Hello!
As with most introductions, let’s begin with the basics. My name is Vivian Rodrigues Fernandes Lorencatto. I am currently 19 years old and a proud member of the class of 2013 at Duke University. I’m the only American amongst my Brazilian family born in Peoria, Illinois. I have an older sister, a younger sister, and two loving parents. Oh, and I have an adorable Jack Russell called Zoe.
Now for the more complicated.
Despite being born in the U.S., I always struggled in defining myself as American. Yet, calling myself Brazilian never sounded quite right either. Due to my dad’s job, I spent my whole life moving around the world. I have established temporary homes in North America (U.S.), South America (Sao Paulo, Brazil), and Europe (London, England). London was the city I lived in for the longest (7 years), but not long enough for it to feel like home. On top of all these changes, I was constantly exposed to a Brazilian culture at home – a culture that sharply contrasted the International feel present in the three international schools I attended growing up. I think it’s fair to say that my situation calls for a potential identity crisis.
Nevertheless, there are other aspects in my life that help me to accurately define who I am as an individual. In my spare time, I love to be with my family. I am the girl whom can easily trade a night out with friends to watch a Disney classic or laugh over old pictures at home. University has cultivated my never-ending love for Skype. But for the times I am with my friends, I treasure every moment of dancing, talking, and singing obnoxiously loud during car rides. I thoroughly enjoy a good day of shopping and even more, to get ready in the mornings. I am truly a morning person whom cannot sleep past 10 a.m. without feeling guilty. I see thought-provoking movies, novels, and conversations as gems in my everyday life. Including the brightest gem of all: the Baldwin Scholars program. Baldwin has provided me with an opportunity to embrace my true self while also supporting me in my attempts to grow continuously as a stronger, wiser, and inspiring woman. Not to mention that I get to live, talk, and laugh with some of the greatest people on campus. Be jealous.
As for my studies, I'd like to major in History or Public Policy, minor in Spanish, and hopefully receive a certificate in Markets and Management (Ha, we'll see how that goes). I also really hope to get involved in Duke Engage next summer and to study abroad in Madrid during Fall semester of my Junior year. If there is anything that you would like to ask, please feel free to send me an e-mail at viv.lorencatto@duke.edu.