Balancing personal life, work, and a doctoral program is already an achievement worthy of recognition. But transforming that journey into scientific knowledge and being recognized by a prestigious publication is a feat that deserves celebration. That is exactly what Genarde Macedo Trindade, a doctoral student in Educational Leadership at MUST University from Amazonas, accomplished when his article was accepted for publication in the Ibero-American Journal of Humanities, Sciences, and Education. This achievement was also shared with Professor Juliana Cavalcante de Andrade Louzada, faculty member at MUST University and co-author of the paper, which originated from one of the program’s courses.
The article’s idea was born from the desire to transform the scientific production of a doctoral course into material capable of making a real contribution to the field. “From the very beginning, I already imagined that the doctorate would bring many challenges, but that each adversity would be an opportunity for growth,” says Genarde. Among the most significant moments of this journey was the birth of his daughter Giovana, an event that brought even greater meaning — and complexity — to balancing study, work, and family life.
That challenge, in fact, was directly incorporated into the article’s content. “Time management was one of the main focuses of the work. We must know how to plan and execute our academic activities while also dealing with professional and family responsibilities,” explains the author.
According to Professor and researcher Juliana Louzada, who supervised Genarde in one of the courses, the article originated from a final assignment requiring students to deliver a scientific article in three stages. “Genarde presented an initial proposal that was ambitious and interesting, but that would require more time for execution and a more specific methodological scope. We discussed how to adjust the idea to make it viable within the course schedule, and he accepted the suggestions with maturity. Even while facing the personal challenge of his daughter’s birth during the process, he delivered a final work of excellent quality that exceeded expectations,” recalls the professor.
As co-author, Juliana played a fundamental role in shaping the submitted material. She guided the necessary adjustment from the original proposal — which aimed to interview all students from the first doctoral cohort — into something more feasible. This collaboration refined the focus of the analysis, making the article more objective and in-depth, without losing the richness of the intended reflection.
For Juliana, the great differentiator of the article was its reflective approach to the doctoral journey. “Genarde brought to light a perspective rarely explored: a critical analysis of his own experience as a doctoral student. He highlighted the positive aspects as well as the gaps identified along the way, which made the text relevant, sensitive, and necessary,” she explains.
More than just an academic recognition, the publication represents for Genarde a confirmation of his commitment to science. “I have always believed that contributing to the scientific development of my field is a priority. This publication is also recognition for the effort and dedication I have invested in this journey.”
A faculty-researcher at the State University of Amazonas, Genarde already has a history of contributions in the fields of Computer Science Education and Informatics in Education. Looking ahead, he is enthusiastic: “You can expect more high-quality articles! I intend to continue scientific production during and after the doctorate because I believe this is one of the main legacies of a high-level academic program.”
For Juliana, this accomplishment is an inspiring example for other MUST University students. “It shows that when students dedicate themselves and follow guidance seriously, results come. In addition, publications add value to their résumés and increase visibility as researchers.”
Regarding the skills that contributed most to the success of the publication, the professor is clear: “Critical thinking and commitment to the program were fundamental. Despite all the personal challenges, Genarde maintained focus and responsibility.”
And the impact of the research does not end with the publication. Juliana believes the work may generate even greater contributions: “If he resumes the initial proposal with interviews and data collection, the results could support important improvements in curriculum design, student support, and educational management strategies.”
Genarde leaves a valuable piece of advice for those who also dream of publishing: “Disseminate your research. This is part of the doctoral journey. The contribution is not only personal — it strengthens the program, the scientific community, and positively impacts society.”
Genarde’s story is, without a doubt, a powerful reminder that science is born from experience, effort, and attentive listening — including listening to oneself. It is also an inspiration for all those who, despite everyday challenges, remain firm in their purpose of transforming knowledge into legacy.
Authors: Genarde Macedo Trindade and Prof. Juliana Cavalcante de Andrade Louzada
