Júlia Fernandes

Júlia Fernandes

Bachelor’s Degree in Cinema and Media Arts

“Hello, my name is Júlia Fernandes and I’m in my first year at Lusófona University, studying Cinema. Apparently, I had the second highest entry grade this year at Lusófona University, an 18.8 – a high grade. Ever since I was little, I don’t really remember studying much for tests or assessments, but I always got good results. I don’t know if it’s a good memory or what, but when I got into secondary school, I had no idea what I wanted to do afterwards, so my goal became to get the best possible grades. I pushed myself even harder so that when I did know what I wanted, I wouldn’t face difficulties with grades like many of my classmates did, often saying “I can’t apply to this course because of the entry mark.” I wanted to take that worry off my mind.

I’m very attentive in class – that really helps – and I memorise things easily. My learning method relies a lot on listening. Even during exams, I find myself searching my mind and thinking, “ah, I remember the professor saying this in that class...”, those exact words, and then that’s it. I think it comes down to being a quick learner. Why Cinema? Well, I came here mostly for the creativity, because I’m a creative person and I really love – the word is truly “to create” – and where could I do that? Cinema. Through writing, camera work, shots, everything – directing. I think Cinema gives me a solid foundation to develop my artistic vision, which needs to be nurtured.

So far, I’m absolutely loving the first year – I’m really happy. Expectations? I always try to keep my expectations low so I won’t be disappointed, but so far, it’s been amazing – the classes are very hands-on, we’re already working with cameras, starting to write, and things are progressing really fast. If it’s Cinema, it’s the best. I did my research and talked to people in the field, and they said: “Is it really Cinema you want? You’re sure? Lusófona!”