Having recently completed his second year of Nursing studies, Usama says he is delighted with his choice. His studies have lived up to his expectations, with practical training proving to be the most rewarding part of the programme.

“The most interesting part of the programme is the clinical placement. We work directly with patients in hospitals. The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the patients you care for recover. Moments like these strengthen my motivation even further,” said the future nurse, who is enthusiastic about the profession he has chosen.

According to Usama, practical training is one of LSMU’s greatest strengths, as it enables students to apply theoretical knowledge in real clinical settings and prepares them for their future careers.

He encourages prospective students to set clear goals from the very beginning of their studies and emphasises that success requires both diligence and perseverance.

“At times, studying feels like an intense thriller – there is certainly no shortage of challenges. However, everything becomes easier when you know what you want to achieve and have a clear goal in mind,” he says.

Asked whether he would recommend studying in Lithuania to other international students, Usama has no hesitation.

“I would definitely recommend studying in Lithuania, especially at LSMU. The University places great emphasis on practical training, which is one of the cornerstones of medical education. Here, students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also invaluable practical experience,” the international student concludes.

The post International Nursing Student at LSMU: Practical Training – the Most Rewarding Part of the Experience appeared first on LSMU.

Studies opened a new path

Although Ernestas chose the Clinical Health Psychology programme at the LSMU Faculty of Public Health rather spontaneously, it was at the University that he discovered his true interests, developed a passion for academic life and embraced the full student experience.

“At school, I did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to do in the future. Choosing Clinical Health Psychology was a fairly spontaneous decision, but I can now confidently say that it was the right one,” says the Master’s student.

Ernestas first learned about the opportunity to study Clinical Health Psychology in English through friends who were already studying at LSMU. After finding out more about the programme, he decided to give it a try.

“I am not originally from Kaunas, so I knew very little about LSMU beforehand. However, my friends strongly recommended the University. In addition, at the time no other university in Lithuania offered such a programme in English,” he explains.

A wealth of opportunities at the University

According to Ernestas, university studies bring plenty of challenges, but the LSMU academic community is open and welcoming, and this supportive environment motivates students to grow and achieve their full potential.

“At the University, I really threw myself into my studies, and I have been doing very well academically. Other students even come to me for help. Before coming here, I did not realise how strong my academic drive was. Alongside my studies, there is volunteering, constant interaction with people from all over the world and the opportunity to experience different cultures. All of this allows you to make the most of student life,” he says.

Ernestas is confident that university offers far more than a degree, which is why he encourages students not to limit themselves to lectures and examinations alone.

“University is like an ocean of opportunities. Stay curious, be active, do not be afraid to meet new people, get involved in extracurricular activities and volunteering, and make the most of every opportunity. Every experience can become a valuable lesson,” he emphasises.

Rediscovering his homeland

Returning to Lithuania was important for Ernestas not only because of his studies but also because of his personal connection with his homeland. Although Lithuanian, he had spent many years living abroad and wanted to rediscover the country from a new perspective. He also rediscovered Kaunas. Although he initially felt somewhat uncertain and missed his former home, the city quickly became a place where he truly belonged.

“I vividly remember my first day in Kaunas – a sunny August afternoon at the airport. Before long, this city felt like home,” he recalls.

According to Ernestas, Kaunas has a distinctive charm, with its abundance of green spaces, parks and rivers, as well as a more relaxed pace of life than many of Europe’s major cities.

“Lithuanians may seem rather reserved at first, but once you get to know them, their sincerity and willingness to help become clear,” he concludes.

The post A Former Lithuanian Expat Finds His Academic Path at LSMU appeared first on LSMU.

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.

“Freemasons are increasingly re-engaging with society. They have always stood for the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity. Those who upheld these ideals were often at the forefront of change, as these values were central to their lives. Partnerships between Masonic organisations and research institutions are well established around the world, and we are pleased to see similar initiatives becoming increasingly prominent in Lithuania,” said a representative of the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge.

The scholarship recipient was selected following a meeting of the Board of the LSMU Science Fund held on 27 April 2026, during which nine outstanding doctoral students’ applications were assessed. Candidates were evaluated on the basis of their scientific achievements, publications, participation in research projects and other criteria established in the University’s Regulations on Research Activities. Following a thorough review of the applications, the Board selected Darius Stukas as this year’s scholarship recipient.

The Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship, established by the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge, aims to encourage promising early-career researchers and recognise their contribution to scientific advancement. The scholarship is named in honour of physician Giedrius Andziukevičius, who served for many years as Director of the Kaunas Dainava Polyclinic. Throughout his career, he was committed to improving the quality of healthcare services, promoting innovation and creating a more patient-centred healthcare system.

Darius Stukas is pursuing doctoral studies in Biology within the field of Natural Sciences under the supervision of Professor Žilvinas Dambrauskas. His research focuses on the biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. By advancing the understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying one of the most aggressive forms of cancer, his work has the potential to contribute to the development of new diagnostic and treatment approaches.

According to the scholarship recipient, the award represents important recognition of the work he has undertaken during his doctoral studies.

“The award of this scholarship demonstrates that research into the biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is both important and highly relevant. I regard it not only as a personal achievement but also as encouragement to continue my research and pursue new scientific achievements. I am sincerely grateful to my doctoral supervisor, our research group and my colleagues for their constant support, valuable discussions and encouragement. I would also like to thank the scholarship sponsors for their trust in young researchers and for promoting their scientific research,” says Darius Stukas.

Alongside his doctoral studies, Darius Stukas is actively involved in both research and academic work. He is employed as a Junior Researcher at the Surgical Gastroenterology Laboratory of the Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, LSMU. He also lectures at the Department of Surgery and the Department of Biochemistry at the Faculty of Medicine, and serves as a Junior Assistant at the Institute of Biological Systems and Genetic Research, Faculty of Animal Sciences, Veterinary Academy, LSMU.

On behalf of the University, Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department, expressed her appreciation for Darius Stukas’ contribution to the future of medicine.

“This recognition is of great importance to our entire research community and represents a meaningful tribute to the memory of Giedrius Andziukevičius. Today, Darius is conducting research of considerable importance, requiring exceptional concentration, long hours in the laboratory and great perseverance. Your recognition and financial support are therefore a truly valuable gift. This is tangible support that contributes to the advancement of future medicine and may one day help save lives. Your generosity sets an outstanding and inspiring example for society as a whole,” she said.

On 17 April, prior to the award ceremony held at the Pažaislis Monastery, the benefactors met last year’s scholarship recipient, Jolita Stabrauskienė, a doctoral student at the Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, LSMU. During their visit, they were introduced to the activities of the LSMU Pharmacy and invited to visit the Faculty of Pharmacy.

The first Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship was awarded in 2024 to Karolina Mėlinytė-Ankudavičė, a doctoral student in Cardiology at LSMU.

The scholarship is awarded annually to doctoral researchers whose scientific achievements and academic activities demonstrate outstanding professionalism, commitment and a significant contribution to scientific progress.

During the scholarship presentation ceremony, the benefactors thanked the Rector of LSMU for the University’s commitment to supporting promising young researchers.

“This University, under the leadership of Professor Rimantas Benetis, is an excellent example of how the next generation of scientists should be nurtured,” they said.

Special thanks were also extended to Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department.

“Having witnessed Professor Ulozienė’s exceptional professionalism in supporting young researchers and her outstanding leadership of the Research Affairs Department, this year we looked for ways to provide even greater encouragement by increasing the value of the scholarship. We have now done so. We sincerely hope to strengthen this cooperation in the

years ahead. With leaders such as these, we can achieve a great deal,” said the representative of the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge.

“We congratulate Darius Stukas on receiving the Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship and wish him every success in his future research. This scholarship has already become a valued tradition, and next year we will once again invite doctoral students to apply,” the representative concluded during the award ceremony, attended by Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department, members of Giedrius Andziukevičius’ family and other invited guests.

The post Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship Awarded to LSMU Doctoral Student Darius Stukas appeared first on LSMU.

Studies that exceeded expectations

“I always knew that I wanted to study Physiotherapy because I have always been fascinated by the human body and by the ways we can help people maintain good health. I also enjoy sport, so it felt like a natural choice for me,” says the third-year student.   

When exploring study options, Patrick was looking for universities offering Physiotherapy programmes in English. Although he considered several institutions, LSMU made the strongest impression.

“LSMU stood out because of its reputation, modern facilities and the opportunities it offers. I read many positive reviews about the University and the learning environment, so the decision was quite straightforward,” he says.

According to Patrick, he first learned about LSMU through EUNICAS, a European university course search platform, and the programme has exceeded his expectations.

“What impresses me most are the lecturers. They are friendly, professional and genuinely care about their students. You can tell they want to help you not only understand the material but also develop and succeed,” he explains sharing that it is not just about the knowledge he has gained but also the new connections and experiences that have come with studying abroad.

The beginning, however, was not without its challenges. His first year of studies was demanding as he adapted to a new environment and a different educational system.

“At first, it was difficult to settle in, but over time everything became much easier. It was a gradual process,” he says.

Patrick emphasises that one of the most important aspects of university life is making full use of the opportunities available. In particular, he recommends the University Library, where students can access not only a wide range of academic resources but also anatomical models and dedicated spaces for group study.

A cultural experience

Although moving to Lithuania was not Patrick’s first visit to the country, living here as a student has provided a completely different experience. He has Lithuanian roots and frequently visited relatives in Lithuania throughout his childhood.

“Once I came here to study, I was able to see what everyday life in Lithuania is really like. And I genuinely enjoy it,” he says.

Comparing Lithuania and Ireland, Patrick notes a number of similarities. Both countries are known for their rainy weather and their fondness for potatoes. However, he found Lithuanian cuisine to be far more diverse than he had expected. His favourite dishes include potato pancakes with meat filling and vedarai – traditional Lithuanian potato sausages.

When asked whether he would recommend Lithuania to international students and visitors, Patrick had no hesitation.

“Lithuania has beautiful nature, with countless forests and rivers. It is also a country with a fascinating history and a unique language. I would definitely recommend coming here to study and to experience the country first-hand,” he concludes.

The post Irish Student Fulfils His Dream by Coming to Kaunas to Study 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.

During this period, the visiting students enhanced their professional knowledge, became acquainted with a different academic environment and culture, and broadened their horizons by exploring the country.

On 24 April, a ceremony marking the end of the visit was held at the LSMU Emmanuel Levinas Centre. During the meeting, the students from the International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW) in Japan were presented with clinical placement certificates.

“I am certain that some of you will become outstanding specialists in your fields. Perhaps in the future we shall see your names in academic publications and feel proud. I hope that these four weeks have helped you decide what you truly want and have provided you with experience that you will be able to draw upon in your future careers,” said Prof. Dr Ingrida Janulevičienė, Dean of the University’s International Relations and Studies Centre, in her address to the students.

The students from Japan, who had arrived in Lithuania at the end of March, were each provided with individually tailored programmes, allowing them to gain first-hand experience not only of academic study but also of clinical work.

“You worked alongside other students in operating theatres and are a truly remarkable example. It is important to note that you came not only for yourselves and your own experience, but for us as well. Our academic staff who worked with you may not have had any specific expectations but afterwards emphasised that they too had learnt from you. And that is what matters most,” said Prof. Dr Andrius Macas, Dean of the University’s Faculty of Medicine, highlighting the value of the exchange.

The students from Japan expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome and their time filled with memorable experiences. As Haruki Kitamura, the leader of the Japanese student group, noted, the programme had been meticulously planned, and the month in Lithuania had passed remarkably quickly.

“I was very anxious when we arrived. Not one of us had ever been to Lithuania before. We were not sure whether we would feel welcome. But it turned out there was nothing to worry about. The entire University community is very friendly. We learnt about a different culture, cuisine, and language, met new people, and formed new friendships,” said H. Kitamura, expressing sincere gratitude to the organisers for the experience.

His sentiments were echoed by fellow student Keito Tashiro, who was most struck by his experience in the operating theatre.

“It was truly brilliant! Everyone was kind and welcoming. I particularly enjoyed the placement at the hospital – I observed surgeries and doctors working at an extraordinary pace. In Japan there tend to be around two surgeries per day, so it came as quite a surprise that in Lithuania there are so many, and that they are carried out so swiftly. The culture differs as well – Lithuanian students are confident and outgoing. But what impressed me most of all was the architecture,” recounted K. Tashiro, for whom this was his first visit not only to Lithuania, but to Europe as a whole.

There was no shortage of cultural activities either – the visiting students were invited to the Lithuanian Museum of the History of Medicine and Pharmacy, the University’s Museum of Anatomy, the Emmanuel Levinas Centre, the Sugihara House, and the Curonian Spit (Nida), the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A reciprocal visit by LSMU students to IUHW is already being planned for this coming autumn.

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