Rita Neves, 22, graduated in Economics from Universidade Portucalense with the best course average of the academic year 2017-2018. For that, she won the “Professor Jacinto Nunes Award”, awarded by Bank of Portugal. The award ceremony was held on the 23rd November, at the headquarters of Bank of Portugal, in Lisbon, in the presence of Carlos da Silva Costa, the Governor. Talking to “Comunica UPT”, Rita Neves says success only depends on determination.

Comunica UPT: In your opinion, what were the key factors to achieve the best average grade of the Economics degree?
Rita Neves: In addition to the skills or talents that each person has, I believe that, with hard work, dedication and perseverance, anyone can get a good average grade. In my case, while there were some subjects I found easier, I still had to work hard in those subjects where I was less at ease, if I wanted to be at the best level.

What were your study and learning routines?
I have always tried to study daily, making daily study a routine of mine. This method allowed me to have a sense of my doubts and difficulties long before the exams, thus achieving clarification, which facilitated learning. It has not always been possible to put this “rule” into practice, but I can say that, when I did, I got the best results.

What were your motivations for choosing Economics and Universidade Portucalense?
I opted for Economics, as opposed to Management, because I considered, at the time, that it was more comprehensive and offering a greater diversity of professional outlets. When I applied for higher education, I chose three public universities, and got accepted in Economics at the University of Aveiro. However, I decided not to go, because it would mean leaving home and moving to another city. So, I chose to stay in Porto and chose Universidade Portucalense because of the good references that were given to me.

Was it your dream to become an economist?
The Economics choice only came in the 10th grade, before that I had never even thought of being an economist. However, I then started to see it as my dream, and I even changed schools and left my friends so I could attend a school that had this course. Nowadays, I do not see myself doing anything else, and I know that I have chosen the right degree.

What balance do you make of the degree?
Overall, it is a very positive one. It is very important to choose a degree – or any other occupation – that challenges us and leaves us enthusiastic about going to school and wanting to learn more. And that is exactly what I felt during my degree. Of course the motivation level is not always the same, but that is normal.

What will be your best memories from this experience?

Everything, I think. From the people I met, to the teachers, and the activities and moments of socializing outside of the classes. The support and attention given to the students by teachers was one of the biggest surprises. Also, the friendliness and availability of the services made all the difference.

What would you like to be doing in five years’ time?
I would like to be involved in the bank sector, banking institutions and financial services. However, I do not want to limit myself to a specific area because, in fact, what I want is a challenging and motivating project.

What advice would you give to the students?
I think the most difficult thing is to choose a degree that motivates and interests us. Everything is easier then, since we are doing what we like, though that does not mean that one does not get tired. The difference, however, is in our ability to overcome difficulties and to be resilient. When I first started the degree, I did not expect it to go this well, and I certainly did not expect to win this award. So, success really does depend on the person’s determination.

Someone who inspires you?
Malala Yousafzai (Nobel Peace Prize 2014).