13-05-2025
Photo Credits: João Lima / NOVA FCT
Last Sunday, 11 May, the Caparica Campus hosted one of the most significant celebrations in academic life: the Queima das Fitas. Final-year students, accompanied by many family members, friends, professors and members of the academic community, came together to mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of new challenges.
Organised by the NOVA FCT Students’ Union (AEFCT), the ceremony, beyond its strong symbolism, is a moment that celebrates learning, personal growth and paths towards the future. The festive atmosphere was further enriched by performances from TunaMaria and anTUNiA which – as tradition dictates – captivated everyone present with the energy and emotion that define them.
The celebration featured several institutional speeches. Diogo Santos, President of AEFCT, reminded students that “what matters is the journey, not how long it takes”, recognising the dedication and perseverance shown by students throughout their academic path.
José Júlio Alferes, NOVA FCT Dean, opened his address with words of motivation and praise for the finalists. “You are the reason we are here today. This is a celebration of your effort, dedication and success – so share it with the professors who guided you, the classmates who stood by your side, and the families and friends who always supported you,” he emphasised.
The school Dean also underlined the value of knowledge and the civic duty of those who benefit from public education. José Júlio Alferes stressed the importance and responsibility of giving back to society the knowledge acquired. “You are studying at a public university, supported by all of us – by every citizen who believes in free and high-quality higher education. Let us not forget that we live in a democracy, and in a time when science is being devalued and knowledge questioned, it is more urgent than ever to defend these principles and take action to preserve them.”
Among students, emotions ran high. Hugs were exchanged, messages were written, and plans for the future began to take shape. Many intend to pursue further studies – the majority at NOVA FCT – while others are preparing to enter the job market, confident in the excellent education they have received.
Continuing their studies is a strategic decision for many. “A Master’s degree is an essential step to consolidate what we’ve learned and to open more doors,” said Rita Martins, Catarina Cabaço and Rodrigo Oliveira, students of Geological Engineering.
This desire to stay at NOVA FCT is shared by André Alves, from the Chemical and Biochemical Engineering programme. “I want to continue and take my Master’s here. The strong connection with industry and the professors makes all the difference,” said the student, who aspires to a career in the biological and pharmaceutical sector. The close-knit atmosphere among students and the strong bonds with faculty are consistently highlighted as strengths of the academic experience. “Everyone knows each other, and there’s a great sense of mutual support,” said Patrícia Quirino and Assunção Brito, Biochemistry undergraduates, who also praised the intercalary period as a time for integration and interdisciplinary learning.
The high standards of the academic programmes are seen as an advantage by Inês Martins and Matilde Martins, both studying Applied Mathematics to Risk Management. “We really have to work hard. The preparation we get from secondary school, at least in our field, isn’t enough. But in the end, we feel really well-prepared for the job market. And from the very first day, the student environment is amazing – we’re welcomed and supported closely,” they explained.
In Environmental Engineering, three students pointed out the broad curriculum and strong practical component as distinctive features of NOVA FCT. “We’re exposed to various scientific fields, which gives us more freedom to explore different career paths,” said Marta Reis. For Leonor Rodrigues, “it’s the close relationship with professors that really makes the difference.” Meanwhile, Marta Correia emphasised the importance of fieldwork visits, as they “help us understand real-world contexts and apply what we’ve learned.”
The experience of living away from home was also highlighted by students from other parts of the country. For Madalena Figueiredo, a Biochemistry finalist, “sharing accommodation with colleagues from different regions – and even countries – teaches you a lot. We share houses, chores and cultures – it’s a powerful experience of personal growth.”
Among the various reflections collected from the finalists, there is a clear consensus: the journey at NOVA FCT represents a commitment to quality and recognition, both in Portugal and abroad. More than a milestone in academic and personal development, this day reflects NOVA FCT’s ongoing commitment to top-tier education, rooted in knowledge, responsibility and innovation. With pride in its students’ achievements, the Faculty reaffirms its confidence in the positive impact they are prepared to make in society across a wide range of fields.
(The link to access the photo gallery will be available shortly).