Bárbara Alano headed to Mexico for one of the most important gastronomy schools in the world
Gastronomy student Bárbara Alano is having every chef’s dream come true: she is studying at Le Cordon Bleu, one of the most important schools in that area around the globe. The opportunity came through the Academic Mobility program. One of PUCRS’ partners, Universidad Anahuac Mayab, has a partnership with the renowned French school.
The School of Health Sciences student arrived in Mexico at the end of December, after being selected for the Santander Universidades mobility program. She is taking classes at the Mexican campus of Le Cordon Bleu. The school was founded in Paris in 1985. Bárbara is expected to return to Brazil at the end of May.
A unique experience
The unique opportunity to go to Le Cordon Bleu is a reason for Bárbara to celebrate. “I never imagined I would be going to one of the best gastronomy and tourism management schools in the world, but here I am, having my dream come true”, she says. Bárbara claims that the study routine is very intense as she does 6-hour long practicum work. “There are no groups in the kitchen. Students work on recipes individually and they are assessed in every class. It is quite demanding. I have to wear a uniform and design a recipe. I’m happy PUCRS helped me a lot and now I can take full advantage of all classes”, she adds.
Bárbara believes she has been growing a lot from this international experience. In her view, this will have positive effects on her professional training. Practicing a different language, learning about the local and world cuisine and meeting students from different countries are some of the benefits that will boost her career. Bárbara is excited about attending the renowned school as she keeps paying the tuition fees at PUCRS, since academic mobility students receive a tuition waiver at the host institution. However, they still must keep their status as PUCRS student.
International training
For professor Dr Rochele de Quadros Rodrigues, who coordinates the Gastronomy program at the University, academic mobility is important for all programs. However, it is especially relevant in gastronomy, as students learn more and develop skills. “It is an area that is influenced by different corners of the world. Not only will international experiences enrich the curriculum but also guarantee the personal growth of students”, she adds.
In addition to promoting academic mobility to its students, PUCRS keeps is doors open to international students from partner institutions for one or two semesters. Find out more on www.pucrs.br/en/study-at-pucrs/academic-mobility/incoming-students/.
