Located on the 6th floor of the Alves Redol building, room 617 started as a storage room, with spare furniture lying around. In the past few months, however, it was subject to a complete makeover. Under the guidance of the Communications and Outreach Office, students from the PhD Volunteer team measured the space, mapped it out and brainstormed ideas for furniture, decoration and even board games. After a year-long long process, and counting with the strong support from the Board of Directors, the new exclusive PhD Students Room was finally ready, waiting for the big inauguration.

On April 2nd, around 30 people attended the symbolic ceremony, which included two members of the Board, João Paulo Carvalho and Helena Galhardas who, along with PhD Volunteer Daniel Gonçalves cut the ribbon placed at the door. Together, they shared the importance of having a space especially dedicated to PhD students, where they can study, socialize or take a breather from a day’s work. Enjoying the music being played and the snacks provided, the students were left to chat and enjoy their brand-new space.

Connecting with like-minded individuals, listening to each others’ stories and challenges, sharing knowledge and new ideas, are part of what makes community building crucial for a successful PhD journey. With this in mind, the Communications and Outreach Office of INESC-ID has been developing a series of community building initiatives for our PhD students, with the latest one being the much-anticipated PhD Room. This room, managed by the PhD Volunteer team, is now open for any PhD student who wants to use it.