On July 26, the Open Day of the Degree in Applied Data Science took place at the Portuguese Catholic University (UCP) - Braga, an initiative that introduced prospective students to the curriculum, the faculty and the area of Data Science.

The welcoming session was led by Paulo Dias, Pro-Rector of UCP - Braga, who stressed the natural link between Data Sciences and the Humanities and also reinforced the institution's commitment to the growth of this area.

João Gonçalves, coordinator of the degree, presented a practical example of the use of artificial intelligence in everyday life and challenged the participants to develop critical thinking, a fundamental skill in the face of the challenges of an increasingly uncertain future.

This was followed by a speech by Luís Santos, a data scientist, who shared his professional experience in projects in areas as diverse as the textile industry, management software, the mold industry and call center operations. The expert stressed the importance of curiosity and developing your own projects as a way of growing in the area.

Also present at the event was Bruno Nobre, Director of the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences, who gave a brief speech presenting the history of the institution and reinforcing the quality of the training offered in the area of Data Science.

During the explanatory session, participants had the opportunity to learn about the degree's syllabus, which is distinguished by combining technical skills with humanistic training, promoting a more complete and conscious preparation. The various scholarship options available were also presented.

The meeting ended with a practical activity, where participants used code to respond to challenges inspired by real situations in the professional world, allowing them to try out some of the tools and methodologies of Data Science.