At CATÓLICA-LISBON, freshmen 'roll up their sleeves' for solidarity

On September 1st, the day started at 9 am for the freshmen students of CATÓLICA-LISBON. At that time, dozens of young students expectant and excited about what would be their second day in higher education at one of the best business schools in Europe, were at the Campus, which served as the meeting point.

The students, already in groups, knew that a different day awaited them. Solidarity Day, which celebrated its 13th edition this year, is already a tradition at the business school and aims to offer an alternative to the traditional practice for integrating new students. This year, as usual, the 'Potato Gleaning' event was held in Golegã, in collaboration with AGROMAIS, which then delivers the tons of potatoes collected to the Banco Alimentar Contra a Fome.

Upon arrival at the agricultural field, after a trip from Lisbon to Golegã, the CATÓLICA-LISBON Student’s Union led the group of 200 freshmen, giving the example of those who had already followed the same journey in previous years.

The challenge was simple. The team that collected more sacks of potatoes, after an hour, won. As time went by, the bags of potatoes were growing, as well as the spirit of inclusion, mutual help and competition. Inês Calçada, a young Portuguese student pursuing a National Undergraduate degree in Business Administration, is an example of this integration. " I found the concept of solidarity practice very interesting. We had everyone together, and the team spirit was TOP!" she exclaims enthusiastically. When asked why she chose CATÓLICA-LISBON, Inês does not hesitate: "It is one of the most reputable schools in Portugal. It has the degree I want, so it was my first choice".

Another student who shares the same enthusiasm is Marta Almeida. Even though she is Portuguese, Marta chose the International Business Administration Course. For her, potato gleaning is "a very different activity and an excellent way to meet new people”. CATÓLICA-LISBON has a special meaning for Marta. "My whole family studied here, and the opportunities provided were life-changing. For this reason, I chose CATÓLICA-LISBON".

An hour after the solidarity competition began, the students had collected around 150 sacks of potatoes, which were now piled up on the collection truck. With a feeling of accomplishment, Rita Coelho do Vale, Associate Dean, responsible for all Undergraduate Degree Programs, states that “this day is a unique experience for our students. It is a possibility to participate in teams, creates cohesion, and serves a crucial purpose, promoting solidarity through the collection of these potatoes, that would otherwise be abandoned in the ground. In this way they are donated to charity and social solidarity”.

These unique opportunities and enriching experiences, not only solidify the school's mission, but also attract students from around the world. From outside of Portugal, the young German Cecilia Charlotte, a student of the International Business Administration Course, stands out for her passion for Lisbon. She feels comfortable as if she's at home, and this feeling is partly due to the warm welcome she has received. Her choice was motivated by her desire to live in the capital and the University's reputation. "I chose CATÓLICA-LISBON because I always wanted to live here, and this school is one of the best business schools in Europe. Furthermore, I want to learn as much about Portuguese culture as possible".

The 14th edition of the Solidarity Day is almost certain to return next year, in the opinion of Rita Coelho do Vale. “It is a unique and memorable event that will remain in the memory of these students, for sure.”