Representatives from Fort Hays State University (FHSU), a public university located in Kansas, United States, visited Brasília to present opportunities for undergraduate studies and international careers. The meeting featured Philip Wittkorn, Director of Global Partnerships, and Haley Williams, Director of International Student Services.

The workshop was hosted by Hayek Global College, an international college based in Brasília and a partner of FHSU in the American College program—a dual-degree undergraduate program between Brazil and the United States. The 2+2 model allows students to begin their studies in Brazil, completing the first two years with an American curriculum taught entirely in English, and finish their degree at partner universities in the United States. These institutions include George Mason University, Cumberland University, Clark University, SUNY Alfred State, and Fort Hays State University. Upon completion, students earn a bachelor’s degree in fields such as Computer Science, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Marketing, International Relations, and Business.

“Hayek is globalizing access to international education, allowing students to expand their perspectives. In addition to reducing initial costs and easing cultural adaptation, starting a degree in Brazil offers an important advantage: students arrive in the United States better academically prepared, fluent in English, and familiar with the American education system—factors that enhance performance and confidence throughout their international journey,” highlights Haley Williams. She also emphasized FHSU’s international environment, which hosts students from over 40 countries, including Brazil.

Pathway to Medicine in the United States
During the event, representatives detailed the pathway for students who wish to pursue a medical career in the United States. Unlike in Brazil, where students enter medical school directly after high school, in the U.S. students must first complete an undergraduate degree, typically in fields such as Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. During this time, they take pre-med courses, which include essential subjects such as general and organic chemistry, genetics, cell biology, and physics.

Only after completing this stage can candidates apply to medical school, which is considered a graduate-level program. On average, the path to becoming a physician takes about eight years: four years of undergraduate study and four years of medical school, in addition to mandatory residency training.

Another key requirement is the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam that assesses scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and writing skills. A strong performance on this exam is crucial for admission to top medical schools in the country.

According to Philip Wittkorn, Fort Hays offers structured support throughout this entire process. “We have a program designed to prepare students from the undergraduate level. Our advisors guide them on course selection, prerequisites, and the profile expected by medical schools, as well as assist with MCAT preparation,” he explains.

In this context, starting the journey in Brazil becomes a competitive advantage for Brazilian students. “By beginning at Hayek, students enter the American academic system early, develop technical English proficiency, and build a strong foundation to compete for spots at universities and medical schools in the United States. This initiative reinforces the internationalization of higher education and expands opportunities for Brazilian students who aim to build a global career, especially in high-demand fields such as healthcare,” Wittkorn concludes.