Internationalmatt's Blog

Celebration for Thiago’s Successful Completion of his PHD

Yesterday was a bookend day for me. I enjoyed spending the day with my friends Thai and Thuy at new student enrollment at UNL. It was great to see them begin their higher education journey. My day ended with joining my friend Thiago from Brazil, his wife Gabriella and friends for a dinner to celebrate Thiago’s successful defense of his Doctoral Dissertation and thus completion of his PHD.

My friend Thiago

It has been a big year so far for Thiago. His wife Gabriella gave birth to their first baby Giovanna and now he has completed his PHD. It has been my privilege to attend the baby shower for Giovanna in the winter, visit Gabriella, Thiago and Giovanna in the hospital and pray with them after Giovanna was born, and to share in the celebration dinner. I am proud of Thiago and confident he will be successful in the future because of his determination and ability, but even more because of his trust in God.

Thiago with Gabriella and Giovanna

It has impressed me how Gabriella and Thiago have both reached out to other students from many countries as well as Brazil. I saw friends from Brazil, Congo, Poland, Nepal, Sudan, Vietnam and the U.S at the dinner.

with his American "mom" Linda

me with Thiago

Thiago was able to celebrate with family. His wonderful wife Gabriella and beautiful baby girl Giovanna were there. His brother Thiciano was there too.

Thiago with his brother Thiciano

Congratulations Thiago!! God Bless you and your family   I am confident God will continue to guide you.

June 22, 2011 - Posted by internationalmatt | Brazilian friends, Education, Experiences of international friends, International Friendships, international students, Internationals