Graduate student known for running every Chicago neighborhood will return to Brazil after visa expires

A graduate student from Brazil made it his mission to run every block in Chicago and has already broken a world record.

Now, the viral sensation's dreams for his future may be at risk.

Looking at his Instagram page, you'd think Joabe Barbosa is a native Chicagoan. He's not, but he has become something of a local legend, saying he didn't choose Chicago—the city chose him.

A native of Brazil, Barbosa came to the city in 2022 to get his clinical doctorate in psychology at Roosevelt University. Safe to say, Barbosa made himself right at home, embracing the neighborhoods that make Chicago special, all 77 of them.

He came up with a unique plan to see every mile.  

"I was like, if no one else has done it, I have to be the first to do it. Every single block of every single street," he said.

That's right, some 4,000 miles, and he's almost there. He has set a Guinness World Record for the fastest time visiting every 'L' station. He's even given a TED talk.

"I'm doing something a little silly, but me with a flag, I go into different neighborhoods and I treat people with respect, I treat people well, andI receive so much love and support anywhere I go in Chicago," Barbosa said.

The journey to his doctorate is coming to an end, and now, an unexpected hurdle could mean a forced exit from the United States. He took to Instagram to share that he is not being allowed to stay. Much like in med school, doctoral students need to match with an internship to continue their program.

Due to money, high student numbers, and limited spots, he has found himself without a match, which means his student visa will expire 60 days after he finishes. he has to leave at the start of July.

"Go home, reapply again next year, and hopefully get matched," he said.

As for his chances of coming back to the city he's grown fond of?

"I would love to come back to Chicago. The love and support is increidble," he said. "Chicago has such a place in my heart.. Chicago is an amazing place."

For Barbosa's final run, the last stretch of the city, he'll run from Oak and Michigan to the Buckingham Fountain on June 14. He's inviting everyone in the city to join him that day.