During the visit, she worked on data analysis at the THL offices every day, that gave her the opportunity to meet many colleagues involved in the trial of the MET-FINGER study, Multidomain Lifestyle Intervention + Metformin. Including the study physician, some of the dietitians, the physiotherapist, and senior researchers.
– I am hoping to collaborate with them in future projects, and I also look forward to collaborating with Finnish PhD students. I am using the FINGER data for my PhD, so this was the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding and strengthen collaborations. The timing felt right, as I am halfway through my PhD, Ana Sabsil says.
– I tried to make the most of my time there.
I met one of the statisticians in the group, Esko Levälahti, and senior researchers Jenni Lehtisalo and Tiia Ngandu. That meeting was very useful, as I was able to discuss some of my results with them, and they provided valuable ideas for upcoming studies, Ana Sabsil continues.
She stayed very close to the THL campus to save time and work efficient. But, there was also time for reflection.
– The weather was very pleasant, sunny and mild. and I enjoyed walking around the city most afternoons. I also visited some of the main tourist attractions, recommended by Finnish colleagues, such as Helsinki Cathedral, Esplanadi, the Hietaniemi area, and the Helsinki Central Library, and also made a stop in a non-very touristic place, a Cat-cafe called Helkatti. I also tried some typical Finnish food. My favorite Karjalanpiirakka, Karelian pies, which are small rice pies, Lohikeitto, a salmon soup and Helsburger.
Next time to apply for SWEAH travel grant will be in spring 2026.
