In this "Testimonials" we interview Pedro Machado, winner of a Prémio de Mérito Deloitte em Ciência de Dados.

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

Hi! I'm Pedro, and I first set foot at Técnico in 2014. My journey has perhaps been a little unusual. I started in Chemical Engineering, but I have to admit I was never entirely sure it was the right choice. The years that followed confirmed that feeling. It was a discouraging experience, with limited success, in a degree that ultimately proved to be a poor fit for my interests.

This led me to explore different paths outside Técnico and in other fields. Ironically, it was those experiences that brought me back, as some of them sparked my interest in Computer Science and Engineering, a field I quickly became passionate about and one that I am eager to explore to its fullest.

With a completely renewed sense of motivation and a strong desire to learn, I returned to Técnico to pursue the Master's in Computer Science and Engineering. During the past academic year, I balanced my studies with a full-time professional career. Looking ahead, I hope to have the opportunity to engage in research while completing my degree.

• What did winning this award mean to you personally?

This award was particularly meaningful to me. On the one hand, it is a recognition of the hard work and dedication I have invested, which is always rewarding. On the other hand, after going through periods of low motivation and uncertainty, it reaffirmed that it is always possible to discover what truly inspires and motivates us. It also reminded me that, regardless of what came before, we can learn, commit ourselves, reinvent our path and succeed in a completely new field.

• Why are awards like this important?

I believe these awards are important for several reasons. Naturally, they encourage and reward excellence, providing students with additional motivation to strive for their best. The financial component can also make a real difference, helping many students cover expenses or pursue other valuable opportunities and experiences. In addition, receiving an award gives students greater visibility, which can be an advantage when entering the job market. At the same time, donations to Técnico's departments are ultimately an investment in students, who are the primary beneficiaries. Overall, these awards are an excellent way to encourage students to keep working hard and pursuing their ambitions and goals.

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

We all value different things, and fortunately, the Computer Science and Engineering programme at Técnico already has a great deal to offer. Personally, I believe that partnerships with leading companies and renowned universities, research opportunities, scholarships, and hands-on computing activities, whether through student organisations, volunteering, or other initiatives, are particularly attractive. Continuing to invest in these areas would be an excellent way to strengthen the student experience. The diversity, flexibility, and up-to-date nature of the programme are also major strengths, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests while ensuring their education remains relevant in a rapidly evolving field. At the same time, fostering closer relationships between students and faculty, as well as strengthening students' connection to Técnico, helps create a welcoming environment where people feel supported and motivated. Fortunately, there are already many members of the Técnico community who actively contribute to making this happen.

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

My first piece of advice is simple: come, learn, work hard, and don't give up. Great things can come from perseverance.

Secondly, never lose your curiosity or your desire to learn. Artificial Intelligence is here to stay, and we need to learn how to use it wisely. In my view, that means not letting it "think for you," because we learn best by thinking for ourselves. Use AI to clarify concepts, answer questions, and deepen your understanding, but not to do the work on your behalf.

Finally, make the most of your time at Técnico. Explore new opportunities, have fun, meet new people, and don't forget to enjoy life along the way. It won't always be easy, and it won't always be difficult either, but in the end, it will all be worth it.

(original image: Pedro Machado)