What made you choose the ParisTech Fondation Renault Masters in Transportation and Sustainable Development?

I found out that the Fondation Renault was offering places on this program when I was studying chemical engineering at Sao Paolo University. I sent in my application, went for an interview, and got a place on the course. I was 22 years old and, for me, it was an opportunity to enjoy an enriching international educational experience in a unique field of study.

The course lasts 17 months. Did you find it difficult to settle in?

No, because it’s not a complete break. I speak Portuguese quite often, with my family on the phone and with the 5 other Brazilians in my class, and everything is geared to help the students to get to know each other fast. Also, the month we spent on a discovery tour of Europe gave us the chance to create real ties.

What does your internship at Renault involve?

I work in the Manufacturing Department where we conduct environmental assessments of the oils, paints and cleaning products sold in the dealerships. How do we ensure that these efficient and profitable products also respect the environment? By improving their environmental qualities without making them less effective – that’s where my knowledge of chemistry comes in. This internship is perfect because it provides a link between my initial training and my master’s.

How has your vision of sustainable development changed?

Europe is ahead of Brazil on sustainable development. Brazilians see it simply as ecology, when really it's the coming together of social, economic and environmental issues that's important. Combining economic growth and environmental protection requires an ongoing commitment from the government and from business – but also from each individual.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m hoping to stay on in France for a while after my internship to consolidate what I’ve learnt. I’ll definitely be looking for a job in a French company when I go back to Brazil.

What will be your best and worst memories of these 17 months in France?

My best memories will be of the multicultural atmosphere at the university residence and of my walks around Paris. On the downside, I don’t like winter, when it gets dark early – it's depressing!  I haven’t been able to talk about soccer with my superiors because the hierarchy here is much more rigid than in Brazil.

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