Internships Abroad, GRIP Exploring Braga: A Blend of Research and Trad

GRIP: University of Minho Law School

This summer I had the opportunity to conduct legal research in Braga, Portugal, and worked with Minho University’s JustGov center to expand my interests in public policy, international human rights, and international law. One aspect of my experience that I loved was feeling part of the culture of Portugal. Braga is a large, populated city in Portugal, but has a very tight knit, small town feel. I really enjoyed this aspect of the program because the people around me- advisors, professors, students, and people I encountered wherever I went- were very excited to help me and my co-interns feel involved.

In May I was introduced to the city’s annual medieval festival Feira Medieval de Braga, or “Braga Romana”. This festival transports the city back to its historical roots, with streets filled with vendors, artisans, and performers dressed in medieval attire. The entire city center becomes a medieval village, complete with knights, blacksmiths, traditional crafts, and fire dancers creating reenactments of historical events. Locals and visitors gathered to celebrate Braga’s past, with food stalls offering traditional medieval-inspired dishes. Beyond the entertainment, the festival fostered a sense of togetherness, giving me a warm welcome to the city.
I also found the locals to be very kind and patient, especially when it came to helping me navigate their language. I had minimal knowledge of Portuguese before arriving, but since it bears some similarity to Spanish I was able to pick up key phrases. When I was conversing with Uber drivers, professors, or students, I was surprised by how many people wanted to teach me new words. This informal language practice, along with my exposure to the language in everyday life, significantly enriched my experience and made me feel more connected to the culture.
The food was another way that I explored Portuguese life, especially when traveling to other regions. Lisbon and Porto, for example, are known for their seafood, and I had the chance to try dishes like salted cod, fresh octopus, and sardines. Mealtimes were often leisurely and communal, reflecting the very relaxed pace of life in Portugal. Sharing meals with locals was not just about the food, it was also about building relationships and gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of community in Portuguese culture. These cultural experiences helped me feel connected to the city beyond my research, enriching my understanding of how deeply history and tradition are woven into everyday life in Portugal.