The duration of study abroad here was from July 2006-December 2006. Those six months was one of the…read morebest and awesome times in my life. Although going to Europe would have added a more refined experience, I don't regret coming to Rio de Janeiro. I met very cool people and had some very delicious food in Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana. Studying abroad here gave me my first experience being in Rio de Janeiro, and I still regard this area of Brazil as having the most beautiful places in the world.
The food, from the espresso drinks to cheese bread, tasted wonderful, and although Europe could have even better tasting food, Rio de Janeiro doesn't lack it. Jardin is also a beautiful place, and I'm really glad I was able to see the neighborhood.
In regards to my student experience, I felt totally included in the student body. However, I struggled a lot in reading the Portuguese language, that was what attributed to my disappointments with staying in Rio de Janeiro and studying at PUC-Rio. I'd revisit for traveling purposes and come back in a heartbeat if I could.