When I first came to Oregon in 2016, I quickly found myself amazed by the beauty of its outdoors. For someone like me, who enjoys nature and being active, having access to a number of outdoors activities is essential. Hikes near Portland, snowshoe adventures at Crater Lake and Mt Hood, fishing and camping by stunning lakes, helped me manage the stress of a year-long search for a job.
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Born in Brazil, a country with a strong soccer culture, I consider myself fortunate to have landed in Portland - the home to the most vibrant fans in American soccer. The stadium brings me memories from the energy of South American life, and I embraced the ritual of rooting for the Portland Timbers with face paintings at every game, and a permanent tattoo.
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I LOVE the long summer days when friends get together for BBQ and fun events. However, I had to look for ways to keep my Brazilian upbeat personality alive during the rainy season and short winter days. I discovered beauty and inspiration in aerial classes, where I improve my core and upper body strength, while nourishing my soul.
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Even though I am surrounded by an amazingly supportive group of friends in Portland, there is still struggle. Living in the U.S. was not my first experience abroad. For one year I studied English language in Australia, where a significant part of the population was born overseas. I was just one of them, like so many immigrants around me. In Portland, I am different and felt isolated many times.
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It takes time to adapt to a new environment, learn a second language, and absorb elements of a new culture. It would make things a bit easier if I didn't have the feeling that I have to prove my value all the time.