Why Nursing?

After high school, I struggled to find the ideal degree for me. Before joining Nursing, I started degrees in both Management and Applied Mathematics, but neither felt right. It was the experience of accompanying and caring for my grandfather at the end of his life that made me realise that perhaps my path was meant to be different.
 

What fascinates you about this field?

All the care and interactions I have with people, and being able to feel that I’m making a difference in their lives, fascinates me and motivates me to become better - now as a student, and in the future as a professional.
 

What sets Nursing education at Católica apart?

Católica has a different teaching approach from other universities. In the very first year we already have Clinical experience, which allows us to engage with real situations and encourages us to want to know and study more.
 

Recently, you took part in a volunteer mission in Cape Verde.

This was through Católica’s GAS Africa volunteer programme. I had around eight months of training and preparation before travelling to Santiago Island, Cape Verde, with the goal of supporting local communities through activities promoting development, for example, related to hygiene, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and technology. My mission lasted four weeks and allowed me to learn about the routines and diverse cultures of the island.

 

“Volunteering is important because it is transformative and strengthens us as people.”

 

What learning relevant to Nursing did you gain through volunteering?

Empathy. A valuable learning outcome for Nursing. This volunteering experience helped me recognise the humanity that must be present in every healthcare professional.
 

Why is volunteering important?

I was also a volunteer with CASO (Católica Solidária), in a nursing home, during my first year. The early clinical learning opportunities Católica offers allowed me to get to know Casa Kastelo -an institution for paediatric palliative care - where I volunteered and accompanied a child in intensive care until their last day of life. Volunteering is important because it transforms us and strengthens us as human beings.

 

“Nursing must have a strong focus on prevention.”

 

How can Nursing contribute to health promotion and disease prevention?

Nursing can contribute to all these aspects. In fact, Nursing should have a strong focus on prevention. Nurses guide, inform, and motivate people to adopt healthy lifestyles, reduce risks, and improve the quality of life of communities, working from a more holistic perspective.
 

Outside the University, do you have any personal projects that complement your training?

Sport has always been part of my life and, until I was 19, I practised high-performance canoeing. Currently, I have been training in CrossFit regularly and really enjoying the experience.
I am also completing the Red Cross ambulance crew course to explore and better understand the pre-hospital emergency field. Once I finish, I will be able to volunteer in an area I am very interested in, which also complements my studies.
 

What do you take from Católica into the next chapter of your life?

Without a doubt, my experience at Católica is allowing me to meet new people who, I believe, will remain part of my life even after this chapter ends. Professionally, it is preparing and strengthening me to become a well-equipped future healthcare professional.

 

“Enjoy every moment of learning.”

 

What message would you leave to students who are still searching for their true passion? And to those beginning their Nursing studies?

Choose your field of study according to your interests, and don’t be afraid if you don’t find it on the first attempt. The detours I took in my academic path gave me the maturity to face the most challenging moments in my life, academically and personally. If you have doubts, don’t hesitate to seek help from a career counsellor - this support was essential for me in choosing the right path. In the end, what truly matters is doing what brings you the most fulfilment and having the desire to keep learning.
To those beginning their Nursing studies: enjoy every moment of learning. The journey may seem long, but it goes by in an instant and, believe me, it is incredibly rewarding to make a difference in people’s lives.