During my rst semester of my third year of college, I went to the library at the nearest shopping mall; upon reaching

the Architecture and Urban Planning section I decided I would deepen my knowledge on Urban Planning. Its reading covered every aspect of urban planning and its design since the denition of urban design, the evolution of the urban form to the urban structure of modern and utopian cities and I was impressed by the breadth of offerings a book could offer me on such a! complex subject. As I read, I became more and more interested in what I could do if I became an urban planner. After an exhaustive research on the internet, I came to the conclusion that the best option for me to become an urban planner and designer was to study abroad - especially in the USA, where the Urban Planning program is far more developed than it is here. !! !Studying abroad is an unique experience especially for someone who aims to have a differential on their career in Brazil such as me. This! country has been through an impressive growth on its economy, academic and scientic elds. Nevertheless, it is far behind its true potential. By this international academic exchange program and with international collaborations as well as networks, Brazil will be able to reach academic and scientic standards found in countries such as the United States. ! !! !My reasons for transferring are equally academic and cultural; I feel as if I had been preparing myself for an experience such as this for the longest time.! I have been studying English for the past nine years and it is something I have always been truly passionate about. I strongly believe that the involvement with the Science without Borders program will enhance my communication skills in many backgrounds. For instance, even though I already speak and write prociently in English, I will gain the necessary uency on an Academic level. This rich knowledge will give support for a productive career. ! I have always been deeply immersed on the American culture and for the rst time I would be able to experience it rst hand. Studying in the USA would be a very fullling and unique experience for me; it would great satisfy all my desires and I would be able to to pursue my goals. I already deal with this experience as essential for my personal and intellectual growth. ! !! !Undoubtedly being a part of the program would benet my career and would also aid my university to nd ways to implement what I have brought from my year abroad on their curriculum; I would be really glad and honored to share my knowledge with my

colleagues. In Brazil, there is a clear distinction between Urban Design and Urban Planning - which should not exist. By being a part of the program, I intend to eliminate these differences. Both are equally important, complex and essential sciences for making possible to cities to function correctly.