Suzana, originally from Curitiba, Brazil, studied business administration and worked as a secretary before she came to the United States. Before that, she also participated in a volunteer service in Chile, where she became proficient in Spanish language as well.
Suzana initially traveled to the US just one month before the pandemic hit. At first, she only intended to visit the US, with plans to scope out the educational system and its opportunities. Since the pandemic brought forth many travel lockdowns, Suzana had to stay in the country.
Although her previous studies were in administration, she discovered her real passion in the field of aviation. “A friend in Brazil invited me to go to a pilot reunion,” she said. “I met a girl who was a flight attendant and wanted to be a pilot. We had a good talk and it got more interesting to me,” she said. Suzana searched aviation programs in Brazil and the US, and ultimately decided that the opportunities would be better for her in America.
“I always want to help people with what I do,” she said. “One day I was in the airport and I saw pilots walking and thought to myself, ‘if it weren’t for pilots, I wouldn’t be able to come to the United States.’” Suzana realized that in becoming a pilot, she could make a difference in the lives of other people. “They help people to accomplish their dreams in life.”
She began her English language journey in the US with hopes of attending an aviation school. However, she encountered difficulties in that journey. Everything was either shut down, closed, or remote during the pandemic. “I was stuck inside my room and I tried to study with the resources I had by myself,” Suzana said. It was hard for her to progress while being so isolated.
Since transferring to MLC, she has found comfort in the interpersonal dynamic of the school. “I feel comfortable here because you can get to know everyone,” she said. “The teachers, they connect to us. They are our friends. They give great feedback and are very honest.” Suzana has made strides in her English journey and getting involved in the MLC community. “I feel very connected here,” she said.
Outside of the classroom, Suzana’s hobbies include boating on the many lakes of Michigan, going on runs in the park, and appreciating nature. She enjoys how intertwined the city of Ann Arbor is with nature.
Suzana’s goal with learning English is to become a pilot so she can help people, just as the people in her life and the community at MLC have helped her.
