Practical knowledge and professional development

“While searching social media for Master’s degree programmes in Europe, I came across information about the Pharmacy programme at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU). It immediately caught my attention. I reviewed the programme details on the University’s website and realised that I met all the admission requirements. The application process was straightforward,” he recalls.

According to Faisal, one of the greatest strengths of the LSMU Pharmacy programme is its emphasis on practical learning and the ability to make independent professional decisions.

“Throughout my studies, we were constantly encouraged not only to deepen our theoretical knowledge but also to learn independently, collaborate with colleagues and develop critical thinking skills. I believe these competencies are essential for today’s pharmacy professionals,” said the fifth-year student at the LSMU Faculty of Pharmacy.

In addition to his studies, he gained valuable professional experience working as a healthcare assistant in a nursing home and as a pharmacy assistant. These roles enabled him to apply the knowledge acquired at the University and gain a deeper understanding of the daily work of healthcare professionals.

“At times it was certainly demanding, but those experiences helped me grow as a professional and prepare for my future career,” says Faisal, noting that the greatest challenge came during his final year, when he had to balance studies, examinations, his final thesis and practical placements simultaneously.

Consistency is key to successful studies

The future graduate advises prospective Pharmacy students to remain organised and consistent from the very beginning of their studies, as pharmacy is a field that requires sustained effort and commitment.

“I would also recommend taking advantage of the Erasmus programme. It provides an excellent opportunity to learn about pharmacy systems in other countries, broaden your professional horizons and gain a better understanding of career opportunities in an international environment,” he adds.

In his view, learning Lithuanian is equally important. Knowledge of the language helps students integrate more easily into society, communicate in everyday situations and opens up additional professional opportunities in Lithuania.

Growing fond of Lithuania and Kaunas

When asked about his first impressions of Lithuania, Faisal immediately recalls the climate.

“The cold weather surprised me far more than I had expected. It took time to adapt, but now even a temperature of 20 degrees feels quite warm,” he laughs.

Over time, he came to appreciate Lithuania’s sense of calm, cleanliness and order, as well as the opportunity to experience a different society and culture.

“Lithuanians are generally more reserved and place greater value on personal space, whereas people in India tend to be more open and expressive. However, these are simply different ways of interacting, and they enrich the intercultural experience,” he shares.

When asked whether he would recommend Lithuania to other international students, the graduate does not hesitate.

“Lithuania offers an excellent combination of high-quality education, a safe environment and a high standard of living. Its history and natural beauty provide even more reasons to explore and recommend the country. I would certainly encourage people to visit Lithuania, and especially Kaunas. Of all the cities in Lithuania, it is the one that feels closest to my heart and the cosiest,” concludes Faisal Habib Patel.

The post A Pharmacy Professional from India Chose to Study in Lithuania appeared first on LSMU.

Every day, Dr de Vitte teaches agronomy and animal nutrition to students in English at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) and then returns to her family farm in the Kėdainiai region.

The agricultural enterprise and livestock herd acquired by the family two decades ago have since been renewed and expanded by almost a third. The farm is guided not only by years of practical experience, but also by the comprehensive knowledge gained at LSMU – knowledge that has enabled Dr de Vitte to build the career she wanted, both as a researcher and as a farmer.

Today, a large part of Dr de Vitte’s family is connected with studies at LSMU: three of her children are currently studying at the University. One is training to become a veterinary doctor, another is planning to continue with a Master’s degree in Animal Science, and her youngest daughter recently began studying Food Science.

Dr de Vitte has no doubt that their choices were influenced by life and work on the farm, as well as by her own scientific career, through which the University also became familiar and close to her children.

Asked whether she helps her children with their studies, Dr de Vitte says there is simply no need: as diligent students, they are already making a strong contribution to the success of the farm through their knowledge and skills. Both older children also see their professional future in farming.

Reflecting on the beginning of her own career, Dr de Vitte smiles: her first studies had nothing to do with agriculture. “When I was studying interior design, I was convinced that I would never grow anything in my life – not even a single flower on a balcony,” sako dr. K. de Vitte.

Everything changed after her experience in Denmark. Having gone there to work, she found a position in an agricultural company. She enjoyed the work and did well, so she decided to change the direction of her studies.

Growing farm and career after the studies

The family’s dairy farm, with its herd of milking cows, required specific expertise. Dr de Vitte gained this knowledge through Animal Science studies at LSMU. This study programme is offered only at LSMU and provides broad, versatile knowledge of farm animals, their selection, breeding, care, nutrition and the management of a modern farm.

“I really enjoyed my studies. They gave me a strong theoretical and practical foundation, and we explored all areas of farming – from livestock and poultry farming to breeding and statistics. I also consider my six-month Erasmus exchange placement in Germany a great success. I chose subjects that were both relevant and interesting to me: economics, animal breeding and agricultural modelling.

Today, this knowledge helps me make solid decisions on my farm, address various economic issues and deal with the many situations that arise in these challenging times,” says Dr de Vitte.

Farmers, of course, face surprises and changes brought about by both climate conditions and various political decisions. According to Dr de Vitte, the education she received helps her view situations more broadly and understand that difficulties are temporary, can be overcome, and require preparation.

“It also helps us calculate our own finances more accurately, plan cash flows and make more rational decisions when selecting the breeds of animals we keep. After my studies, we decided to change the direction of the farm in order to reduce economic risks, and we now raise dual purpose cattle. So, if things are not going well with milk, we sell meat. We also chose to grow somewhat different agricultural crops, so knowledge of agronomy has proved very useful too,” she explains.

After completing her studies, Dr de Vitte’s continued growing in terms of her career. She not only manages the business, but also conducts scientific research, defended her doctoral dissertation, delivers lectures in English and holds laboratory classes for international students at LSMU.

She enjoys sharing her experience and ideas with young people, while they, in turn, share their sincerity and openness with her – sometimes returning after six months or a year simply to have a chat over a cup of coffee.

It takes more than knowledge

Having grown up in the countryside herself, the researcher and entrepreneur has seen how dramatically rural life and farming have changed. There is increasingly less of the stereotypical image of manual labour “in a cowshed with a pitchfork”, and far more modern machinery, tractors and robots.

Yet some things remain unchanged: without love for animals and love for people, progress is impossible.

“Working with animals is never just about working with animals. It is also about interacting with people, because wherever there is livestock, people are needed too. You cannot do everything alone – a team is needed everywhere. It is important to understand not only how to operate a robot, but also how to lead people. It is multifaceted work that requires both practical and theoretical knowledge,” K. de Vitte emphasises.

National efforts to encourage young people to choose a future in agriculture

The family’s agricultural enterprise manages to operate by relying on own resources. However, speaking to representatives of other farms, Dr de Vitte sees the actual demand for qualified specialists in agriculture, and how highly sought-after Animal Science graduates trained at LSMU are.

A number of agricultural companies are already offering scholarships to students entering agricultural study programmes, and are prepared to provide both employment and accommodation after graduation. Students are also additionally encouraged by the Ministry of Agriculture: those admitted to state-funded Animal Science studies at LSMU may receive a monthly scholarship of EUR 200 throughout the entire period of their studies.

First-cycle Animal Science studies at LSMU last 3 years (or 4 years in the part-time study mode).

The study programmes offered by the Faculty of Animal Sciences at LSMU provide both universal and specific, science-based knowledge and skills – whether in raising and breeding farm animals or preparing animals for assisted therapy, service or leisure.

Many students at the Faculty begin working as early as their first or second year of studies, which reflects the strong demand for highly qualified Animal Science specialists.

More information: https://lsmu.lt/en/admission/master-studies/animal-science/

The post Studies at LSMU Transform Lives: A Growing Career and a Thriving Farm appeared first on LSMU.

She began her exclusive professional journey at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU), where she chose the Food Science study programme at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Today, Kristina Liukaitytė works as a Junior Manager of Commercial Excellence in the Human Nutrition business group at the headquarters of DSM-Firmenich in Switzerland.

“The past few years have been intense,” she says with a smile. “I led one workstream in a major project, where we had to analyse and communicate product changes related to the divestment of part of the business.”

The successfully implemented project led her from product marketing to a more business-oriented position. She now works on change projects and communication – an area that reaches well beyond product marketing.

From practical assignments to memorable internships

K. Liukaitytė was among the very first graduates of the LSMU Food Science study programme. Although there was some hesitation at the beginning, she chose the programme because of its uniqueness: it combines knowledge of food production, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, physics, technology and health sciences.

“I have been interested in nutrition and food all my life, and I have always enjoyed cooking. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by culinary arts and the food industry. While still at school, I began taking an interest in restaurants, food safety and quality, independently exploring food standards and reading product labels. LSMU attracted me because of its strong reputation, modern laboratories and integration of health sciences. I am happy with my choice,” she says.

Her years of study were interesting and intensive, requiring her to absorb a great deal of theoretical information. However, the engaging practical sessions and interesting laboratory research made it all worthwhile.

“There was a lot of practical work. We learned about food processes not only in theory – for example, we baked bread ourselves, brewed beer, and made cheese and preserves. We carried out food safety tests in laboratories, explored which processes were safer, and learned how product shelf life is tested,” she recalls.

K. Liukaitytė was also actively involved in various university activities: she sang in the LSMU choir Neris and, together with like-minded students, founded the Food Society within the student association, where they shared news and interesting facts about food.

Her food science studies provided a solid theoretical foundation, which also proved useful in practice, especially during internships and training abroad. Her chosen field also opened the door to internships and training in Switzerland, Germany, France, Denmark, Italy, the United States, England and Ukraine.

Professional experience shapes a specialist

As a young professional, she gained experience in several Michelin-starred restaurants, a chocolate shop in Denmark and an industrial bakery in San Francisco, USA, where she studied at a private bread-baking institute and obtained a diploma in advanced bread-baking technology.

Having now achieved a great deal in her international career, K. Liukaitytė emphasises that real work experience in the field has had the greatest influence on her development as a specialist.

“In practice, you encounter all kinds of situations that cannot be learned from textbooks or during practical student assignments. I learned the most by working with more seasoned colleagues and drawing knowledge from different teams. In addition, complex and unexpected work situations allow you to keep growing and improving – and that is something that no university can provide,” she notes.

Internships in Michelin-starred restaurants

The young specialist started her professional journey 13 years ago, while studying, by working in restaurants and progressing from assistant chef to head pastry chef. She had the chance to work in prestigious Lithuanian restaurants including Džiaugsmas, Nüman and Nineteen18, as well as the Hotel Pacai with the Nordic Food Republic.

“I had the opportunity to work in a one-Michelin-star restaurant in Switzerland and completed an internship at CODA in Germany, which now has two Michelin stars. I also worked as a food technologist, continued studying baking science and contributed to the opening of several bakeries.

I also had the chance to work on the development of new products. One of the more memorable projects was improving the recipe for the Lithuanian vegan chocolate brand Ach,” she says, reflecting on the beginning of her career.

She later deepened her knowledge through Master’s studies in France, earning two Master’s degrees: one in Food and Agricultural Sciences and another in Business Administration. While studying, she worked for an international market analysis company, researching how consumers choose food and beverage products.

From fascinating knowledge to meaningful projects

For some time now, K. Liukaitytė’s professional path has continued in global teams, where she works with colleagues from many different countries. She has worked across various human nutrition segments, including the food and beverage industry, dietary supplements, infant nutrition, medical nutrition and pharmaceuticals.

One of the greatest challenges is responsibility for information and accurate communication with clients. Working together with colleagues including scientists, lawyers and technologists, she has to check and ensure that information about technologies, ingredients and their properties is correct.

A particularly meaningful experience has been her involvement in projects aimed at improving nutrition among vulnerable communities – for example, by helping to develop a more stable form of vitamin A, which now reaches hundreds of millions of people.

Vitamin A is one of the least stable vitamins: during transportation, storage or use in production, its activity decreases, especially in countries where conditions are hot and humid and food safety is challenging.

“These ingredients, a large proportion of which is vitamin A, reach more than 640 million people in vulnerable groups around the world who lack minerals and vitamins. It is a wonderful feeling to know that my work has contributed to improving people’s health,” she says.

Such dynamic work also gives her a sense of inner fulfilment.

“I am motivated by knowledge. Every day I learn something new. One day I am learning about fermentation, the next I am exploring raw material chains. For example, I was surprised to learn that vitamin C in Europe is produced not from citrus fruit, but from maize or wheat,” says K. Liukaitytė.

Skills are built through practice

Which qualities are most useful in a career – and are they innate or acquired? According to K. Liukaitytė, the most important skills are analytical thinking, communication, project management and the ability to adapt to a dynamic environment. Some of these are acquired during studies, but most are developed in practice.

“My education in food science, food and agricultural sciences, and business administration gave me a strong foundation and broad knowledge of the food and food ingredients industry, as well as of how business operates in the industry in which I work. My professional experience has helped me apply this knowledge in real-life situations and continue deepening it,” she says.

Knowledge is useful both at work and in the kitchen

After more than a decade working in the food sector, K. Liukaitytė also applies her knowledge in everyday life. She says that when you know what you are eating or drinking, life is not only more interesting, but also safer.

“It feels good to understand what is written on a food product label. I can also use my knowledge of food chemistry when combining food ingredients at home. I choose food products and supplements more responsibly, I am better informed about food ingredients, and I also learn a great deal about innovations and research – both technological and clinical – relating to healthier products, ingredients and innovations. With knowledge of food science, I can eat in a way that is both healthier and tastier,” she says.

She shares her knowledge not only with clients, but with a wider audience as well.

“The kitchen is where I take a break from office work. I make kombucha and homemade vinegar, bake bread and am always fermenting something. I share my culinary stories on Instagram,” says LSMU Food Science graduate Kristina Liukaitytė.

“I think it is important to focus on how to create value here and now – to work somewhere where I know that the company’s products and activities genuinely contribute to building a better and healthier world. At the moment, I am happy with my current position and workplace, but my experience and competences are growing, and my interests may also change over time, so I do not yet know where this will take me in 10 or 20 years,” says Kamilė.

The post Where Food Science Can Lead: An LSMU Graduate on Her Journey from Michelin Restaurants to Life-Saving Projects appeared first on LSMU.

His professional biography brings together experiences spanning science, practice, and health policy. He has served as a health adviser to national leaders, collaborated with the World Health Organisation, and worked on international projects abroad as well as within non-governmental organisations.

At present, Paulius Gradeckas works in both academic and managerial roles, lecturing to LSMU students whilst deepening his expertise in infectious disease epidemiology and immunoprophylaxis. His varied, dynamic career path has allowed him to freely pursue the activities that interest him, whilst making a tangible contribution to public health decisions – not only in Lithuania.

He admits with a smile that he very nearly became a journalist: he had even been listed among prospective students on a journalism course. Ultimately, however, it was his ambition to help not just individuals but society as a whole that led him to choose health sciences and studies at LSMU – a foundation that became the basis for a meaningful, dynamic, and globally impactful career.

What do the students of Public Health study?

Public health specialists – at least in Lithuania – became particularly visible during the COVID-19 pandemic. These professionals are among the first to organise measures to protect the public during flu epidemics and other infectious disease outbreaks; they conduct research into the effects of noise, air pollution, odours, and chemical substances on public health; and they develop healthy lifestyle recommendations.

Subjects taught during the programme include Lifestyle and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, Chronic Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Management, Fundamentals of Nutrition and Healthy Living, and Fundamentals of Health Policy – amongst many others.

Future specialists are also trained in practical skills: they learn to use various instruments, measuring noise levels, assessing indoor air quality, and testing the quality of drinking water. Physical activity is an important component of health promotion. Students are therefore prepared not only to motivate others and teach physical activity, but also to engage actively in sport themselves – the Faculty is fully equipped with the necessary facilities and conditions.

Those holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Health can look forward to careers in public health, occupational health, and employee safety and health, working within public health centres. They open broad opportunities to pursue professional advancement in areas such as infectious disease prevention, chronic and non-communicable disease prevention, occupational health, health education, healthcare management, and beyond.

Lessons from the pandemic

According to Gradeckas, the role of public health specialists has become more visible following the COVID-19 pandemic, though it has also grown more complex. It has become clear that infectious diseases have not disappeared and continue to pose a constant threat. At the same time, the burden of non-communicable diseases – particularly oncological conditions – has come into sharper focus, and in terms of impact, these now surpass cardiovascular disease.

The pandemic also demonstrated that preventive measures can carry not only benefits but also significant social and psychological consequences. A single specialist’s decision can affect the lives of thousands of people – which is precisely why public health decisions require not only medical expertise, but broader evaluation of diverse social aspects and specific knowledge.

“During the pandemic, public health specialists were frequently criticised, and their work was often associated with restrictions and control. Over time, however, attitudes have shifted. Today, there is growing recognition that managing the pandemic was a collective effort by specialists from various fields – from doctors to public health professionals working at the national health centre or in public health bureaux. This has strengthened the standing of our profession and demonstrated its importance at a national level,” P. Gradeckas reflects.

Diploma as an opportunity to create

P. Gradeckas emphasises that university studies are not a narrow specialisation – they are a direction and a tool.

“I cannot say that public health studies will set your life for the conventional course: school – university – job – death,” he says smiling.

“If you are after a very hands-on specialisation and want to become an expert in it, then a college or vocational school is the better choice. University should be chosen when you want a broader perspective. That specialisation may not necessarily become your bread and butter – but it will open doors. Because a diploma is, above all else, an opportunity and a tool.

And that is precisely what makes public health studies so promising and full of choices: you are given a direction, but it is up to you to decide what you want to become, where you want to go. You can develop your own practice and change people’s lives – that is lifestyle medicine. If you wish to contribute to research and discovery, there is applied public health. If you want to delve into disease outbreaks or the specifics of infectious disease epidemiology – again, applied public health is exactly what you’ll need,” the specialist explains.

P. Gradeckas notes a shift in awareness within society: the younger generation is considerably more health-conscious. An increasing number of young people are taking an interest in prevention, lifestyle, and particularly their psycho-emotional wellbeing from quite an early age. Public health specialists in such a society can therefore expect not merely to be heard, but genuinely listened to.

“Most importantly, choose a path that gives you a sense of inner peace. A diploma is not the final goal – it is an opportunity to create, to change direction, and to contribute to the wellbeing of society,” the specialist emphasised.

A vaccine that could change millions of lives

What challenge within his professional field does Paulius Gradeckas regard as the most pressing?

“One of the greatest challenges facing the world remains infectious diseases such as malaria, which claims millions of lives each year. A significant breakthrough – for instance, a highly effective and, most importantly, safe vaccine – could fundamentally transform the global situation. I very much hope that such a vaccine will emerge; it does not even need to be discovered from scratch, merely refined and adapted.

That, in essence, is what public health is about: solutions that change not one person’s life, but the lives of entire societies,” P. Gradeckas concludes.

The LSMU Faculty of Public Health offers, alongside its Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Public Health, undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degree programme in Health Psychology and graduate (Master’s) degree programme in Clinical Health Psychology.

The post From Diploma to Opportunity: LSMU Graduate on a World-Changing Vaccine that could Change the World appeared first on LSMU.

This advice comes from the doctor’s own professional experience. Having started working at an Emergency Room as early as during his second year of medical studies, the future medical doctor gained practical skills and learned the basics of a doctor’s conduct – not to be afraid of people, not to hesitate to touch or speak to patients, regardless of their social status or the health issue they present with.

“I realised that being a good doctor means being present with the person in your care,” says the doctor.

Today, Karolis Bareikis, a neurosurgeon at the Clinical Department of Neurosurgery of the LSMU Hospital Kauno Klinikos, spends many hours in the operating theatre and makes high-stakes decisions on a daily basis in treating complex, life-critical conditions – from brain and spinal tumours to vascular pathologies.    

A doctor’s work, however, is far from confined to the operating theatre. It encompasses the entire treatment process – from examining the patient and analysing diagnostic tests to post-operative care and thorough, individual preparation for each upcoming case.

Each day conventionally begins with the doctors’ pre-shift huddles, which are essentially brief, yet important, 5-minute meetings among the colleagues to discuss patient cases, establish treatment plans, and tackle the most challenging clinical questions.  The doctor also dedicates a substantial amount of time to academic activity, sharing his knowledge and experience with future doctors at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU).

Reflecting on his professional journey, he emphasises the aspects that matter most in the medical profession.

Is studying medicine difficult?

“People often ask: is studying medicine difficult? Yes, it is. Why? Because the human body is extremely complex, there is a vast amount of information about it, and that knowledge is constantly evolving,” the doctor notes.

For him, the ambition to study medicine took shape in childhood. Although there were no doctors in his family, he was influenced by strong values, role models, and encouragement from relatives. Later, real-life examples further reinforced his choice – operations performed by renowned doctors such as cardiac surgeon Professor Vytautas Sirvydis and Professor Mečislovas Vitkus, a pioneer of microsurgery in Lithuania:

“I admired them as heroes – and I wanted to become one myself. So, when the time came to choose, the path of a doctor felt natural. It also mattered that I did well in the sciences at school,” he recalls.

According to K. Bareikis, medical studies rest on three key pillars: first, students acquire theoretical knowledge; then they develop practical skills; and finally, they shape their professional conduct – their relationship with patients and with the healthcare institution:

“In the military no one is sent straight into battle. An inexperienced pilot is not entrusted with a complex aircraft. The same applies in medicine: basic skills are first learned safely – using models, mannequins, and advanced medical simulation equipment. Only later, during placements in a university hospital, do students begin to integrate their knowledge and skills into clinical practice: they communicate with patients, observe symptoms, and start to recognise what kind of health issue or diagnosis it might be.”

He is open about the fact that there is little comfort in medicine, and it is not just the beginning that is challenging. At first, due to a lack of experience and confidence, it can be difficult to communicate with patients or to trust one’s own knowledge and decisions. However, by working with people, putting in the effort, studying, and gaining experience, both self-confidence and professional competence grow over time.

A professional is shaped by more than just studies

For K. Bareikis, the first year of medical studies did not seem particularly difficult – however, a real breakthrough came in the second year. Working in the Emergency Room helped him grow as a future professional, enriching both his knowledge and life experience.

Community also played an important role during his studies. The choir he joined at the time became not only a creative space but also a network of like-minded professionals.

“We were all quite hungry for medicine, and the choir was our shared passion. When you are surrounded by people who take medicine seriously, you start to push yourself more. That circle of people has remained.

In modern medicine, it is difficult to achieve much on your own, no matter how skilled you are: in almost every field, work is performed in teams, and if you don’t have one or cannot function within one, treating patients becomes challenging,” the doctor shares.

One of the most vivid moments during his studies was encountering the true scale of surgery:

“I thought that working in the hospital emergency room, I had already seen a lot, but then we had a course in plastic and reconstructive surgery taught by Professor Rytis Rimdeika.

When the professor opened his archive of cases and photographs, I realised that I had virtually no understanding about surgery – I saw how much I still didn’t know, how vast the field is, and how much can be done within it to help people.”

This realisation became an important turning point – the moment when genuine professional growth began.

Specialisation: not a romantic endeavour, but the path towards your choice

K. Bareikis did not discover neurosurgery as his future specialisation straight away. The decision matured gradually, by ruling out other fields. Before making his final decision, he tried his hand at obstetrics and gynaecology, abdominal surgery, and thoracic surgery.

“I knew I wanted surgery. That desire to be a kind of hero never really went away,” he says with a smile.

Active curiosity, work in the hospital, involvement in student research activities, and hands-on experience in the operating theatre all helped him discover and closely observe the field of neurosurgery. Later, an opportunity arose almost by chance – a vacant niche in student research within this field, along with frequent opportunities to assist in surgery. As he became more involved in neurosurgery, it gradually grew on him.

Being a doctor: a personal dimension and self-expression

According to the neurosurgeon, the most important quality in a doctor is resilience: this is a profession where people come with their misfortunes. It is equally important to maintain professional distance, as well as physical endurance (a surgery can last many hours), strong concentration, and the ability to work in a team.

An unexpected advantage for a doctor can be a musical background. Piano training helped develop fine motor skills and sensitivity, enabling the hands to adapt to different types of tissue – from extremely delicate to firm – which is highly valuable in surgery.

He emphasises that real-life medicine differs from its idealised image: once you begin to understand diseases and their treatment, you also become aware of your own limitations. That is why what matters most is not grand slogans or overambitious claims (such as “I will cure cancer”), but consistent work and learning, along with an inner commitment to seek new solutions and keep moving forward.

With such responsibility, focus, and pressure, how does a doctor cope with stress and unwind after a demanding day?

Graduates of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences particularly emphasise the value of active, high-quality physical exercise.

For K. Bareikis, stress relief includes running and obstacle racing. One method he chooses is rather extreme – cold water immersion: “You plunge into an ice hole, and you calm down very quickly. The physical challenge leaves no time to think about problems.”

His passion for music has not disappeared either – he still sings in a choir with colleagues.

K. Bareikis’ insights for those considering a career in medicine

• Don’t commit too early to a specific speciality. It is better to choose a broader field first, rather than a narrow specialisation.
• Medical studies offer a wide range of opportunities – both in clinical practice and beyond. However, studies alone are not enough: you need to immerse yourself in the full academic life at Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, as that is where real growth happens.
• Student activities, the LSMU community, and practical experience help shape you not only as a professional but also as a person. At university, you learn to take responsibility not just for yourself, but for others as well.
• Studying medicine at LSMU is worthwhile because it opens broad opportunities for both professional and personal development. There is hardly another field as engaging, where you can become not only a medical professional but also a reliable collaborator, a health advocate, a researcher, a communicator, or an expert in areas such as health policy, health law, health economics, bioethics, and many others.

More about the medical studies at LSMU HERE.

The post Becoming a neurosurgeon: beyond the illusion of heroism appeared first on LSMU.

“The profession requires not only medical knowledge but also strong communication skills,” emphasises Evelina Alūzaitė, an anaesthesia and intensive care nurse at the Department of Anaesthesiology at the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) Kauno Klinikos, who is also an LSMU nursing graduate and a doctoral student in Nursing.

A nurse’s day is almost like two in one: work at the Department of Anaesthesiology during the day, and doctoral studies in Nursing in the evening.

First job – already during her studies

E. Alūzaitė took her first professional steps in this field during the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, administering vaccines to patients at a vaccination centre, while still studying for the bachelor’s degree in nursing at LSMU.

Today, her role as a nurse is far more complex and implies a much greater deal of responsibility. She has chosen a relatively new and highly dynamic specialisation of an anaesthesia and intensive care nurse in the operating theatre. Although each day is different, with both the nature of the surgeries and patients’ health indicators constantly changing, her core responsibilities remain the same: administering medication to ensure the patient’s comfort during surgery and providing effective pain relief while they are under anaesthesia.

From political science to nursing

E. Alūzaitė’s professional path took a different turn from what she had originally planned. At school, she was most drawn to studying political science. However, attending a nurses’ club at Kėdainiai Hospital was enough to change her initial plans.

“I visited the hospital every week, where I was able to observe the nurses’ work at close quarters and even help out a little. At first, the profession caught my interest as a meaningful and engaging activity, and gradually I realised that this was exactly what I wanted to study,” she recalls.

Her determination to pursue her chosen field was also tested during the admissions process. After not being accepted into her preferred programme on the first attempt, E. Alūzaitė enrolled in veterinary medicine at LSMU. Nevertheless, after a discussion with her family, she reapplied for nursing in the next admissions round – and was accepted.

Learning to learn is the hardest part

Looking back on her time at LSMU, E. Alūzaitė describes this period as one of the best in her life: the start of independent life and her first experience of living away from her parents. Her fellow students also played an important role – they were close-knit, friendly, supportive, and always willing to help. That support was truly needed, as she found the first year of her nursing studies the most challenging: she had to rediscover how to study, how to quickly grasp and retain large amounts of diverse information.

At school, you learn from a textbook, and tests are based only on what you have studied. At university, everything is different – exams are more demanding, and you need to engage more deeply and truly understand the material. She began exploring the study methods that suited her, using flashcards, visual notes, diagrams, and drawings.

The first patient and a forgotten introduction

During the studies, students first train in simulation labs: administering medication, performing venepuncture and other procedures using mannequins and models. However, E. Alūzaitė still vividly remembers her first real patient. Overwhelmed by stress, she even forgot to ask the patient’s name or introduce herself.

“I simply approached the patient, administered the medication – and that was it,” she recalls with a smile.

Later, she realised how important it is for patients to know who you are and what you are doing. According to the nurse, medicine is not only about technique or procedures. Sometimes, you can make a patient’s condition can be alleviated simply through conversation – care, empathy, the ability to listen, and finding the right words when working with people are not just valuable but also prerequisite qualities.

The practical skills required for the job developed over time. Nurses follow a simple rule: if a procedure does not go as planned after a few attempts – for example, locating a vein and performing a venepuncture – they call a colleague for assistance. Asking for help is not a weakness. E. Alūzaitė adds with a smile that now she is often the one being called upon.

She discovered her specific area of specialisation while studying for a Master’s degree in Advanced Nursing Practice, in the anaesthesia and intensive care programme, when she first observed a caesarean section. Realising that she wanted to work in the operating theatre, and later, specifically in anaesthesia, became the turning point in her professional life.

Learning and developing every day

Working in the operating theatre is often emotionally demanding. Some days are particularly difficult: resuscitations, acute cases, and patients in unstable conditions. The level of stress is high, as it involves responsibility for a patient’s life. However, E. Alūzaitė describes herself as calm and level-headed, and says she is able to remain composed even in highly stressful situations.

After a long day at work, she unwinds by taking a walk in nature or reading a good book. She tries to follow a clear principle: once you leave the hospital grounds, you leave work behind.

Recently, much of her time has been devoted to her doctoral studies. This field of nursing science significantly complements her work, encompassing nursing innovations, scientific research, and digital technologies. Her studies not only help her grow as a specialist but also provide a beneficial mental shift away from the demands of daily practice.

For those considering nursing studies, E. Alūzaitė advises first testing themselves in a real environment – visiting a hospital, volunteering, or otherwise observing the work at close quarters. It is important to ask yourself: am I afraid of blood? Could I work in such an environment? Do I truly feel that this is the right place for me? All other skills, she says, can be learned.

“The nursing profession offers a wide range of opportunities. You can work in a hospital ward, in primary healthcare, in emergency services, or as part of a family doctor’s team. However, it is worth simply trying it out first – it will then be much easier to find your place,” says the anaesthesia and intensive care nurse. 

The Faculty of Nursing at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) also offers other  in-demand programmes in nursing and rehabilitation: Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, or Physiotherapy.

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A large group of relatives and friends came to celebrate and congratulate the new graduates of the bachelor’s and master’s programmes of the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Sciences, Medicine, and Nursing.

The festive celebration traditionally began with the national anthem. The Chair of the Senate, Prof. Dr Jūratė Macijauskienė, welcomed the attendees.

“After countless emotional, joyful, and perhaps sometimes less joyful moments, the years of study have passed. This day gives meaning to your entire journey,” said Prof. Dr J. Macijauskienė.

During the solemn ceremony, the Chancellor of the Medical Academy, Prof. Habil. Dr Daiva Rastenytė, congratulated the graduates on their successful academic journey and reminded them that they are always welcome to return to their Alma Mater.

“Today, health professionals who have completed their studies will have the power to influence and determine the health of other people. This is truly a huge responsibility. Everything that the University’s professors have given you, everything you have gained during your practical training, volunteering, and interacting with each other, will stay with you for the rest of your lives. I congratulate you on your decision to embark on this difficult path,” said the Chancellor, addressing not only the graduates, but also their loved ones and lecturers.

Prof. Dr Mindaugas Malakauskas, Chancellor of the Veterinary Academy, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, emphasised that the graduates will become part of history.

“The diplomas awarded testify to the efforts made, the desire to acquire knowledge and skills, and remind us that the step taken a few years ago was well thought out and decisive. Every graduate is very important. Your names will be recorded in the history of our University,” said the Chancellor, expressing the gratitude to graduates for promoting the name of LSMU.

The President of the LSMU Alumni Association, Prof. Habil. Dr Ramunė Kalėdienė, encouraged graduates to stay in touch with friends and professors they met during their studies and invited them to contribute to the building of the social capital by joining the association. Meanwhile, Rugilė Kriaučiūnaitė, President of the LSMU Student Union, wished everyone success and encouraged them to continue their studies with confidence.

For three graduates of the Faculty of Animal Sciences, the graduation ceremony was even more special. Ernesta Mitkutė was awarded a Magna Cum Laude diploma for her high academic and scientific achievements, while Deimantė Sereičikaitė and Rūta Strumskytė received Cum Laude diplomas.

The culmination of the festive celebration was filled with loud applause, congratulations from loved ones and the melodious songs by performer Gabija Lokytė. Having completed their studies, the graduates are ready to share their knowledge with society, and the skills they have acquired will form the basis for responsible decisions.

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Presentation of Study Opportunities and Students’ Interest

International programme coordinators from the International Relations and Study Centre introduced students to LSMU study programmes, admission requirements, specifics of academic and student life, opportunities to engage in scientific activities and student organisations. Young people were also interested in Lithuanian culture, traditions, daily life in Kaunas, and the possibility of visiting the university during Open Days. Many visitors had already heard about LSMU, so they came to the booth looking for additional information about their chosen fields of study and the preparation required for admission.

Connecting Students with Universities

One of the aims of the event was to introduce young people to study opportunities abroad and to provide a chance to speak directly with university representatives. Participants learned about bachelor’s and master’s programmes, admission processes, academic strengths, and career prospects in the international labour market. At the LSMU booth, visitors found the latest information materials about studies, university infrastructure, scientific research, and innovation. Their interest grew even further thanks to LSMU-branded souvenirs.

An Interactive Experience: Virtual Reality

The virtual reality (VR) glasses project, initiated by the International Relations and Study Centre of LSMU, attracted significant attention. With the help of VR technology, students could “visit” university laboratories, the Medical Simulation Centre, lectures, operating rooms, and student leisure spaces. This immersive experience allowed them to see the study environment up close and to feel as if they were already part of the LSMU community.

Acknowledgement to LSMU Hospital Kauno Klinikos and Departments

The International Relations and Study Centre of LSMU would like to express its sincere gratitude to the heads and study administrators of the clinical departments of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Hospital Kauno Klinikos for their cooperation and support during the filming of virtual tours: Nose, Ear and Throat, Urology, Surgery, Genetics and Molecular Medicine, and Laboratory Medicine; the administration of the Preventive and Paediatric Dentistry and Dental and Oral Pathology Departments of the Faculty of Odontology; the administration of the Medical Academy Simulation Centre; the Faculties of Nursing and Pharmacy; and, from the Veterinary Academy, the heads of the Dr. L. Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Clinic and Large Animal Clinic, the Wildlife Rescue Centre, the Department of Food Safety and Quality, andthe Veterinary Academy Simulation Centre.

LSMU Growing More Attractive to Finnish Students

This academic year, 13 new students from Finland began their studies at LSMU, and in total, 40 Finnish citizens are currently studying at the university in English. It is expected that participation in the Helsinki “Studia” fair will inspire even more young people to choose LSMU for their academic future.

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The celebration was attended by distinguished guests and alumni: University Rector Prof. Dr Rimantas Benetis, Vice-Rector for Research Prof. Habil. Dr Vaiva Lesauskaitė, Vice-Rector for Studies Prof. Dr Kęstutis Petrikonis, President of the LSMU Alumni Association Prof. Habil. Dr Ramunė Kalėdienė, Dean of the International Relations and Study Centre Prof. Dr Ingrida Janulevičienė, Vice-Dean of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies Dr Evelina Pajėdienė, and a fairly large group of the alumni, representing the total of 324 Swedish graduates who completed their studies at LSMU over the past two decades.

The evening’s atmosphere was filled with warmth, sincere friendship, pride in shared achievements, and fond memories of the years spent in Kaunas. The event opened with an official reception accompanied by a performance by the Stockholm Lithuanian Choir Upė, which created a festive and nostalgic mood.

During the official part of the event, a welcome address was delivered by University Rector Prof Dr Rimantas Benetis, who highlighted the importance of the relationship between the University and the Swedish student community. Greetings were also conveyed by the Lithuanian Ambassador to Sweden, H.E. Linas Linkevičius, and the Swedish Ambassador to Lithuania, H.E. Lars Wahlund, both emphasising the close academic and cultural cooperation linking the two countries.

During the evening, the choir performed beloved Lithuanian and Swedish folk songs – Oi lekia lekia gulbių pulkelis and Uti i vår hage – filling the hall with emotion, pride, and a sense of togetherness.

At dinner, the President of the LSMU Alumni Association, Prof. Habil. Dr Ramunė Kalėdienė, welcomed those gathered and thanked the Swedish graduates for maintaining their connection with their Alma Mater. Inspiring reflections were later shared by Dr Egidija Šakinienė (Class of 1986) and Gaziza Shamsi (Class of 2017), who spoke about their professional experiences and their pride in being part of the LSMU community. Brief speeches were also given by Dr Jonas Nordquist, Prof. Per Svenningsson, and Andrius Veršinskas, who highlighted Kaunas’ impressive growth in recent years and the city’s increasing international profile.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was the open sharing session among alumni. Many participants spoke of their memories, expressed gratitude, and offered heartfelt words to the LSMU community. The hall resonated with laughter, warm conversations, and the joy of reuniting after many years.

The event concluded with a cultural tour of the Fotografiska museum and informal socialising. This gathering not only reflected two decades of Swedish students’ history at LSMU but also showcased the strong friendship and long-term cooperation between Lithuania and Sweden.

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