The larger personal space that Dutch people have, is something Raida (pronounced like 'Haida') is slowly getting used to. 'In Brazil, when we have a conversation, we touch each other all the time. I found out that here people are not used to that, and that feels a little cold,' she explains sadly, but adds rapidly: 'Nevertheless, it gave me a powerful tool to find my way in an overcrowded bar or supermarket: just touch and people will jump aside'. She laughs.
When meeting people, her initial reaction is to kiss, but she learned to hold herself back. The new tactic is: watching and adapt to what the other person does. Also greeting from a distance was a new learning experience. 'When I ride a bicycle and see someone I know, I enthusiastically wave my hand. But my housemates told me that was 'too happy'. The way to do it is like this.' She puts on a cool face and loosely lightly lifts her arm, showing two fingers.' But her cool face rapidly makes place for laughter.
Her job in the OPM lab is to make a report on two design software packets called Tech Optimiser and Acclaro. The report will be used in a course on computer design. Teaching is what she actually aspires to. Hopefully a PhD after this and then a university professorship. Unfortunately her job leaves her in front of a monitor most of the time. But Raida sees a positive point even in this, joking: 'I work alone, so I don't need to greet people all the time!" And another laugh fills the room.'
Raida de Jesus Silva
