Mariana Queiroz Miranda

What is your favorite campus tradition?
My favorite campus tradition is Football Fridays. I love seeing alums and other visitors from all around the world come together to celebrate the Fighting Irish. The energy of the campus completely changes and excites everyone on campus. It also reminds me what a special place Notre Dame is and how lucky I am to study in such an amazing university.

What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the table facing the dome on the 10th floor of the Hesburgh Library. There is a pretty incredible view of the dome and the north quad.

What is your best Notre Dame memory?
My best Notre Dame memory is staying at the dining hall until it closes. Believe it or not, the dining hall is a great place to have conversations and grow closer to your friends!

What is your favorite Dining Hall Meal?
Pasta stir fry for sure!

What is your favorite thing about dorm life?
My favorite thing about the dorm life is the community and the support. Flaherty has given me the opportunity to meet people from different places and backgrounds that I wouldn't have had otherwise.

What clubs/activities are you involved in?
I am involved in Student International Business Council (SIBC), and Flaherty’s Robinson Community initiative.

What made you choose Notre Dame?
I chose Notre Dame for two main reasons. First, the community; when I visited campus with my family and then for HISE, I immediately felt very welcomed by everyone. Second, the commitment to form global citizens who contribute to their local communities and the world.

What is your favorite part about being an international student at Notre Dame?
I love how curious and interested people are in getting to know more about your culture and heritage. I have had some great conversations throughout my last year as we bring a different perspective from our diverse background.

How did you adjust to life on campus?
It was actually really easy! I had a lot of support from my dorm and my friends, specially the Latino community. I immediately felt at home.

How do you celebrate your culture/heritage at ND?
I usually get together with my best friend to make a traditional sweet from Brazil, the brigadeiros. It is a great way to celebrate our culture and share it with our friends!

What advice do you have for international students?
My advice to international students is to keep an open mind. Don’t limit yourself to the international student’s community. Make new friends and take advantage of all of the opportunities that Notre Dame has to offer. And, most importantly, get ready to have the best four years of your life!