There are days that mark the beginning of a new chapter. 7 September was one of those moments for more than one hundred students who chose the Institute for Political Studies of the Portuguese Catholic University (IEP-UCP) as the place to build their future.
Amid anticipation, reunions, and new friendships, the UCP campus opened its doors to the new cohorts of the Bachelor's programmes in Political Science and International Relations and Security and Geopolitics Studies, marking the start of a journey that will undoubtedly remain in the memories of all those who now become part of the IEP community.
The First Step in a New Story
The morning began with the official Welcome Session, a moment of reception and sharing during which new students met the Programme Coordinators, faculty members, and the academic community that will accompany them throughout the coming years.
It was also an opportunity to discover what sets IEP-UCP apart: a rigorous and international education, closely connected to the major political, diplomatic, and geostrategic challenges of the contemporary world.
The Welcome Session featured remarks by Professor Mónica Dias, Director of IEP; Samir Ali, President of the IEP Students’ Association (AAIEP); representatives of the UCP Office for Social Responsibility; Catarina Mendes and Madalena Almeida, from the Communications & Events Team.
Students were then divided into programme-specific sessions with their respective coordinators:
- Professor Orlando Samões, Coordinator of the Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and International Relations (PSIR), who presented the programme structure and answered questions from the new students;
- Professor Tomé Ribeiro, Coordinator of the Bachelor's Degree in Global Security Studies (GSS), who led an introductory and integration session for students enrolled in the programme.
A Community Without Borders
During the afternoon, the Institute also welcomed its international students. The session dedicated to Erasmus students reinforced the global dimension of IEP and helped create the first connections among young people from different countries, cultures, and academic backgrounds.
Much More Than a First Day
The welcome programme concluded in the best possible way: with the traditional IEP Welcome Garden Party.
With music, activities, and moments of conviviality, new students had the opportunity to meet colleagues from different years, build new friendships, and experience their first taste of university life. The campus was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and the academic spirit that characterises life at the Institute of Political Studies.
The event also provided countless opportunities for conversation and exchange, including moments shared between students and Professor Mónica Dias, Director of IEP.
Welcome, New Students! The Future Starts Now.
As a new academic year begins, we are delighted to welcome the newest members of our community and to accompany them on this exciting journey of learning, growth, and discovery.
Politics Matters.
