The International Perspectives on Aviation spring break study abroad program provided an opportunity for 23 Buckeyes to explore Brazil’s key aviation sector for a week in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
“Understanding aviation concepts in a different setting truly opened my eyes to the beauty and uniqueness of the world. I saw how the landscape and climate influence operations, as well as the impact of governmental and military influences,” remarked aviation major Dianna Désir. “The exposure to Brazilian culture allowed me to find both similarities and differences that kept me eager to discover more.”
Organized by the Center for Aviation Studies in the College of Engineering and led by Matt Dreher and Adam Beckman, the program is part of a semester length course that focuses on broadening student’s global understanding of aviation. Beyond industry visits, students also gained insight into the culture, customs and complexities of Brazil’s aviation ecosystem, making the experience a truly global experience.
“Studying abroad has always been an important goal of mine. I think that studying abroad is one of the best ways to learn and grow. Immersing yourself in another culture from an education standpoint allows you to gain perspective of your place in the world and grow to be open to new experiences,” reflected Lindsey Tima, an aviation major. “Going to Brazil was everything I dreamed it would be and more! I feel the experience and the perspective I gained from my study abroad is irreplicable.”
The Brazil Gateway supported the program with local connections and scheduling visits, such as Embraer, the world-renowned aircraft manufacturer, and the Technological Institute of Aeronautics (ITA), one of Brazil’s most prestigious aviation schools. Students also networked with Gol Airlines, Lider Aviacao, a private aviation company, and the United Airlines Maintenance Facility at Rio’s Tom Jobim Airport.
“Our experience in Brazil was wonderful from start to finish, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the Brazil Gateway. They were instrumental in helping us secure site visits, offering travel recommendations, and sorting through logistics—making the trip both successful and truly impactful for our students. We truly couldn't have done it without the Gateway's assistance," Dreher reflected.
Air transportation major Matthew Swearingen learned that he’s able to adapt.
“Getting an up-close look of the aviation industry was incredible. I really enjoyed touring the facilities that operate in various divisions of the aviation industry. I learned that I adapt to new environments very well and know what I need to do to advocate for myself. It's important to be a global citizen so you form a better understanding of people's identities, values, and ways of life,” Swearingen noted.
Désir, who also studied abroad on the 2024 International Perspectives of Aviation program in Spain and France, compared the cultures, languages and environment of all the countries she’s studied in.
“Both experiences were truly life changing. While the structure and drive within the aviation field vary slightly between the regions, it was eye-opening to explore their historical contexts. Each visit impacted me differently, shaped by language and climate,” Désir remarked.
Tima observed how the experience brought her values into perspective and discerned how people are all connected.
“Being abroad I remembered how much I value playfulness in my connections. Because we are constantly networking in a formal fashion, we forget that humans are playful and full of light. Being in Brazil with my classmates helped me remember that. It was also a great way to zoom out and find that I am just one person in a big world full of people. And in a big world of people, we are all differently the same. I realized how much I value seeing how different cultures connect. It’s magnificent,” Tima explained.
