Sanna Viitanen

Who are you, what do you do and how long have you worked at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine?

Sanna ViitanenI am Sanna Viitanen and I work as a hospital veterinarian and deputy clinical instructor in the internal medicine ward at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. I have now worked for about six years at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. My career here began during my specialist studies in 2010. By then, I had already been interested in internal medicine for several years, and after I completed my specialist studies, the fascinating patient material and friendly colleagues here at the University compelled me to stay at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

What stands out as important in your work in 2015?

In addition to treating patients, I have devoted half my working hours to my duties as a supervisory teacher at the Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine. This has meant that I have been involved in many projects related to teaching and its development in 2015. Educational planning and development has given me new and interesting perspectives, and I hope the work we have done has also supported students’ learning during the clinical period.

What is the best thing about your work?

I enjoy many aspects of my work. Practical work with patients is naturally one of the most important areas of my job. At best, working with patients is challenging and rewarding, and almost every case teaches me something new. In addition, specialist veterinarians in various areas often collaborate with each other here at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, which is really useful. Then again, clinical research and the research projects in which I have participated have provided me with new knowledge and viewpoints and added a profound dimension to patient work. I also enjoy teaching and interacting with students.

What are your plans for 2016?

I will continue to work with patients, teach and act as a supervisory teacher. The only special wish I have for 2016 is to finish my doctoral dissertation. Its public examination is scheduled for autumn 2016.