A 21-year-old Portuguese student has transformed his life from struggling with depression and gaming addiction to becoming a recognized contributor in artificial intelligence and technology, showcasing the power of online education and personal resilience.
Tiago Capelo Monteiro, a student at NOVA School of Science and Technology, emerged from isolation by leveraging online learning platforms like Khan Academy, freeCodeCamp, and Coursera. What began as an escape through 2,000 hours of video gaming became a pathway to remarkable achievements.
Monteiro's professional trajectory includes significant milestones such as being selected for the Silicon Valley Fellowship Program, where fewer than 5% of applicants are accepted. He has delivered lectures on artificial intelligence to medical professionals and published over 20 articles on AI and applied mathematics, accumulating more than 200,000 views.
His recognition extends beyond academic achievements. Monteiro has been named a Top Open Source Contributor for three consecutive years and serves as Vice Chair of his university's IEEE branch. He has also become an active contributor to global organizations like IEEE and BEST.
Monteiro's story represents a broader narrative of digital-age personal transformation, demonstrating how strategic use of online resources and personal commitment can overcome significant mental health and professional challenges. His experience offers hope to young professionals navigating complex personal and professional landscapes.
