From Brazil to ESL Academy to MBA: meet Gabrielle

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Have you ever imagined you could travel to study a new language abroad and end up staying until your Graduation prom? Brazilian student Gabrielle Mattioda only intended to take an english course in Colorado but now she is up there among the best, studying at a world-class business school in the US.

It seems that immersion in a quality English language program, in a top-ranked business school and thriving business community formed the perfect combination for Gabrielle. Check out her interview!

 

Why did you want to enroll in the University of Colorado Denver and in this ESL Academy?

The idea of ​​studying in the U.S. came during my career transition process; my goal was to improve my English, which has become essential to be successful in my new area. At first, the idea was just to improve my English to better help position myself in the business environment, but later on I decided to extend my plans to do the MBA (Business).  I was already studying English in another school when I saw that the University of Colorado Denver had started an ESL program. I knew the great reputation of CU Denver from friends in the area.

GabrielleImage 1 - Brazilian student G. Mattioda: ESL Academy to MBA

The ESL Academy has a very interesting combination of learning academic English by being exposed to situations /materials that are common to Americans during their academic lives. In the Executive MBA program, we learn how to connect each course to situations that we deal with inside and outside the companies on a daily basis and to think strategically.

Why do you think it’s important to have a global education and a better understanding of another country?

We live in a truly global community these days, and the more we can understand and embrace these changes by pursuing a second language and actually learning to adjust to a new culture the better positioned we will be in the marketplace.

Describe your most memorable learning experience.

While getting my MBA, I took a high-level economics course where out of 34 students I placed in the top 5 in the class. As an international student this was a huge accomplishment for me and I was recognized amongst my peers.

What cultural events and recreation do you enjoy in Denver and in Colorado?

Horseback riding, watching plays, and shopping.

A turma da GabrielleImage 2 - Brazilian students from BSMP group celebrate ESL Academy graduation

What do your friends and family think about your studying in America - do you think they are proud of your accomplishments?
They think that this was a great opportunity for me to grow as a person and also professionally. They are very proud that I have been completing successfully all my courses.

What advice would you give to other international students who are considering studies at the University of Colorado Denver and in the U.S.?

Choose the program/course and city that best fit your needs. Learn how to deal with diversity and do not give up when the obstacles arise.

Update: Gabrielle has graduated and is pursuing career options that include OPT (Optional Practical Training), which provides work authorization for international students to stay and work in the U.S. for another 12 months after graduation.

“I worked for IBM in Brazil and now I’d like to experience working in a company in America to learn more about the differences in the workplace environment and culture", Gabrielle concluded.


Source: University of Colorado, Denver