Klaudia Nowak-Marchewka M.Sc., Jordan Wilk M.Sc.
Second year of studies at the Doctoral School
Discipline: Environmental engineering, mining and power engineering
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences

Between December 7, 2024, and January 6, 2025, we had the pleasure of participating in an international internship at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Our academic supervisor was Prof. Dr. Paulius Matusevičius, a highly respected figure in the field of animal science and environmental health. His research specializes in animal nutrition, physiology, and the quality of animal-derived products, with a particular focus on sustainable and health-promoting practices in animal husbandry. Prof. Matusevičius has made a significant impact on animal science and environmental research, making his interdisciplinary expertise directly relevant to our doctoral dissertation research topics.

Prof. dr. Paulius Matusevičius & us

The internship was conducted under the STER NAWA – I-SDUPL program. It provided an excellent opportunity to expand our knowledge and research competencies while also experiencing a new culture and daily life in a Baltic country. During the internship, we had the opportunity to collaborate with outstanding specialists in veterinary medicine, environmental engineering, and sustainable development. This allowed us to gain valuable practical experience and establish connections that may lead to future international collaborations. Thanks to the support of our academic supervisor, we had access to state-of-the-art research tools and resources that enriched our scientific skills.

The Lithuanian University of Health Sciences is a leading institution in the fields of health sciences and environmental research, internationally recognized for its contributions to sustainable development and public health. The University’s scientific and technological infrastructure is impressive, and its historic campus is distinguished by beautiful architecture.

During our exploration of the campus, we visited two academic museums. The Museum of the Veterinary Academy in Kaunas is a unique place that documents the history of veterinary medicine, agriculture, and medicine in Lithuania and the region. Located at the Medical University in Kaunas, the museum serves educational and scientific purposes, housing valuable exhibits related to the development of these fields. The Museum of Biology and Anatomy is another exceptional place with a rich tradition. It was created with students of medicine, biology, veterinary science, and other natural sciences in mind.

However, the internship in Lithuania was not only an opportunity for academic growth. The country captivated us with its beauty, culture, and the hospitality of its people. We were particularly impressed by Kaunas, the city where we lived and worked. Strolling through the streets of Kaunas, we admired its historic buildings, such as St. Peter and Paul Cathedral and Kaunas Castle. The charming banks of the Neman and Neris Rivers, along with atmospheric cafes, created a unique ambiance that made every day an extraordinary experience.

During our stay, we also visited Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, which enchanted us with its rich history and remarkable architecture. We wandered through the narrow streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marveling at landmarks such as the Gate of Dawn, St. Anne’s and Bernardine Churches, and the breathtaking view from Gediminas Tower. Vilnius captivated us with its atmosphere, seamlessly blending history with modernity.

One of the most unforgettable aspects of our visit was participating in the Christmas market in Kaunas. The festive atmosphere, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread, and the handcrafted goods by local artisans put us in a magical mood. It was an excellent opportunity to learn about Lithuanian Christmas traditions and to savor regional specialties such as cepelinai, kibinai, and Žemaičių pancakes. These flavors will remain with us for a long time.

In conclusion, our internship in Lithuania was an immensely valuable experience that brought us numerous academic and personal benefits. The country charmed us with its beauty, culture, and hospitality, and the time spent in Kaunas and Vilnius will remain in our memories forever. We believe that the experience and new connections gained will significantly contribute to our future scientific careers.