Vasco Almeida, an alumnus of CATÓLICA-LISBON, has been awarded the Academic Achievement Award for attaining academic excellence during his fourth year of the Double Degree program at the University of San Diego (USD).
The Academic Achievement Award is presented to students who demonstrate exceptional performance throughout their academic journey. It’s a recognition based on academic achievements, including high grades, active engagement in academic activities, and potential for continued success in education.
Vasco Almeida, who recently completed a Double Degree in Business Management with specializations in International Business, Finance, and Real Estate from CATÓLICA-LISBON and the University of San Diego, expresses a sense of pride in receiving this award. He states that it "represents the acknowledgment of my effort and dedication over the years, culminating in a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0. It was particularly gratifying to realize that I excelled academically at CATÓLICA-LISBON and that this allowed me to represent my university positively in the Double Degree program in San Diego."
Despite facing challenges such as different schedules, cultural aspects, and especially the distinctive academic system of the United States, Vasco believes that "discipline, resilience, and the ability to adapt to new contexts were crucial for achieving this recognition."
Graduating "Summa Cum Laude," developing a consulting project for the Mexican company TEKITI, which included a visit to Guadalajara, Mexico, and obtaining an exchange scholarship that allowed him to spend a month in Tokyo, Japan, studying Negotiations at a Japanese institution were significant milestones for Vasco Almeida.
Currently working as an Operations Analyst at Uber, Vasco intends to continue his studies. "This award and the experience of the Double Degree (…) have opened many doors for me. Holding both an American and a Portuguese diploma is a differentiating factor in the job market, both in Portugal and abroad. I hope to continue internationalizing my profile and reaping the rewards of my hard work."
To future students, Vasco Almeida advises, "Give your best at CATÓLICA-LISBON, as the Double Degree with USD is a highly competitive exchange program. Solidifying your knowledge in Portugal will enable you to shine in the Double Degree with USD." Additionally, he recommends preparing in advance for the cost of living in the United States, which can be an unpleasant surprise if not properly planned.
"Completely transformative, innovative, and allowed me to achieve greatness." This is the motto Vasco chooses to encapsulate his experience at both institutions, reflecting on how his journey at CATÓLICA-LISBON and San Diego was innovative, allowing him to surpass his personal and professional expectations.