Venla-Linnea Karjalainen

Who are you?

I am a medical student at Tampere University and alongside my medical studies, I work on research in hand surgery and orthopaedics.

Favorite part of your job?

The "detective work" and problem-solving. I especially enjoy the analysis phase, there’s something deeply satisfying about building a working script, tackling a question with data, and eventually finding an answer.

Why did you decide to enter your field?

I’ve been interested in science since childhood, which led me to pursue medicine. While clinical work is about helping the individual, high-quality research has the power to change how we treat thousands of people, and I want to be part of that process.

Who/What inspires you?

I’m inspired by my parents and grandparents, each of whom has shaped my values and approach in their own way.

The most interesting article you’ve read recently?

One article I found particularly interesting and thought-provoking is Polarisation in medicine: how can we better engage with people who disagree with us? by Dr. Elspeth Davies.

Your favorite book and why?

I enjoy a good mystery novel because I love piecing together clues and trying to solve the puzzle before the ending is revealed. Some of my favourites include Agatha Christie’s classics and books by Joël Dicker.

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