The Voice Magazine recently had a chance to chat with Octavio Gouveia, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology student, currently living in Toronto, Ontario. He stated, “I acknowledge that I live and work on the traditional lands of the Indigenous peoples of this area.”
On a personal note, Octavio is “a Brazilian-Canadian living in Toronto.” He continued, “Although I have studied psychology and early childhood education in the past, I decided to pursue psychology in Canada to stay updated and to experience education at a Canadian university.”
He has some big plans post-graduation. “After I complete my studies, I plan to apply my knowledge to support others, especially those with unique challenges like myself.”
Octavio had some great study tips for fellow AU learners. “I study best in a structured environment with minimal distractions. Setting specific goals keeps me motivated, and I often break my study sessions into manageable chunks. I also find that using visual aids helps me absorb information better.”
He also had some good advice for new students and/or prospective students. “Embrace your uniqueness, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your needs. I wish I had known earlier that it’s okay to ask for accommodations. Your differences can be a strength, so use them to your advantage.”
When he is not studying, he enjoys “watching TV shows and movies, reading, and having fun with [his] kids.” He continued, “These activities help me relax and connect with my family.”
Octavio also enjoys reading, sharing several books that have made an impact on his life. “One author who has significantly impacted my life is Brené Brown, mainly through her book Daring Greatly. In this book, she explores the concepts of vulnerability and courage, emphasizing that embracing our imperfections is essential for living a fulfilling life. Her insights helped me understand the importance of authenticity and connection, especially as someone navigating challenges related to my identity and experiences.”
He continued, “Additionally, Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking influenced my decision-making perspective. Gladwell’s exploration of intuitive judgments and our quick assessments have helped me appreciate the complexity of human behaviour. It encourages me to trust my instincts while being aware of how these snap judgments can impact my interactions with others. These authors have provided me with valuable tools to navigate my personal and academic journey.”
As for the one person who has had the greatest influence on his desire to learn? “I draw inspiration primarily from myself and my determination to overcome challenges. As someone who navigates life with AuDHD, I have faced misunderstandings related to my condition. Each challenge motivates me to prove that nothing can stand in the way of my success.”
And his experience with online learning so far? “My experience with online learning has been quite positive. I appreciate its flexibility, but I sometimes miss the interpersonal interactions in a physical classroom. However, I find that online resources can be invaluable and accessible.”
The Voice Magazine also asked Octavio what his first project would be if he were the new president of AU. He stated, “I would prioritize initiatives that enhance support for neurodiverse students and those from the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring that resources are available to help everyone succeed.”
We also asked which famous person, past or present, he would like to have lunch with, and why, and he chose singer Michael Jackson. “I would enjoy discussing how his experiences can relate to resilience and overcoming challenges,” he explained.
As for his most memorable lesson learned in life? “My most valuable lesson is that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.” And his proudest moment? “My proudest moment was successfully navigating a challenging situation that allowed me to advocate for myself and others with similar experiences.”
On a final note, Octavio added, “I am proud of my identity as an autistic person with ADHD and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My experiences have shaped who I am and drive my commitment to helping others who face similar challenges.” Best of luck, Octavio!
At times, in an online learning environment, it can feel like you are all alone, but across the nation and around the globe, students just like you are also pursuing their Athabasca University (AU) studies! Each week, The Voice Magazine will be bringing you some of these stories. If you would like to be featured next, do not hesitate to get in touch!