Brasília, February, 2010 – This month 20 Brazilian university students are in the US for the third edition of the USA Study Program for Student Leaders at the University of Tennessee. The five-week program is an initiative of the US State Department and the US Embassy in Brazil. From January 22nd to February 28th, the participants in the program are blogging about their experiences in the United States as "Youth Leaders 2010.” Blog site: http://studentleaders-bra.blogspot.com/
The program aims to provide participants with an opportunity for cultural immersion and a chance to learn more about the United States, while at the same time strengthening their leadership skills in Brazil. “Our goal is to improve dialogue between Americans and Brazilians and we are constantly looking for current and future leaders from both countries to bring them together to share best practices and lead the way towards a better future,” explains the Cultural Attaché at the US Embassy, Jean Manes.
The youths taking part in the program come from nine Brazilian States: Alagoas, the Federal District, Minas Gerais, Paraíba, Paraná, Pernambuco, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Rio Grande do Sul. All their expenses will be paid during their stay in the USA. Those selected will attend courses in American culture and history and will also take part in community work in the USA. In addition, they will visit Washington D.C. and other cities as part of the exchange.