Surviving at EBAPE

EBAPE Survival Guide: Everything I Wish I’d Known During My First Semester

A senior student trying to make life easier for newcomers

If you’re reading this, congratulations. The college entrance exams are over. That phase when your life revolved around tests, cutoff scores, practice exams, and the question “Will I get in?” is finally behind you. Now you’re here, at EBAPE, one of the best business schools in Brazil. And even though it might not feel real yet, this is a huge achievement. From now on, a completely different phase of your life begins—one filled with great things, the occasional meltdown, constant learning, and stories you’ll likely be telling for many years to come.

I’ve been at EBAPE for a year now, and I can assure you that, despite all the complaints, struggles, and doubts we have, the truth is that we love being here. EBAPE is intense. It demands a lot, takes up a good part of your days, and constantly tests your organizational skills, adaptability, and patience. But at the same time, it offers opportunities, incredible people, and experiences that make it all worthwhile.

At first, it’s normal to feel like everything is too overwhelming. College, the courses, the people, the expectations. It seems like everyone knows exactly what they’re doing, while you’re still trying to figure out how the system works, where the classrooms are, and why everyone is walking so fast down the hallways. Feeling a little lost is part of the process. No one arrives here knowing everything, even if some people pretend very well that they do. So don’t worry—you’ll learn to handle intimidating programming languages and massive reading assignments for the next day.

In this context, you’ll realize that EBAPE is, indeed, a competitive environment. You’ll be surrounded by very intelligent, dedicated, and ambitious people. At some point, inevitably, you’ll start comparing yourself to them. You’ll feel like you’re falling behind, that you’re not performing well enough, or that you’ve chosen the wrong path. This happens to practically everyone, even those who seem to always be in control. The most important thing is to remember that everyone has their own pace, their own priorities, and their own story. Excessive comparison only gets in the way and doesn’t define anyone; when it creeps in, take a breath, distract yourself, and get back on track!

Speaking of taking a break, one of the best things about EBAPE is the people you meet here. Friendships form very deeply—perhaps because everyone spends so much time together, perhaps because the program requires collaboration, or perhaps because daily interaction creates strong bonds quickly. Don’t shut yourself off. Talk to people in your class and in other classes, participate in activities, and accept invitations—even when you’re feeling a little lazy. EBAPE has students from various states—and countries—so take the opportunity to learn more about other worlds. The friends you make here are often one of the most valuable parts of the college experience.

Student organizations play a huge role in this process. They’re places where you learn a lot through hands-on experience, discover what you like—or don’t like—to do in business administration, meet people from different years and majors, and even rack up those much-desired extracurricular hours. It’s common to feel lost at first, unsure of which club to choose or whether you’ll actually join one right away. But don’t worry! The first two years at EBAPE are meant for you to explore as many options as you can. At the beginning of the year, there are usually club presentations, which are very helpful. If that doesn’t happen, it’s worth finding someone who’s already involved, talking to them, getting a feel for the routine, and making a decision without rushing. And yes, everyone will try to convince you that their organization is the best. That’s just part of it. As for whether you should join a student organization right in your first semester, I’d say: go for it! It’s one of the best ways to socialize and adapt to college life. Choose one that’s not too demanding and take on the challenge. I, for example, joined the Student Government, and it was great for my personal growth; I have zero regrets.

Throughout your undergraduate studies, you’ll also interact with various administrative departments, such as the Academic Support Center, the Internship and Career Development Center, International Relations, the Academic Coordination Office, the Classroom Services Center, and the Student Government’s Administrative Office. All of these departments exist to help students, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you need assistance. An important tip is to try to resolve issues first with the Student Council, which is usually more accessible and can provide guidance or address problems with greater attention.

Many people choose EBAPE with study abroad in mind, and it’s no coincidence. The opportunity to study abroad is one of the program’s major advantages. But it’s important to manage expectations early on. Anyone can apply for an exchange program, but spots are limited, and selection is based on CR—the simple average of grades in all completed courses. This isn’t a reason to panic, but it is an incentive to take college seriously from the start and establish a minimally consistent study routine. If you’re a scholarship recipient, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to save up some extra money to help cover those months abroad; explore them. By the way, upperclassmen are great for all kinds of tips and answers to questions about exchange program options and the application process.

Speaking of routines, it’s worth noting: EBAPE doesn’t usually go easy on you. It’s common to have several exams in the same week, in addition to assignments and activities that pile up over the course of the quarter. And yes, EBAPE operates on a quarterly system; this speeds everything up. So, organization isn’t just a plus here—it’s a necessity. Jotting down deadlines, planning ahead, and avoiding leaving everything until the end of the quarter can save your sanity. The last few weeks tend to be especially grueling, so the less work you have piled up, the better.

In this context, the EBAPE building also quickly becomes part of your life. Unlike other FGV programs, EBAPE has its own dedicated building, which ends up limiting daily contact with students from other programs to some extent. The building is modern and has four floors. The basement houses the student association rooms and lockers, which require a key. On the ground floor, there are a few classrooms, the lab, the Student Council Store, and a small break room. On the first floor are more classrooms, the program office and the Student Affairs Office (RI), small group study rooms, and the famous cubicles, which, in practice, function more as meeting and socializing spots than as study spaces. The second floor is reserved for faculty, and students do not have access. An important reminder, which can never be emphasized enough: EBAPE is cold. Very cold. Bringing a coat is a matter of survival.

When it comes to study spaces, there’s no shortage of options. In addition to the tables inside EBAPE itself, there are the cubicles—which are free to use on a first-come, first-served basis—and the study rooms, which require picking up a key at the Room Center, right past the turnstile. Each student can use these rooms for up to three hours a day, also on a first-come, first-served basis, and they’re ideal for those who need more quiet or like to study in groups. At FGV headquarters—as we usually call the main building—there are more study rooms, which are also available on a first-come, first-served basis, and a library on the seventh floor, which, by the way, has a beautiful view. The Cultural Center also has a library, located on the ground floor, as well as more individual and group study rooms; for the group rooms, you’ll need to reserve a spot or pick up a key at the library. During exam periods, these rooms are in high demand, so I recommend being proactive. Both libraries are extremely quiet and great for studying, but you’re required to leave your bag in a locker before entering, taking only the necessary materials with you.

Most EBAPE classes are full-time, typically from 9:20 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. That’s why eating well is essential. Never skip lunch. The college has a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator and microwave for those who prefer to bring food from home. For those who like to eat out, there are several options nearby, such as Sapore, which is located at the main campus, as well as restaurants like Sotero, Garagem, Broz, and Hortifruti.

Oh, and here’s something important! Electives, study abroad programs, and some first-year classes will be taught in English. Although some students manage just fine, if you don’t speak the language yet, I recommend you get on it while there’s still time. In fact, this is almost a basic skill in today’s job market, so sooner or later you’ll need to speak English.

Another important point—which many people overlook at first—is the supplementary hours. To graduate, you must complete 240 hours, which can be earned by participating in lectures, events, student organizations, and projects. Ideally, you should take care of this by the end of your second year. After that, your focus naturally shifts to study abroad programs, internships, electives, and, later on, your final thesis. Leaving everything until the last minute only makes the process more stressful.

Speaking of internships and the job market, it’s good to keep your feet on the ground. EBAPE opens many doors, but it doesn’t guarantee automatic success. Throughout the program, you’ll hear a lot about careers, the financial market, consulting, large companies, and brilliant career paths. It’s important to explore, test your interests, and understand what makes sense for you, without falling into the trap of thinking there’s only one right path. College offers tools—in fact, the best ones—but the choices are yours.

At the end of the day, those four years go by quickly—much faster than it seems right now. So, take advantage of opportunities, build relationships, learn from your mistakes, and don’t let college become a bigger burden than it needs to be. EBAPE is demanding, but it also delivers. It’s up to you to find the balance between pushing yourself, allowing yourself to make mistakes, and enjoying the process.

Welcome. Enjoy the journey.