The Students' Association of the Faculty of Education and Psychology at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (AE FEP-UCP) has played a crucial role in fostering a dynamic, inclusive academic environment full of opportunities for all students.
Inês Reis, a third-year Psychology undergraduate, has assumed the presidency of AE FEP-UCP for the 2024-2025 term, with a commitment to leading with proximity to students, creating opportunities, and promoting social causes. In this interview, she shares the Association's priorities and challenges for the current term and outlines some of the strategies that will be implemented to enhance student engagement.
What motivated you to take on the Presidency of AE FEP-UCP?
Since my first year of university, I have been actively involved in the Association, starting in the Pedagogical Department and later serving as Chair of the General Assembly. This journey allowed me to understand early on the importance of the Students' Association and the impact it can have on students' academic and personal lives. I have always wanted to represent and support students, to be an active voice for their needs, and to contribute to improving everyone's academic experience. Leading this team is an opportunity to give students a voice and to develop crucial skills for the future. Knowing that I am surrounded by a dedicated team with innovative ideas was also a decisive factor in accepting this challenge.
“Our goal is for students to feel they can turn to us”
What are the main priorities for this term?
We want to build on the excellent work of previous teams and bring the Association even closer to students. Our goal is for students to feel they can turn to us whenever necessary, whether to make suggestions, seek clarification, or share concerns. Moreover, we want to take the Association beyond the university walls. We plan to expand academic and professional opportunities through partnerships with organisations such as ANEP - the National Association of Psychology Students, promoting training sessions and events that add value to students' academic journeys.
What is the flagship initiative of this term?
Our main focus will be registering AE FEP-UCP with the National Register of Youth Associations (RNAJ). This recognition will grant us access to support from the Portuguese Institute for Sport and Youth (IPDJ), giving us greater capacity to implement impactful activities. As AE FEP-UCP is still a relatively young association, this step represents a crucial milestone in our growth. This support would enable us to carry out new activities and projects aligned with our main goal: creating more opportunities for our students.
“We want to foster a proactive and socially conscious attitude among students”
Are there plans for social campaigns?
We maintain a strong connection with volunteering institutions and donation initiatives, especially in times of need. Our goal is to encourage students to adopt a proactive and socially conscious attitude towards societal challenges, promoting engagement in activities that create a positive impact on the community.
What are the main challenges faced by AE FEP-UCP?
Low student participation in activities is one of the biggest challenges. We want to create initiatives that genuinely capture students' interest and encourage their involvement. Another obstacle is external funding, which is essential for implementing more ambitious projects.
What opportunities exist to enhance students' academic experience?
Our partnership with the Portuguese Institute for Sport and Youth (IPDJ) and our integration into the Porto Academic Federation (FAP) will open doors to new training sessions, events, and programmes that complement academic learning and promote students' personal and professional development.
“We act as a bridge between the Faculty's governing bodies and students”
How can students benefit from AE FEP-UCP?
Students at the Faculty of Education and Psychology can benefit from the Association in various ways. Firstly, they have access to several events organised by us, such as the graduation ball, parties, course dinners, and other social initiatives that foster integration and camaraderie among peers. Additionally, AE FEP-UCP is the students' voice, constantly striving to understand their concerns and needs. We act as a bridge between the Faculty's governing bodies and students, ensuring their concerns and suggestions are heard and appropriately considered. We also represent students internally and externally, establishing strategic partnerships that create more opportunities for the entire academic community. Our focus is always on ensuring that students' interests are protected and valued.
What support does AE FEP-UCP offer to new students?
We welcome new students by participating in integration events organised by the Faculty, such as the Teen Academy, Open Days, and Welcome Week. Additionally, we offer a mentoring programme, where more experienced students help first-year students integrate. We want everyone to feel welcome and prepared for this new phase of their journey.
Above all, we want them to know that we are the link between students and the academic staff, conveying concerns and suggestions and ensuring smooth and efficient communication between both parties.
How do you plan to encourage greater student participation?
By organising dynamic activities tailored to students' preferences. These activities will be scheduled to fit their timetables and exam periods, responding to their real interests and needs. Our priority is to ensure that each initiative reflects the interests of the student community and promotes their active participation.
“This term will be marked by transparency in all our actions and decisions”
What message would you like to leave for FEP-UCP students?
