Before starting this Master's program, I thought it would be easy. I thought I knew everything. I thought I was ready. I thought it was going to be simple. I thought it was going to be quick. But, over time, I realized that this journey was much more than just developing a project. This journey was about personal growth. It was about intellectual development. It was about the humility of accepting that I don't know anything. It was about learning to deal with different types of people. It was about receiving "no" and not giving up. But above all, it was about strengthening bonds with those who were by my side, and it is to these people that I offer my sincere gratitude.First of all, to God, for giving me wisdom to embrace opportunities, patience to await victories, and strength to face difficulties. My heart will be forever grateful for your compassion.To my mother, Rosemeire, for being by my side at all times, for laughing and crying with me, for the advice when I needed it and for believing that one day I would be here. You're everything to me! To my whole family, and especially, to Talita Fontanezi and Feliphi Sena, for the company, love and words of affection.To my advisor, Elisa Yumi Nakagawa, for adopting me when I knew nothing, and teaching me much of what I know today.To my best friend, Carolina "Buzz", for comforting me in every moment of crisis, for not letting me give up at any time, and for always using the right words to support me. You are the exactly definition of what a best friend should be.To the friends and co-supervisors that this journey gave me, Maria Lydia Fioravanti and Ana Paula Allian, who advised me, guided me, and supported me throughout my (eternal) drama. I couldn't have done it without you.