Ao abrigo de uma Bolsa Fulbright para Doutormaneto com o apoio da FCT, João Franco, terminou agora o primeiro ano do seu programa de Ph.D. em “Complex Systems and Data Science” da University of Vermont, VT, EUA.
~~~
«My Fulbright experience in Vermont was both scientifically and personally transformative. Being immersed in a vibrant, multicultural research community gave me the opportunity to work alongside exceptional researchers and build collaborations I know will extend well beyond this fellowship.
Attending international conferences and engaging with researchers from vastly different academic traditions broadened my perspective in ways I had not anticipated. Connecting with parallel research projects allowed me to see my own work through new eyes — and that kind of intellectual exchange is something no textbook can replicate.
Beyond the research itself, living through a full Vermont winter — snowshoeing through the forest, skating on frozen lakes, embracing local traditions from autumn harvest to the most unexpected community events — reminded me how much there is to learn when you simply say yes to new experiences.
I am truly grateful to Fulbright for the connections and opportunities that came with this experience.»
~~~
Thank you so much, João! And congratulations on successfully completing the 1st year of your PhD journey in the United States! Keep up the excellent work!