Ida-Mari Ravn shares her transformative exchange experience from Norway to Brazil

Ida-Mari Ravn, an ECO_CARE exchange student, has beautifully captured her life-changing journey to Brazil in her latest blog post, "Embracing the Unfamiliar, the Challenges and the Adventure of an Exchange in Brazil." Through her vivid storytelling and captivating imagery, Ida-Mari takes readers on an inspiring adventure that highlights the personal growth, cultural immersion, and academic enrichment she experienced during her exchange in Spring 2025.

In her blog, Ida-Mari reflects on her fascination with the unfamiliar and her love for adventure, which led her from the snowy landscapes of Tromsø, Norway, to the vibrant and sunny streets of Rio de Janeiro. Her exchange journey was not only a leap into a new culture but also a deep dive into the contrasts between her home and Brazil. From the warmth and openness of the Brazilian people to the energetic celebration of Carnaval, Ida-Mari paints a picture of a world full of color, life, and unforgettable moments.

One of the most poignant aspects of her story is her candid reflection on the challenges of navigating a foreign language and culture. Ida-Mari’s experience of struggling to communicate in Portuguese gave her a profound sense of empathy for those who face similar challenges without the privileges and tools she had. This newfound perspective has left a lasting impact on her, shaping her understanding of resilience and adaptability.

Her exchange was centered in Manaus, a city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where she attended the Universidade Federal do Amazonas, uniquely situated within the forest itself. From spotting monkeys outside her classroom to learning about Indigenous cultures and their connections to nature, Ida-Mari’s academic journey was enriched by hands-on experiences and creative projects. Her visit to an Indigenous family along the Urubu River and her journey to the San Blas Islands further deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities worldwide.

Ida-Mari’s blog is accompanied by stunning photographs that bring her journey to life.

For more details and to read Ida-Mari Ravn’s full blog post, visit Ida-Mari Ravn blogpost.