Entering higher education brings its challenges, but everything is easier with a best friend by your side. This is the case for Inês Vilhena and Diogo Alves. ‘Having Diogo as a friend has always been a pillar at university, knowing that I have him for everything I need has given me more encouragement to pursue these three years,’ says the 22-year-old.
Their first met as freshmen, when they entered the Braga Regional Centre of the Universidade Católica on Welcome Day. But it was during the praxe (initiation ceremonies) that Diogo and Inês got to know each other better and became companions throughout their degree in Psychology at the Universidade Católica.
Having coffee to “catch up” is a routine that the best friends no longer give up. They also take part in various activities together, such as the FFCS Student Association and the Praxist Community. Now inseparable and with their degree finished, they will be starting their Master's in Work and Organizational Psychology in September, side by side.
Of their friendship, the funniest moments spent together were undoubtedly during academic evenings, but the Bachelor degree was the achievement in which they supported each other the most. ‘There were subjects where I helped Inês and others where she helped me, and we always succeeded in passing all the courses,’ says Diogo.
‘I feel that our friendship helped us succeed throughout our journey, as we always supported each other and were proud of each other's achievements,’ adds the recent graduate.
Among their shared achievements were the awards received at the Católica Braga Oscars Gala, where Diogo was recognised as The Most Festive, The Most Supportive and The Most Hardworking. And his best friend did not fall short, taking home the Inspiration and the Most Charming Award.
For the best friends from Braga, Sincerity is the most important value of friendship, but joy and spontaneity are equally important to Diogo.
And for those who are about to enter higher education and want to make new friends, Inês and Diogo leave three pieces of advice:
- ‘Go in with an open mind;’
- ‘Don't be embarrassed and be yourself.’
- ‘Show interest in extracurricular activities.’
