Exploring Veterinary Medicine Across Cultures: Safa’s Study Experience in Estonia

Safa Haidherali, a Veterinary Medicine student at the Estonian University of Life Sciences, brings a truly international perspective to her studies. Originally from Japan, she has grown up in a multicultural environment, travelling extensively with her family and gaining exposure to different cultures from an early age. This background made the idea of studying abroad feel natural – an opportunity not just for education, but for new experiences.

Interest in veterinary medicine and career choice

Her interest in veterinary medicine developed from a broader passion for science. What drew her to the field was its diversity and the opportunity to combine hands-on work with meaningful impact.

“Veterinary medicine is a field where you’re constantly learning and solving problems,” she says. “It’s diverse, evolving, and something I could really see myself contributing to.”

Choosing the programme and hands-on learning

When choosing where to study, Safa was looking for a programme that offered both strong academic foundations and practical experience. The Estonian University of Life Sciences stood out for its English-taught curriculum and emphasis on hands-on learning.

“What I liked most was that the programme exposes you to many different areas from clinical work to research and animal production,” she explains. “It gives you the chance to explore and figure out what suits you best.”

She describes her study experience in three words: perseverance, adventure, and growth. While the programme is academically demanding, it is also highly rewarding. Students are introduced to practical and clinical work early on, which helps keep motivation high.

“You get involved quite early, even while building your theoretical foundation,” Safa says. “As you progress, the studies become more clinical and hands-on.”

Naine istub laua taga ja vaatab kaamerasse

Student life and cultural experiences in Estonia

Beyond academics, student life in Tartu has been an important part of her experience. Although the city is relatively small, it offers a vibrant student atmosphere alongside easy access to nature.

“There’s always something happening – cafes, events, student activities – but what I love most is how close nature is,” she says. “You can be in a forest or by a lake within minutes.”

Safa also highlights the unexpected moments that make studying abroad memorable. From participating in Student Days to trying Estonian folk dancing with friends, she has embraced new experiences that she never imagined herself doing.

Living in Estonia has also brought cultural discoveries. Coming from a large city, she was surprised by the slower and calmer pace of life and found herself appreciating it more than expected. Adjusting to cultural differences, such as the value placed on personal space, was part of the learning process.

“At first, people can seem a bit distant,” she reflects. “But once you understand the culture, you realise people are actually very kind.”

Future outlook and advice for prospective students

Looking ahead, Safa remains open about her future. While she enjoys life in Estonia and could see herself staying, she prefers to keep her options open.

“If you’d asked me six years ago, I would’ve never imagined ending up in Estonia,” she says. “So I really have no idea where life will take me next — and I’m open to it.”

For prospective students, Safa has a clear message: be ready to take initiative and step outside your comfort zone.

“Every adventure has its ups and downs,” she says. “But it helps you grow and build your future.”