In this "Testimonials" we interview Afonso Pinto, awarded with a Prémio de Mérito Hitachi em Análise e Integração de Dados 2023/2024.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey at IST.

Hello, my name is Afonso Pinto, I'm 22 years old, and I'm currently in the final year of the Master's program in Computer Science and Engineering at Instituto Superior Técnico. When I started at IST, I knew very little about computer science, but I decided to embark on this adventure to learn more about the current computer and technological world we live in.

During my master's studies, I chose to specialize in Data Science and Cybersecurity, as these were the areas that interested me the most during my undergraduate studies. I can confidently say that I am very happy with this choice. Recently, I was awarded the Hitachi prize in the Data Analysis and Integration course. However, this is not the only recognition I've received in my academic career; during my undergraduate studies, I also received the Celfocus prize in Software Engineering.

Currently, I am an assistant professor at IST, where I teach courses in Forensic Cybersecurity and Information Security in Networks and Systems. In addition to teaching, I am developing my master's thesis, which involves creating an open-source architecture for the banking sector. The goal of my work is to integrate blockchain technology with the more traditional systems currently used by banks, known as legacy systems.

What did winning this award personally mean to you?

Winning this award meant a lot to me because it was a reward for the effort and time I invested in the AID course, which had a challenging project where I had to develop a highly efficient and creative solution using HITACHI's enterprise software to handle real energy consumption data in Portugal. The feeling of receiving this recognition for my work brings me great joy and pride.

Why are awards like this important?

Instituto Superior Técnico is a university of extreme relevance both in Portugal and internationally, so receiving an award in one of the subjects of the Master's program in Computer Engineering is a tremendous recognition for any IST student in their academic journey. 

Awards like this are important for several reasons. Firstly, they serve as an incentive for all students enrolled in the course. Knowing that there is a possibility of winning an award for academic merit is an additional stimulus that motivates students to produce higher quality work, which in turn enhances the course and, consequently, IST as a whole.

Besides the monetary value associated with the award, these prizes promote closer contact with the business world. The companies behind these awards are looking for new talent, and this recognition can open doors in the job market, facilitating the career start for the awarded students.

In your opinion (aside from awards ;) ), what can and should be done to attract more students to Computer Engineering at Técnico?

I believe the most important effort would be to create greater contact with high school students. This can be done through lectures at schools, promoting the university and explaining the opportunities and advantages of studying at Instituto Superior Técnico. IST itself could develop extracurricular activities in collaboration with high schools to engage and inspire students eager to learn. Personally, I feel that this connection with high school education could be improved.

On the other hand, a crucial measure is to promote "Open Weeks" or "Open Days," which allow high school students to visit the university, explore the facilities, participate in workshops, and talk with current professors and students. When I was in the 11th grade, I participated in one of these initiatives, and it was essential for understanding better what each course at IST offered and learning more about the university itself.

I believe these two incentives not only increase the visibility of Técnico but also help high school students make more informed decisions about their academic future, encouraging more young people to choose the Computer Engineering course as their field of study.

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

Life as a student at Instituto Superior Técnico is quite demanding, so the best advice I can give to future Computer Science and Engineering students is to never stop believing that they can achieve their goals, regardless of the difficulties they may encounter, whether in studies, specific subjects, or any other adversity that arises.

It's crucial to never leave a doubt unresolved, whether in a class or during individual study, to ensure that we fully understand what we are learning and do not deceive ourselves. Additionally, developing regular work habits is essential because time is limited and must be well managed.

In conclusion, it's important to remember that work is not everything. Sometimes, it is necessary to set aside what we have to do to spend time with friends and relax. This university phase should not be solely about work and study; it is also a time to build friendships and live new experiences.