I found my dream job, serving by day as an academic advisor, internship coordinator, career counselor and study tour coordinator at Illinois’ first public university.
By night, I am a social scientist, Brazilianist and academic entrepreneur on a quest to introduce as many students and faculty from around the world to Brazil as possible.
I was born in Chicago, the son of an orphaned Teamster and an angel of Swedish decent. Under their wings, I developed a natural curiosity about the world and its people. My quest to understand society has been rewarding, but not easy.
I used to be a student shackled by postmodernism, until the day I escaped the classroom and flew to the most exciting country on earth. Immediately upon landing in Rio, I followed the intellectual path of its president and became a sociologist.
I have spent decades covering Brazil – a vast and enigmatic land native to Guarani Indians, founded by Portuguese explorers, developed by Jesuit priests, and described by the French as the eternal country of the future.
I aim to connect professionals with students and faculty around the world who share an interest in how basic human needs for food, shelter and clothing are met through architecture, interior design and urban planning; food, nutrition and dietetics; human development and family relationships; fashion merchandising and design, consumer behavior and entrepreneurship in Brazil and the surrounding region.
I was trained as a percussionist and enjoy the study of fusion. I am inspired by artists, historians and entrepreneurs. I am moved by indigenous rhythms and the synthesis of samba and jazz known as bossa nova, and am known to use digital turntables and controllers to connect with people around the world and play for audiences wherever I go.
I blend a fundamental enthusiasm for the market, high technology and applied science, with an insatiable appetite for lifelong learning and an all-in mentality regarding experiential education and international studies and programs.
If you or someone you know are interested in studying abroad, or doing an internship or professional practice experience in Brazil for credit or no credit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
I invite you to connect on Twitter, network with me on Linked-In, read my blog, or meet me for a cafezinho - tchau!
