Civil Engineering, Architecture and Environment Department (DECivil) at Instituto Superior Técnico welcomed the new students of Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Architecture on 3 and 4 September, marking the beginning of a new stage in their academic journey.

The welcome sessions were held as part of the activities organised for students entering higher education this year, providing them with a first opportunity to get to know the Department, its faculty members, student representative bodies and the fellow students who will accompany them throughout their academic journey.

On 3 September, the new Civil Engineering students were welcomed by the Vice-President of DECivil, Professor António Gago, in a session that also included the participation of Fórum Civil (the Civil Engineering Students’ Association), the Praxe Committee of the Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering, academic tutors and student representatives. In his address, Professor António Gago highlighted the challenge and ambition of the education they are now embarking on: “We have to teach you everything, from zero to infinity.”

Also on 3 September, the welcome session for the new Environmental Engineering students took place, led by Professor Ana Galvão and also attended by academic tutors and NEEA (the Environmental Engineering Students’ Association).

On 4 September, it was the turn of the new Architecture students to be welcomed to DECivil, in a session led by Professor Alexandra Alegre, which also included a presentation by NucleAR (the Architecture Students’ Association). Addressing the new students, Professor Alexandra Alegre emphasised both the demanding and rewarding nature of this new stage: “It is very demanding, but also a lot of fun.” She also left them with a clear message: “We are here, first and foremost, for you. Be present.”

At the end of the sessions, the students took part in a team-building activity organised by Catalyst, designed to break the ice, encourage interaction and help young people from different places and backgrounds get to know one another and integrate more easily.

Through these sessions, DECivil welcomed its new students and marked the beginning of a journey of learning, discovery, and both academic and personal growth.