Brazilian scholar praises our global outlook

Raíza Ponticelli studied for a Masters in American Literature as part of her Women of the Future scholarship and is eager to put what she learnt at Essex into practise.

She now hopes to study for a PhD in American Literature and become an academic with expertise in Latin American Literature.

“Although many English professors have expertise in Caribbean literature and Latin American literature, it would be great to have more native researchers because we can add a special touch,” said Raíza, who is from Brazil.

At Essex Raíza felt she had joined an international community which would support her studies every step of the way.

“What impressed me the most was the University's organisation and how everything works as it is supposed to work and staff are always willing to help.”

Raíza was one of 30 women on the scholarship scheme which helps to equip and inspire women from around the world.

She decided to apply to Essex because of its dedication to international students and scholarships.

“I chose the American Literature Masters at Essex because it is one of the few UK universities to have a programme focused on the literature of both Americas and the faculty is great. My supervisor, Sean Seeger, has a PhD in Caribbean literature but his knowledge about other literature is vast.”

Now on her way to become an academic herself, Raíza is grateful for her chance to be a student at Essex thanks to the Women of the Future scholarship.

“Essex was one of the few UK universities to grant scholarships to international students. In a time of Brexit, this proves that Essex is a university for literally everybody, regardless of your economic, social, religious background."

Read about our other Women of the Future Scholars Marina Lucic, Annalivia Polselli and Rebeca Nader López.