From Estonia to Milan, veterinarian Veera Koponen is advancing equine care and veterinary research.
A recent graduate of the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMU), Veera Koponen is pursuing her passion for equine internal medicine through an intensive internship at EMU’s Equine Clinic. Alongside clinical practice, she teaches veterinary students and stays engaged with the latest research. Veera has expanded her clinical skills and explored research management. Her programme in Milan included observing research coordination, supporting academic initiatives, and assisting in scientific events, all while gaining insights into veterinary research environments. A highlight was her job shadowing in Milan, at an equine clinic and the Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering. There, Veera observed advanced treatments and procedures, many of which she plans to integrate into veterinary practice and teaching in Estonia. The experience also helped her build valuable academic connections, improve her communication skills, and broaden her career horizons. Veera’s journey is a pivotal step toward her goal of becoming a specialist in equine internal medicine, with her growing expertise poised to benefit both her career and the future of veterinary care in Estonia and Finland.
This experience was made possible by One Health Estonia (OH-Boost.eu), with special thanks to Dr Alireza Fazeli, Dr. Suranga Kodithuwakku, Urszula Malińska-Mark, Amita Kulina, and Dr. Felipe Corrêa, whose support greatly enriched her journey. Veera look forward to bringing this knowledge back to her work at EMÜ Equine Clinic, contributing to the ongoing advancement of veterinary care in Estonia.
