USJ ALUMNI STORIES | Jack Bonte Có’s Inspring Journey to USJ Macao
USJ ALUMNI STORIES | Jack Bonte Có’s Inspring Journey to USJ Macao
28
Jun
28/06/2024
Discover the remarkable story of Mr. Jack Bonte Có, a devoted Catholic from Guinea-Bissau, as he embarked on a transformative study adventure at USJ in Macao.
Mr. Jack Bonte Có, who came from Guinea-Bissau, is a graduate of the Bachelor of Psychology (MPY) and the Master of Counseling and Psychotherapy (MCP) at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) Macao. With a heartfelt gratitude, Jack reflects on his study journey and shares the compelling reasons that brought him to USJ and led him to pursue a major in psychology.
Choosing a Major and Finding His Path at USJ Macao
Being supported by a scholarship, Jack initially planned to come to Macao to pursue his studies. Prior to enrolling at USJ, he was studying Law at a university in Europe. “When exploring the various programmes offered by USJ, I considered my inclination towards helping people and my future career aspirations. I realized that combining law with psychology could create an unexpected and valuable combination. That’s why I chose this path,” he explained.
Jack highlights that in Guinea-Bissau, individuals encounter diverse challenges, including emotional issues influenced by traditional factors and other circumstances. He aspires to seek scientific solutions and provide assistance to those in need.
From Apprehension to Familiarity
“When I left Bissau and came here, I was worried about my faith,” he recalled. As a member of the choir, Jack was passionate about contributing to the church in his hometown. “Arriving in Macao and experiencing a new environment, I was unsure if things would be the same. However, when I arrived at USJ, they showed me the chapel on campus, and the Residential Hall (RH) was located near it. This allowed me to pray everyday with ease.” Jack felt amazed and embraced by the Catholic community at USJ.
[Jack and the Examination Panel of his Master’s Oral Defense]
Gratitude for Professors and Opportunities at USJ
During his six-year journey in the Faculty of Health Sciences at USJ, Jack not only acquired a wealth of knowledge in psychology but also expressed deep gratitude to everyone he encountered on campus. “Here you can find students and staff members from diverse nationalities. Some of the professors and staff kindly communicated with me in Portuguese, which greatly facilitated my integration into the university environment,” Jack shared. He also expressed his appreciation for the exceptional professors at USJ, specifically highlighting the kindness of Prof. Vitor Santos Teixeira, who taught him in both the Bachelor and Master programmes.
Beyond the Classroom: Engaging Campus Life
Jack’s enthusiasm extended beyond his studies. He was actively engaged in campus activities, including an exchange camp organized by the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao Special Administrative Region. “USJ is one of the best places in Macao, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in the camp. Building stronger relationships between China and Portuguese-speaking countries through the younger generation is crucial for future cooperation because the youth hold the key to development,” He emphasized.
In addition to the opportunities provided by the university, Jack fondly recalls another unforgettable experience. In his first year of study, he participated in the USJ International Cultural Day where he experienced not only the culture of Macao but also the cultures of other different countries. “I have vivid memories of my first year here when the university organized the International Cultural Day. It was an amazing opportunity to not only cook and savor traditional dishes but also to share the rich culture of Guinea-Bissau,” he expressed.
USJ takes great pride in Jack’s accomplishments and eagerly anticipates witnessing the remarkable journey that lies ahead for him!
[Jack during his visit to Beijing, China]
