Joana Sousa | Law

Joana Sousa

Bachelor's Degree in Law

“I never really thought about it, I never had a goal to get top marks or be the best – I just liked pushing myself to the limit, so to speak, and giving my best, because I felt good when I knew I was making an effort and dedicating myself to my studies. I’d feel a bit guilty or weighed down when I didn’t do as much or got lower grades, and that actually motivated me to try even harder next time.

I had difficulties, of course – mainly with my schedule, because I had quite a heavy workload. So I had to get organised in order to keep up with my studies and maintain good grades. Paying attention in class was essential – that’s what helped me most. Just by attending classes, I felt I would already do well, and I would study just to complement that and aim a bit higher.

So, how did I manage to stay organised? I set goals for each weekday – for example, I had to study ten pages of a particular subject. I usually studied on weekends as well, sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on how tired I felt. I didn’t force myself to study too much, because studying without really being there mentally can block your mind. You know when you're studying, then suddenly stop and think, ‘What did I just read?’ So I didn’t pressure myself too much – I would study until I felt I was still being productive.

At first, I have to admit I was a bit scared about the timetable and the classes themselves. I looked at the names of the subjects and felt a bit lost – it’s a new world, after all, one I didn’t know. But when the schedule was released, I was really happy. It reassured me, because I saw that I would have time to study and also enjoy myself. There was time for everything. As for the subjects, when I eventually started attending classes, I realised they seemed easier than I expected. I was unnecessarily worried, because the teachers explain things really well and make everything clear and simple for us.

They’re very attentive in that regard and supportive of us. There are subjects I find harder and others I find easier. But there’s time for everything – time to study and to have fun. Just because you’re studying doesn’t mean you’re wasting time or that you won’t have as much fun as those who don’t study – there’s time for both. So study, because it’s worth it in the end. You’ll feel good about yourself and go further in life, and still have time to enjoy yourself.

Overall, I’m really enjoying it – more than I expected, actually. I’m really happy with the course. These were the subjects I was most scared of because of their names, as I wasn’t familiar with them. There are more subjects coming up that I already have some idea about – the ones people usually talk about more. These initial ones aren’t mentioned as much, so I was more nervous. But now that I’m doing them, I’m happy and relaxed. I feel like I chose the right course, and I’m even more excited about what’s coming next. If the ones I was scared of are going so well, I can only imagine how great the ones I’m actually looking forward to will be – so I’m even more excited for the future.

I had already heard about Lusófona University from friends who had studied here. They told me the course was good and that the lecturers were excellent, which really caught my attention. I also did my own research – I watched YouTube videos about the university, campus tours, and I checked the university’s website where you can find news and information about the various activities taking place. That’s what attracted me most. And of course, the location of the university is great – especially in terms of public transport and everything else. It’s a really good place.”