PORTO, June 21, 2025 – As students navigate the stress of exams and contemplate their futures, the big questions linger: Did I choose the right course? Will I enjoy my future career? Is university even the right path? A look back at the journeys of five students who entered universities in Minho, Porto, and Lisbon with top grades a decade ago offers some answers.
Five students who entered higher education with top grades share their experiences and insights on navigating academic and career choices.
- Changing your course is not a failure.
- Choosing what you like can make the journey easier.
- Success is resolute by effort and passion.
Students who applied for higher education in the 2015/2016 school year had over 50,000 places available. It’s been about a decade, and they’ve learned a thing or two about making decisions that shape a career.Even the brightest students, those with near-perfect grades, weren’t always certain of their paths. Some switched courses, even multiple times, while others found dream jobs or are still figuring it out.
embracing the Unexpected
Ana Catarina Sousa, 29, found that changing paths isn’t the “worst mistake,” but sometimes necessary to find your place.She initially planned to study medicine but switched to economics and then mathematics at the University of Minho. “It took me some time to find my way,” she says. Eventually,she landed in computer engineering. After finishing her degree, she returned to her love for mathematics, completing a doctorate and teaching at the University of Porto’s Faculty of Engineering.
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“Despite knowing that my love for mathematics was guiding my route, abandoning medicine was what cost me most, because there were many expectations and felt that I was disillusioned and other people,” she says. “Everything was worth it,” she notes. She learned a lot from different areas, which are now a benefit.
She emphasizes the importance of adapting and changing course as needed, rather than staying in a situation just because a decision was made years ago. She never imagined where she is now, but she expects to continue in the area of investigation, despite the instability associated with the scientific research course.
Making Choices and Finding Your Path
Mariana Malonek, 27, recently finished her six-year medical course at the University of Porto, but near the end, she decided to explore new avenues.
Nelson Garrido
She recalls that the college experience was a shock to her. While the classes and exams were quite demanding, the young student maintained the grades that were expected of her. At the beginning of her fourth year,she left college,but eventually,returned to medicine,completing both degrees. She’s now doing general training in medicine at the Santo António Hospital in Porto and is considering what she will want to do, while also finding time to play the violin.
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How can students navigate the challenge of choosing a course? Making a decision will never be easy, because a person never realizes what they will do until they start doing it. You have to keep in mind that there are different ways to reach your goals and there are so many areas to explore.
Passion and Perseverance
Benedita Viana, who also entered the University of Porto School of Medicine with one of the best averages, believes, “There is no right choice, there are several.” Now in her second year of residency in Cardiology at Hospital São joão, Porto, she reflects on the challenging journey.
For Benedita, choosing medicine was natural. “If we have inclinations [para alguma área] and if we respect them,it will be easier,” not only to finish the course,but also to work every week. Running for taste tires, but “Tires less.”
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The Power of Effort
Catarina Silva, despite concerns about job prospects, chose to study international relations at the University of Minho in 2015. She prioritized choosing a course she was interested in, working on her skills, and believing that effort would determine her success. After completing her master’s degree, she entered the job market during the pandemic. She’s now a public affairs consultant in madrid.
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She notes that she didn’t imagine doing what she dose now, but knows the course brought her to her career. Students should try to make a choice that reflects their future, she says, and the way will be “always challenging.”
Following Your Interests
Sara Pessoa, who had excellent grades, chose aerospace engineering at the University of Lisbon Institute Technical Institute. She moved from Porto to Lisbon. She made new friends and increased her support network. “It’s even ‘easier’ if there is passion,” she says, and if you choose an area you like and awakens “the brightness in the eyes.” After completing her master’s degree, she is now finishing a doctorate in mechanical engineering in Canada.
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Overcoming Challenges in Higher Education
As the featured students demonstrate, higher education journeys are rarely straightforward. The path toward a fulfilling career is ofen marked by challenges, both academic and personal.Yet, thes experiences shape individuals who are resilient and adaptable.
One of the core takeaways from the students’ stories is the value of self-awareness. Students should reflect on their interests, strengths, and values. Seeking mentors, advisors, and personal networks can also help students make informed choices and stay on course.
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The stories of these students provide a good base when navigating educational and professional choices.
Benefits and Practical Tips for Students:
- Embrace Exploration: Don’t be afraid to explore different subjects and fields early on.
- Build a Network: Connect with professors, students, and professionals in your areas of interest.
- Seek Guidance: Utilize university resources like career services and academic advising.
- develop Skills: Focus on building skills that apply across disciplines, such as critical thinking and communication.
- Prioritize Well-being: Maintain a healthy work-life balance, and seek help when needed.
Myths vs.Facts About Choosing a Course
Many misconceptions exist about choosing a course and its impact on one’s future. It’s essential to distinguish between common myths and the realities of higher education and career paths.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Choosing the “wrong” course guarantees professional failure. | Many successful professionals change career paths. A course is a tool more than a destiny. |
| Students with perfect grades always succeed. | Success is built on adaptability, skills, and passion, not just academic performance. |
| You must no your career path from the start. | Many students discover their passions and career paths through exploration and experience. |
Is changing your major a sign of failure? No, it can be a sign of self-discovery, leading you to a more fulfilling path. Can passion alone guarantee career success? Passion is vital, but it should be combined with effort, skill-building, and realistic expectations.
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