Author Archives: Cat Cereja

My experiences in Italy and Brazil have deepened my understanding of cultural exchange and sustainable practices. Initially, my Capstone was going to be a cookbook, inspired by the rich culinary traditions I encountered. However, as I spent more time in these communities, I realized that food is just one part of a much larger culturalContinue reading “Looking Back”

As I wrap up my summer project, I’m reflecting on an experience that has been both transformative and eye-opening. Immersing myself in the local agrarian traditions of Italy has provided invaluable insights into the cultural and practical aspects of farming. Working closely with local farmers and participating in their daily routines has broadened my understandingContinue reading “Recapping my Experience”

Creating a map of the spaces I inhabit on a daily or weekly basis would illustrate a blend of both routine and dynamic environments. On a typical day, my map would feature several key locations: Comparing this to my spheres from before I started my experience, several changes are evident: Overall, the evolution of myContinue reading “Mapping My Experience”

I come from a tight-knit community that deeply values solidarity and mutual support. Growing up here, I’ve experienced firsthand how we come together in times of need, reinforcing our bonds and collective responsibility. This sense of community is evident in how we collaborate to address challenges, such as stopping wildfires and maintaining open communication throughContinue reading “Community at Fazenda Serrinha”

Solidarity in my community shines through during tough times. During COVID-19, we came together to prepare and distribute “cestas básicas” (basic food baskets) to help lower-income families. This ensured everyone had access to essential items despite the pandemic’s challenges. We also face issues like wildfires, and because it’s hard for fire trucks to reach ourContinue reading “Solidarity in Serrinha”

I arrived in Brazil this week and got to see some of my family that lives here, which has been an amazing experience! We started off my trip to Brazil by celebrating a Festa Junina (which is a June Festival) that celebrates caipira culture and honors Saint John. Its a festival full of traditional BrazilianContinue reading “Arrival in Brazil!”

Hello lovely readers! Sorry for the long wait but so much has been happening in the last couple of weeks and I was just trying to enjoy every second! After attending the Festa dei Ceri in Gubbio, Umbria, I worked on the farm at La Cuccagna for a couple of more days before heading toContinue reading “Italy Recap!”

I have just completed my first week in Italy and I couldn’t be happier! I spent my first day in Rome visiting some friends and managed to make it all the way to my experience with my limited Italian (2 metros, 2 trains, and 3 and half hours later I was in Umbria!). The workContinue reading “Volunteering at La Cuccagna!”

Hello Everybody! My name is Catarina Cereja and I am currently a second-year student at Florida State pursuing a dual degree in International Affairs and Political Science. I currently live in West Palm Beach but I grew up in New York City, São Paulo, and London. This summer I will be traveling to Italy andContinue reading “Hi! I’m Cat!”