Gustavo is a mechanical engineering student from Brazil who studied English at EC New York for one month, learning at a high intermediate level. Gustavo shared what he likes about EC and living in New York City.
Why are you learning English?
Nowadays, English is essential. Everyone has to know. In college, we have books and lessons in English. I want to come back here because in Brazil we have a program called Science Without Borders and we can study in any country without pay. The government pays for us, and that’s my goal. My sister is living in Ohio with the program.
Why did you choose to live in New York?
My sister came here (EC NY) last year so I didn’t look for any other options. I’m here because of her. She visited me for five days here.
What do you like most about living NY?
I like NY because there are a lot of different nationalities and people from different places. I’ve never been in a place like that. Japanese, Arabians, Chinese… and with English, we can talk to each other. It’s the only way that we have to talk to each other.
What do you like most about EC?
It’s much better than the English schools in Brazil. Here all of you are New Yorkers and real Americans. In class we talk a lot and it’s good because we are used to only writing and reading reading. And listening is different because here we have to hear the word and not translate, but hear the world and understand at the same time.
What advice would you give to someone learning English?
Don’t make friends with your nationality. I did that, and it’s not the best thing to do.
Fun facts about Gustavo:
His favorite food in Brazil is feijoada and his favorite food in New York is Subway. His favorite place in New York City is Top of the Rock.
You can learn English like Gustavo! EC offers English courses in New York to help you improve your English.