Patricia Dockhorn Costa (24), a Brazilian Master-student, considers herself lucky to be able to participate in the Telematics MSc Programme. 'I come from a small village. All of my Brazilian friends and relatives still live there, most have never left the country'.
Patricia entered the field of Computer Science in 1995, when she started attending the Federal University of Espírito Santo. 'I hadn't even used a computer before that point. I chose that course simply because it would give me a good position in the job market'. She studied part time like everyone else. 'The Brazilian government does not pay students like the Dutch government. I had to work to pay my living expenses.'
She worked in a variety of Computer Science-related jobs. Her last employment was with Xerox after she graduated in 2000. She chose it because Xerox 'holds high status in Brazil'. Still, she was not satisfied. 'I wanted to expand upon my education. The five years in university resulted in a BSc-equivalent and I wanted to get a Master degree as well'.
Patricia could have gone to a Brazilian university but opportunity knocked. Her boyfriend was at that time a Master student at the UT in the program where she currently finds herself. She got the chance to come to the Netherlands and study here, funded by the UT. 'It gave me a chance to get that Master degree while being near my boyfriend'.
She moved in the summer of 2001, finding a new home in the 'Macandra'-building, in the centre of Enschede. 'My roommates came from around the world, but a lot of them were Dutch. I got to know a lot of Dutch people in that period'. So many people, in fact, that she barely participates in any of the activities organised by the International Office. 'I always have plans with my Dutch friends.' After about two months, she and her boyfriend moved to an apartment of their own. 'It took us about four months to find it. Everyone is saying how lucky we were to get it so quickly.'
In Brazil, Patricia hiked a lot with her friends, a hobby that she continues in the Netherlands. 'This weekend, I'm going to Arnhem with some friends, to hike in a nearby forest. It's the first time in the Netherlands, although I have gone out with a bicycle'. Patricia uses her bicycle for almost all shorter distances. 'In Brazil, people usually use the car. I really enjoy cycling.'
In addition to her studies, hobbies and her friends, Patricia's schedule barely leaves room for the Dutch lessons she's been taking for a few months. There is no room left for the many associations on campus, not even for Inter-actief, the student association for, among other programs, telematics.
When she has earned her Master's degree, Patricia plans to remainin the Netherlands for a few more years to get some work experience. After that, it's back to Brazil to be reunited with all the things she's missed and perhaps to start a company.
Favorite sport: Trekking
Favorite TV show: Friends
Favorite performer: The Russian ballet dancer Michail Baryshnikov
Favorite director: Pedro Almodóar
Favorite music: Brazilian music and Pop
Favorite food: Shrimp, prepared the Brazilian way.
Favorite place in the Netherlands: Friesland
Religion: 'None. I used to be Catholic, but I don't think the Church can help me with my faith. I still believe in God though.'
