Matilde Marques is a third-year Psychology undergraduate student at the Faculty of Education and Psychology at the Universidade Católica Portguesa (FEP-UCP). Since September 2024, she has also been a student ambassador for the Portuguese Psychologists Association (OPP). In this brief conversation, Matilde explains the role of an OPP student ambassador and highlights its importance in promoting greater awareness of the psychology profession within the academic community. On 25th March 2025, she will be attending Psychology Days, an event organised by FEP-UCP, where she will introduce students to the responsibilities of this role.
How did the opportunity to become a student ambassador for the Portuguese Psychologists Association arise?
I came across this opportunity through a post on the OPP's Instagram page. After researching more about the position, I was immediately interested. Although I initially doubted whether I had the right skills, with encouragement from colleagues and lecturers, I decided to apply — on the very last day! Fortunately, it turned out to be one of my greatest professional achievements.
Representing students and bringing them closer to their professional future
What are your main responsibilities as a student ambassador?
My role is to act as a bridge between the OPP and the students of the Faculty of Education and Psychology at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa. I help to promote initiatives such as the eAcademies, share information about the profession, and provide student feedback to the Portuguese Psychologists Association. The aim is to bring students closer to their professional future.
What are the eAcademies?
The OPP's eAcademies are online initiatives aimed at psychology students in Portuguese higher education institutions. Essentially, they are informative sessions led by experienced psychologists, covering relevant topics such as the role of psychologists, challenges in the job market, and the requirements for the Junior Professional Year. They also provide a space for students to connect with peers and OPP psychologists through an online community.
How have you been facilitating communication between FEP-UCP students and the OPP?
I use various channels to reach students: messages in class group chats, in-person presentations during lectures, and sharing information through my professional Instagram account.
Can you highlight some initiatives you have participated in as an OPP student ambassador?
One of the most enriching experiences was attending the 6th OPP Congress in September 2024. Additionally, I helped promote the eAcademies on OPP’s social media alongside other ambassadors.
The essential role of student ambassadors in universities
How important is the role of OPP student ambassadors?
Currently, there are 22 ambassadors across different higher education institutions. This role is essential in bringing students closer to the OPP and providing clarity on their future profession. Having more information about the academic and professional path makes a significant difference for future psychologists.
What would you say to students who are considering this path?
Go for it! We often underestimate our abilities and give up before even trying. This is a unique opportunity to develop skills and engage with the field of psychology in a more active way. Being involved in student organisations can be a major advantage for your future career.
How do you think this experience will influence your professional journey?
Being a student ambassador has helped me develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and responsibility. Moreover, it has allowed me to build professional connections and gain a better understanding of how the OPP operates.
In what ways has this role contributed to your personal development?
It has been an incredibly enriching experience. Beyond networking with professionals in the field, I feel that representing our institution has been a huge personal achievement. Above all, it is rewarding to learn and share that knowledge with my peers.