Thinking about studying at the University of La Verne but still have questions about the international experience? Watch our conversation with student Letícia Pereira.
1. Describe in one word what the IBS Americas international program meant to you.
Courage.
2. What motivated you to take a course abroad? How did you find out about this scholarship opportunity?
I was motivated to take a course abroad because it was a unique opportunity for me and my family, as well as out of genuine curiosity to experience an international academic environment, even though I doubted whether I could handle it. I learned about the scholarship opportunity during a lecture given by Professor João at UFV, where I studied Economics. I registered after the lecture and was awarded the scholarship.
3. What is your academic background and what were your expectations for the international program?
My degree is in Economics. When I received the scholarship in 2019, I intended to pursue a career in that field, which is why I initially chose a course in Accounting. However, with the pandemic, I changed my career path and started working in marketing, which motivated me to switch to the Strategic Marketing program.
4. How did you choose the course and university? What were the decisive factors for your choice?
I chose the course at the University of La Verne (ULV) because I met former students who had studied there through IBS programs, and I had always wanted to visit California.
5. What were the main challenges you faced being in another country, with a different language and classmates from various nationalities?
The biggest challenge was handling all the bureaucracy on my own (passport, visa, etc.), since I was the first in my family to have an international experience. IBS provided full support throughout that process. Regarding the language, my English was not perfect, but I learned that effective communication goes beyond fluency. During the exchange, the mutual willingness to learn and communicate made everything easier, as we all faced similar challenges. That environment of vulnerability and mutual support made friendships between people of different nationalities deeper, more natural, and collaborative, an incredible surprise that helped me understand the world’s true scale and reminded me that we are not alone.
6. How do you evaluate the quality of teaching, infrastructure, and resources offered by the university?
The reality exceeded the dream of studying at an American university. The infrastructure at the University of La Verne is amazing and beautiful (just as beautiful as UFV, which I love deeply). I was positively surprised by the quality of teaching and especially by the kindness and charisma of the professors, who were always open and respectful toward our culture. The real value of the experience went beyond the classroom: it was in the collective learning with people, places, and the overall environment.
7. What were the main lessons and skills you developed throughout the course?
The main lesson was understanding that communication goes beyond fluency. What truly matters is connection. If you can make yourself understood and understand the other person, you are already communicating effectively. It’s worth using gestures, courage, and humility to accept that mistakes happen, but what matters is trying.
In addition, the course gave me confidence that I could overcome any challenge. If I was able to study for 20 days in another country and in another language, I could handle whatever comes next. I will carry this certainty, that I can overcome challenges, with me for life.
8. What places did you have the opportunity to visit during your free time?
I traveled alone, but once there, I made amazing connections, and we explored many places together. In just two weekends, I visited Disneyland California, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Las Vegas. I also saw the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, and the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. It was all very special, especially because I celebrated my birthday at Disney, and during the weekend in Las Vegas, I attended a Cirque du Soleil show, which was a lifelong dream. In short, I built unforgettable memories and created bonds that I’ll carry with me forever.
9. How were your experiences in the lectures and company visits?
The lectures were very enriching, especially the one given by Eric McDermott, who presented eight ways for teams to adapt quickly, offering valuable and practical insights.
The visit to Amazon was also remarkable. It was fascinating to observe such a highly technological operation, but at the same time, it was eye-opening to see the inequality and harsh working conditions in the United States. The experience showed that despite technological advancement and high consumption, the work environment can still be dehumanizing and stifle creative freedom. Seeing both sides, progress and its challenges, was an important lesson.
10. Were you able to expand your networking during the course? Could you share a bit about that experience?
Yes, networking was essential. I made friends with classmates from other courses and with different levels of professional experience, ranging from undergraduate students to postdoctoral researchers. This exchange was incredibly rich. I met amazing professionals who also work in finance and startups (like me), as well as others doing great work in marketing. Everyone brought diverse perspectives and experiences that enhanced our learning.
11. How will this international experience impact your career?
The experience positively impacted my career, giving me much more confidence to introduce myself and talk to anyone who doesn’t speak Portuguese. The exchange proved that my English isn’t “that bad” and gave me the courage to make myself understood, even without perfect fluency. It empowered me and removed the fear of putting myself out there in the world.
12. Share with us one short-term professional goal.
My current professional goal is to bring more international marketing insights and updates to my team. Since the exchange, I’ve been making significant progress toward that goal.
13. What advice would you give to students and professionals who want to take a course abroad with IBS Americas?
My advice is simple: just go! The experience is incredible and exceeded all my expectations, even though I had many doubts and fears about going alone to another country. Everything worked out perfectly, and it will be for you too! Connect with others through the WhatsApp groups and take advantage of IBS’s pre-departure meetings to meet people and share tips but leave it to in-person interaction to find your “tribe.” It’s easier to connect with people who share your vibe face-to-face, and the best trips will happen with the right company. Finally, rest assured that IBS has an excellent team and support system to help you every step of the way, even while you’re abroad.
