General reflections

General reflections:

Bianca Mineiro:

This was a long project and one that took a long time to finish. At the beginning of this journey, I didn't believe that I would be able to do something so good or that it would come close to works of previous years. However, the group moved forward slowly, one step at a time (minute by minute, an expression I like to remember when I think I'm not capable) and ideas began to emerge, but the one that prevailed was the reuse of cigarette butts for the production of glasses frames. There was a time of stress, when we could not establish partnerships, until Professor Joaquim da Silva came along and welcomed us into his laboratory at FCUP and provided us with the material we needed. There were 10 visits to the university, a lot of time dedicated to this project and a lot of fatigue, but in the end it was worth it and we were able to accomplish our goal.

I attended INW 23 (conference), HSCI fair (Hands On Science) and Jovens Cientistas (fair) and at first I was afraid, but now I believe they were some of the best decisions I've ever made. Thanks to these, I was able to prove to myself that I was capable and that there is no reason to fear any obstacle or something new that arises in my journey, because I can do it.

Thank you so much Filtvision, you are proof that we have achieved something innovative and you are responsible for me finally believing in myself!

Lara Coimbra:

This project was a roller coaster of emotions. Initially it was not easy for us to decide which problem we were going to tackle and how we could solve it. Once we had chosen the theme of our project in a solid way, it was also not easy to get a partnership with a college. These were anxious times, but we succeeded in the end! The college was essential to the development of the project and provided us, besides the necessary help, all the material we used. The teachers were impeccable and helped us in everything we needed! The project ended up being completed successfully and without any major obstacles on the way. Besides adjusting the butt cleaning process, we just had to try to figure out how to develop the mold. Plaster did not work as the mold was too stiff and there was a lot of resistance to removing the frame used to make the mold, as removing it would end up ruining the mold. However, after opting for the plasticine, everything went well, and the long-awaited prototype was obtained. After the practical part, the team participated in science fairs and in a presentation at a higher education institution, which was very interesting in developing the soft skills necessary for our academic and professional success. However, I think that these kinds of initiatives could be more valued since they take up a lot of time and demand a lot of effort from us. Overall, I consider this type of project work a very interesting initiative, but I feel that it should be more valued. A work that leaves lessons.

Catarina Rocha:

As I look back and reflect on the project we have just completed, I feel a mixture of emotions. There were moments of frustration and difficulty, but there were also moments of joy and fulfillment. The hard work we put in throughout it was challenging, but also very rewarding.

I learned countless concepts related to the environment and sustainability. With each task performed, knowledge was deepened and expanded. In addition, our teamwork and communication skills were enhanced. We learned to listen and share ideas to reach a common goal.

But probably the most valuable thing we gained from this project was confidence in our own abilities to learn and accomplish even what seems impossible. Perseverance was important, as we faced challenges that seemed insurmountable, but in the end we always overcame ourselves.

I am very proud of all that we have achieved together. The commitment and dedication we put into each task was evident and makes an incredible effort along our way. I can't help but look forward to having more similar experiences.

This project has provided me with endless learning, but also great hope that we can do amazing things when we work collectively and put in our best effort. I hope I can use these lessons for future projects and adventures in life!

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