In this Inside DEI, we will get to know our colleague Elisabete Fonseca a little better.

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

I feel that I am a cheerful, approachable person who easily connects with others. I arrived at Instituto Superior Técnico in 1996 and, since then, I have had the privilege of being part of this institution, something that fills me with pride.

Over the years, I have taken on various roles and had the opportunity to collaborate in different areas: I began my work in the DEI library (the most beautiful one at IST), provided student support, and later joined the administrative office of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (DEI), where I performed various administrative and support functions.

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

Currently, I am more focused on supervising theses and organizing events for the DEI, although I continue to collaborate on other tasks whenever needed. Each role I have taken on has contributed significantly to my professional and personal development, also allowing me to strengthen bonds with my team and with colleagues from other areas and departments, something I deeply value. Throughout this journey, I have learned to work with mutual support and resilience, skills that I consider fundamental in any professional environment.

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

What I value most in my daily life at DEI is the positive atmosphere, mutual respect, and the excellent relationships among everyone. This spirit of collaboration makes daily work much more pleasant and peaceful. I am proud to be part of a team that is marked by unity.

• Who is Elisabete outside of Técnico?  

Outside of IST, I’m passionate about the beach, the countryside, barbecues, gathering with friends, and dancing. I especially enjoy taking long walks with my family and my dog. I also dedicate part of my time to volunteering with the organization Serve the City.

At home, you’ll often hear: “More changes? What are you up to now? Another decoration makeover?” And rightly so! I love decorating and am always reinventing every little corner of my home. 😉