“IMPA Tech has completely transformed me,” says a student
Gabriel Vieira was admitted to college thanks to the medal he won at OBMEP
A native of Limoeiro, in the interior of Pernambuco, Gabriel de Souza Vieira grew up with an interest in mathematics and programming. His silver medal at OBMEP was a significant achievement that paved the way for his admission to IMPA Tech. Today, at age 21, he is majoring in Computer Science and preparing to begin internships, while considering a career in both academia and the private sector. Learn more about this young man’s journey on #BeyondTheEquations.
Gabriel attended public schools his entire life, and his interest in math began in childhood, catching his teachers’ attention. “I’ve liked math ever since I was little. I stood out in school, but I never imagined I’d pursue a degree in this field,” he said.
It was the encouragement of his teachers that led him to participate in OBMEP and, later, in the Junior Scientific Initiation Program (PIC)—experiences that changed the way he viewed the subject. “In school, we often learn things just to memorize them. In the PIC, I began to further develop my logical reasoning and truly understand what I was doing.”
Even though he enjoyed programming, Gabriel hadn’t considered going to college. The idea came up when a teacher introduced him to the IMPA Tech admissions process. “I thought the undergraduate program’s proposal was very ambitious and unique. That’s what motivated me to come here.”
Moving to Rio de Janeiro also transformed his worldview. “I’ve changed completely. I left a small town and started interacting with researchers, companies, and people from different places. College showed me so many things I never even imagined.”
According to him, one of the unique features of the undergraduate program is the opportunity to explore different fields before deciding on a major. “The foundational phase broadens our horizons. We get to know various fields and gain a better understanding of which path makes the most sense to pursue.”
With an interdisciplinary curriculum and a focus on mathematics, computer science, data science, and physics, IMPA Tech offers students benefits such as on-campus housing, meal allowances, and financial aid, as well as airfare for accepted applicants who live outside Rio.
In addition to his academic training, Gabriel highlights the exposure to the job market provided by the Industrial Challenges. In the edition held in partnership with the MAG Group, he experienced for the first time a project developed in collaboration with a company.
“It was my first exposure to real-world challenges in the job market. We were able to apply what we learned in class, learn about new tools, and work in multidisciplinary teams. It was a very enriching experience.”
Now, all eyes are on the next phase of the undergraduate program. In the coming semester, the student will begin taking more specialized programming courses and start an internship.
Still undecided between pursuing an academic career or working in industry, the student believes that IMPA Tech has prepared him to choose either of these paths. “Here we have opportunities in both research and the job market. Being at an institution affiliated with IMPA opens many doors and creates important connections for the future,” he said.
Outside the classroom, he also takes the opportunity to explore Rio de Janeiro. Hikes, bike rides, and activities organized by the Psychopedagogical Support Center (NAP) have been part of his routine ever since he arrived in the city.
“I like to explore new places. One of my favorite things to do around here is go to the theater, for example. I also really enjoy walking and discovering different parts of Rio.”
For those thinking about joining IMPA Tech, Gabriel offers a simple piece of advice that sums up his own experience. “Anyone who comes here won’t be alone. Everyone is here for the same reason, and we help one another. It’s a great place,” he concluded.
