In this edition of Shine Bytes we interview Catarina Freire, winner of a Feedzai Women in Science MSc & PhD Scholarship for 2024/2025.

Tell us a little about yourself and your journey at IST

My name is Catarina Xie Freire, I am 20 years old, and I started my Bachelor's in Computer Science and Engineering in 2021. For a large part of my academic journey, I didn't think about pursuing engineering, but I have always enjoyed solving logical problems. After taking programming classes in high school, I realized it was an area that interested me, and I decided to follow that path. Since my third year of undergrad, I have also been working as a teaching assistant (TA), and I am really enjoying the experience. In the meantime, I have completed my Bachelor's degree, and I am currently in the first year of my Master's, focusing on Artificial Intelligence.

What did winning this award personally mean to you?

Personally, winning this scholarship means that my effort and dedication over the past few years are being recognized, and in such a significant way. When I started this degree, I wasn’t even sure if I was on the right path, and this award really helps to combat those uncertainties and motivates me to move forward with even more determination.

Why are awards like this important?

In addition to providing financial support and encouraging students to dedicate themselves to their studies, these scholarships are also very important for promoting gender equality in fields where, unfortunately, there are still few women. Awards like this help to showcase the value and talent of women in technology, which in turn inspires and motivates other girls to follow the same path.

In your opinion (aside from awards ;) ), what can and should be done to attract more women to science?

I believe we need to change the mindset about women in science, starting from an early age. We should expose girls, from a young age, to programs that encourage them to explore science in a fun and accessible way. Often, there’s the idea that science is too difficult and/or only suited for a certain "type" of woman, and we need to break that notion and show that science is for all who are interested. Initiatives like this award and interviews are great for giving visibility to different types of women in science, helping to break these stereotypes.

Do you have any advice for future female students in Computer Science and Engineering at Técnico?

It won’t always be easy, but don’t give up and don’t be afraid to fail or ask for help. Follow the path you truly want, especially if those around you don’t see or understand it. Also, don’t underestimate the impact of friendships: having peers with whom you can share doubts, challenges, and experiences makes the journey much easier and more enjoyable.