How Global Launch’s English Language Program helped ASU student thrive in film school

When Kevin Alves Bernardes was deciding between music and film for college, his dad offered a piece of advice that changed his path: "Why don’t you study film and media production?"

At that moment, Alves Bernardes connected the dots. His passion for music, community and storytelling aligned perfectly with audiovisual production. He found his calling and began his search for the best place to grow his skills.

Searching for the right learning community

Studying abroad was nothing new for Alves Bernardes. He grew up in Brazil and had an opportunity in high school to study at a vocal institute in Denmark. But choosing a college in the U.S. was about finding a community that felt like home.

ASU’s experiential-based learning environment gave him the freedom to express himself. He ultimately chose to study Film and Media Production at the Sidney Poitier New American Film School.

"In high school, I lacked interest in a lot of subjects and struggled in rigid environments. I like to get out of my chair, talk to people, create art and bring people together. ASU allowed me the opportunity to do something I really loved. I even graduated with all A’s in my program because I enjoyed what I was studying."

Preparing for ASU with the help of Global Launch

Starting an undergraduate degree in a new country is no easy task. Before beginning his film studies, Alves Bernardes enrolled in the English Language Program at Global Launch, a full cultural and academic immersion program designed to help international students prepare for life at ASU.

Given the flexibility between immersive campus or online study, Alves Bernardes opted for campus learning. In the summer of 2019, he moved to Tempe, Arizona, where he gained confidence in his English skills, made friends and adapted to life in the United States. Choosing to live on campus for two months before starting his undergraduate degree gave him the confidence he needed to start his university-level coursework.

"I could’ve taken a test or an online class instead, but I learn better in an immersive environment where I can interact with new friends outside the classroom. None of my classmates at Global Launch spoke my home languages of Portuguese or Italian, so I quickly realized: ‘I better speak English if I want to have fun and make friends!’"

Global Launch provided more than language skills; it fostered meaningful connections. Whether playing chess, participating in activities or simply chatting with peers from Vietnam, Saudi Arabia or Spain, Alves Bernardes strengthened his communication skills and built lifelong friendships. One of the teachers he remembers the most is Senior Global Educator Jessica Cinco, who helped him refine his English pronunciation, particularly the tricky English "th" sound.

Experiencing on-campus employment opportunities

Alves Bernardes had such a great experience at Global Launch that he worked there for four years as a student employee after completing the English Language Program. As a Global Launch Connect Activities Assistant, he helped organize events that support new ASU international students. Some of his favorite activities he supported included traveling to the Grand Canyon, hiking at A Mountain, hosting karaoke nights and bonding through music and games.

The Student Services staff supported him when he was a Global Launch student, so he wanted to give back after completing his English program “Global Launch staff gave me emotional support and helped me when I needed it most. They helped me secure my on-campus housing and feel comfortable when I arrived in Arizona [...] Global Launch was more than just a job or a place to take English classes; it was a family," he shared.

Celebrating achievements at ASU

In December 2024, Alves Bernardes graduated from ASU with a bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Production. Soon after, he landed a full-time job as an Audio Production Assistant at Redemption Church in Tempe.

Through his work, he hopes to create meaningful media that promotes faith, family unity and positive impact.

"Moving abroad to the U.S. made me independent so much faster than if I had stayed in Brazil. It’s been challenging, but it’s a priceless experience that made me stronger and more prepared for the future."

He encourages future Global Launch students to be brave and take the first step in building connections. The college experience involves academics, of course, but also developing friendships and making a positive impact in people’s lives.

“Global Launch shows you the best of the United States. People are friendly and students from all around the world spend time together. I even embraced traditions like sharing food with friends at Thanksgiving because of Global Launch activities [...] If you can study English here, do it! It might change your perspective on living in America and what this beautiful country has to offer.”