Testimony - Christopher Catalan

06/02/2024

Christopher Catalan, a promising international student from the United States of America, embarked on a unique journey of academic and athletic growth through the INTERNATIONAL STUDIES & SPORTS ACADEMY. At 18, he discovered in ISSA a valuable opportunity to enhance his skills both educationally and athletically, an experience he regards as extremely valuable and significant for his personal development.

Currently, Christopher is attending a preparatory course for international students at the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), a prestigious institution of higher education that opens doors for him to continue his studies at the same university, aspiring to a degree in Sports Sciences. Beyond his academic commitment, he also stands out in the sports scene, serving as a player for the under-19 team of Sport Clube Vila Real, an emblematic club in the northern region of Portugal.

At Sport Clube Vila Real, Christopher does not just participate in team trainings; he also invests in individualized sports preparation sessions, demonstrating his dedication and love for football. His trajectory is a genuine stimulus, showing how the fusion of education and sports can create unparalleled opportunities for the personal and professional enrichment of young talents.

Through this experience at the INTERNATIONAL STUDIES & SPORTS ACADEMY, at UTAD, and at Sport Clube Vila Real, Christopher is not only refining his abilities and knowledge but is also laying a solid foundation for his future academic and athletic career. He embodies the new wave of students who aim to successfully reconcile their academic and athletic interests, thereby paving the way for a bright and successful future.