A life-size replica of ISTSat-1, the first university satellite developed and built in Portugal, is suspended from one of the laboratory’s lamps. The satellite is orbiting our planet and gently oscillates before the curious eyes of the new students at Instituto Superior Técnico. The visit to the NanoSat Lab is one of the activities included in the Welcome Week program at Taguspark campus, providing newcomers with the opportunity to explore the various spaces at the campus.
Two mentors – Computer Science and Engineering students from more advanced years at Taguspark who volunteered – give the best welcome to those starting their studies at the country’s largest school of Engineering, Science, Technology and Architecture.
The new students had their first contact with several Students’ Organisations. João and André, members of one of these organisations, share “mentors’ support is essential to break the ice”, making it easier for the new students to integrate into academic life.
There are many reasons why students prefer Técnico as the first option, but the most frequently cited is Técnico’s “prestige”. Margarida Rodrigues, a student from Lisbon who is just starting her studies at the school, says ‘I’ve heard that students are very friendly with each other and that Técnico teaching is very demanding’, sharing that “studying at Técnico will be a good experience”.
According to Filipe Santana, from Barcarena, “Técnico has a high reputation both in Portugal and abroad” and justifies his course choice with the ‘very high level of employability’ of the IT sector.
At the Alameda campus, while the family welcome sessions take place in the morning, at the end of the day there is room for more informal get-togethers at the sunset parties, bringing together students from all courses. With a bag filled of Técnico merchandise items over their shoulders, these and hundreds of other students take their first steps on this journey. Also during this week, mobility, international and 2nd cycle students are welcomed by the governing bodies and professors.
More information: First Steps at Técnico | Student Guide
