UC Summer University: 'The week that changes lives'
Hundreds of teenagers wearing colourful UC T-shirts gathered to say goodbye to another summer programme at the University of Coimbra. For some of them, this is not their first time. Others leave eager to come back
During the closing ceremony of the 15the Summer University (UV) edition, the Chemistry atrium at the University of Coimbra (UC) was filled with colour, hugs, tears, joy and heartfelt thanks. Twenty-six teenagers, each representing a different field of study available at the UV, took to the stage to thank the monitors, the Academic Association of Coimbra (AAC), the Rectorate and the UC professors.
Isabella Domingues, who chose the field of economics and travelled from Luanda in Angola to Coimbra for her UV experience, stated “Firstly, I would like to thank the organising team, the Student Hub, the Academic Association of Coimbra and the University of Coimbra. But most of all, our monitors,” said the student who travelled from Luanda in Angola to Coimbra to participate in the UC-UV event said, "Above all, this week was transformative because we were all together for a common purpose: to decide on our future path." She added: "This experience was totally unparalleled."
João Catarino (Medicine) said, "It's amazing how quickly you can form bonds and friendships with people you've never met before and create memories with them."
From 27 July to the 1st of August, the University of Coimbra (UC) hosted the 2025 edition of its Summer University (UV) – with 584 high-school students were able to experience life at the UC across its many dimensions, including teaching, research, culture and sport.
“This edition attracted more applicants and international students, showing that the UC Summer University is increasingly gaining recognition abroad,” said Cristina Albuquerque, Vice-Rector for Education and Attractiveness at UC.Vice-Rector for Teaching & Attractiveness
For the first time, participants were able to explore more than one field of study, and also attend a scientific workshop in a different area. This was also the first time that the School of Nursing, which is now part of the University of Coimbra, participated in the initiative, thereby enriching the range of activities on offer.
The Summer University is organised by the University of Coimbra in partnership with the Academic Association of Coimbra (AAC, the Coimbra Students’ Union), with support from Santander Universities and the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan.
"I hope you have made the most of this week and learned about the many opportunities offered by the University of Coimbra, as well as the city's culture and that of the Academic Association of Coimbra," said Carlos Magalhães, President of the General Directorate of the Academic Association of Coimbra (AAC).
One thing was certain for many at the end: there will be more next year.
