Lurdes is on her way out, after many years coordinating the administrative services of the Department. She hasn’t really left us yet, but we already miss her dearly.

In this edition of Inside DEI, we’ll get to know our (former) colleague Lurdes Farrusco a little better.

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

I, Lurdes Farrusco, joined IST in 1992 (I can already see retirement on the horizon!), in the Department of Civil Engineering. At the time, I was secretary to the Executive Committee, chaired by Prof. António Lamas, who invited me to come to IST. Later on, I worked in the Applied Mechanics Section and after that I became responsible for coordinating the Master's programs.

In 2012, I was invited by Prof. José Tribolet to come to DEI, which ended up happening in March 2013, until the 30th of March, 2025.

I must point out that the changes that have taken place in recent years at IST, which affect the Departments, have made the School very different, and very different is not necessarily better!

• Tell us a little about what you do now at DEI.  

At DEI, I have taken on various roles and collaborated in different areas over the years. Currently, my work is more focused on the academic field. My main responsibilities include preparing equivalency plans for first- and second-cycle courses, managing the procedures for the Curricular Unit "Project in Computer Engineering II" (PIC2) and dissertations, and coordinating exam proctoring for first- and second-cycle students. Each of these tasks is essential for the smooth operation of the department and the success of our students.

• What do you enjoy most about your daily work at DEI?  

I like people, I like not having routine tasks, I like challenges, I like learning.  

I particularly enjoyed the tribute exhibition we prepared for our Emeritus Professors, from whom I learned so much. I loved the joy we were able to give them.  

I’m fond of all our professors who have retired or passed away. They are always missed, and it’s always a joy to receive their visits.  

I love our celebrations, there’s no Department like this one!

• Who is Lurdes outside of Técnico?  

I enjoy exercising and going on walks. I like to travel. I like music, almost all kinds, but Pink Floyd still tops the list (as Beta says: when the boss is listening to Pink Floyd… don’t interrupt!). I love reading, it’s my favorite Sunday morning activity.  

I treasure the moments I spend with my friends, our get-togethers, those lunches that turn into dinners, in true Alentejo fashion!  

I love cooking, knitting, and taking care of my plants. I enjoy doing Arraiolos embroidery and cross-stitch. They're my go-to stress relievers.