With an unprecedented program, Brazilian students will be able to complete their undergraduate studies in person in the United States
Alfred State University is one of the partners of Hayek Global College, an international business and technology college based in Brasília.
The university is part of the State University of New York (SUNY), the largest university system in the United States, with 64 campuses spread across New York State.
Founded in 1908, Alfred State is a public institution located near Buffalo, in the state of New York. Known for its focus on technology, the university attracts students from all over the world who seek a place in the dynamic North American IT market, with an employment rate close to 100%. The U.S. News & World Report ranks the institution among the best universities in the United States.
Alfred State offers more than 80 programs in areas such as agriculture, health, technology, architecture, engineering, business, and sciences. Students study in state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, focusing on project-based, real-world learning.
Alfred State University Campus.
The unprecedented partnership with Brazil will allow Hayek Global College students, starting in their second year, to transfer their credits and complete their studies in person at Alfred State. "Creating a bridge that connects Brazilian students to the best universities abroad is one of Hayek’s goals. Our college offers a dual degree undergraduate program: the American College. In this program, students study in Brazil for two years and then continue to a partner university in the U.S. to complete their bachelor’s degree in courses such as Computer Science, Business Administration, and Economics," explains Edson Agatti, Executive Director of Hayek Global College. This program, called 2+2, includes Alfred State as one of the opportunities for an international career.
"We are excited to welcome more Brazilian students to our campus. We were looking for a creative way to strengthen this mobility from Brazil to New York, and I believe this partnership will make it possible," said Melissa Holland, Director of International Affairs at Alfred State, during her visit to the Hayek Global College facilities in Brasília. She is responsible for leading and managing international student recruitment, admissions, and exchange initiatives at the American institution.
And the benefits of studying at Alfred State are vast. In addition to obtaining a globally recognized qualification, building an international network, and having access to cutting-edge technology, the institution offers active learning methodologies based on projects. "We are recognized for our hands-on approach. For example, our students recently participated in a national Hackathon, where they competed in cybersecurity activities. Alfred State students were champions, defeating teams from other renowned universities, such as Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)," shares Melissa.
Courses in areas such as cybersecurity, engineering, architecture, digital media, and animation are among the institution's highlights. "We want our students to be entrepreneurs, leaders, and ready for the job market. Moreover, we have an excellent support program, with specialized orientation for international students, including assistance from airport arrival to adaptation to the language, culture, and emotional well-being. The entire support process is handled with great care until everyone feels adjusted," she details.
Melissa Holland, Director of Affairs at Alfred State, at the inauguration ceremony of the American College.
To make the most of the experience, the international director advises students to be open to new things and willing to get involved as much as possible. "This is the key to gaining more than just an education in the United States. I’m sure a Brazilian student can obtain an excellent education in Brazil. But through this opportunity offered by Hayek, they not only get that education but also the chance to experience other cultures and face new challenges. Students learn much more when they step out of their comfort zone. It’s these experiences that open doors and offer better opportunities for personal growth and work. This hands-on, multicultural experience outside the classroom, in my opinion, is where the true value lies. That’s one of the greatest benefits of pursuing an international undergraduate degree," concludes Melissa Holland.
Check out Melissa's speech during the inauguration ceremony of the American College at Hayek’s headquarters in Brasília: