Francisco Rato

It is truly an honor and a privilege to be a mentor and support system for my fellow NOVA IMS students and the Alumni community. This platform allows me to share my professional journey and personal experiences, while also empowering and inspiring others toward a brighter future. As a former mentee in the 2014/2015 edition of the program, I felt compelled to pay it forward and contribute to the growth of the community that helped shape the professional I am today. I’m immensely grateful to the Alumni community for the opportunity to make a positive impact, especially on students navigating the complexities of the IT job market. Each interaction with fellow data enthusiasts is a moment of mutual learning and growth, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of our community.

Studying at NOVA IMS left a profound mark on me — not only in terms of academic knowledge, but in shaping the way I think about data, technology, and their impact on the world. The interdisciplinary and hands-on approach taught me to connect the dots between technical expertise and business needs, a mindset that has become central to my career. Beyond the classroom, the collaborative spirit, forward-thinking environment, and constant drive for innovation inspired me to be both analytical and adaptable. NOVA IMS didn’t just prepare me for the job market — it helped define my professional identity and instilled a lasting drive to keep learning and evolving.