Emilia Piltonen

Emilia Piltonen
Emilia PiltonenTell us about your role at the University.

I am working as a research assistant in the MOSAICC study under Prof. Lesley Anderson.

What brought you to the University of Aberdeen?

To be completely honest, I was brought here by chance. I started my undergraduate programme in Anthropology and Psychology at University of Aberdeen in 2020 as I have always been wanting to move to the UK. At the time, it was cheaper (financially speaking) to study in Scotland rather than anywhere in the UK. I am very grateful for ending up here.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

I truly enjoy the variation of tasks to do as a research assistant, all from speaking with participants, communicating with study sites and the general admin/paperwork for the study.

What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time to relax?

I love painting and drawing as it helps me to distress and to solely focus on one thing when my head is busy. Otherwise, I love cooking food together with my partner Liam and spending quality time with my family.

What made you choose this career?

I really did just stumble into this career path from the start. As an undergraduate, I was working part-time at the MOSAICC study helping with participant interviews and progressed with a full-time employment after graduating. I believe that my job role is a perfect fit for me as I am seeking experience within research and simultaneously finding out what career/academic path I want to continue with. 

What do you think is the most challenging part about your job?

Even though I enjoy the multiple tasks of working as a research assistant, it can also be quite challenging to keep up with them. Especially as a newly graduate with limited research experience. However, you learn as you go, and I have wonderful colleagues helping me on the way.

What is an accomplishment in life you are proud of?

To have the courage to follow my dreams, however big or small they are.

Who has inspired you in your life and why?

I have so many people in my life that I look up to, but my mum is definitely  nr. 1. She have taught me that anything is possible as long as you work hard for it and believe in yourself. She is simply the coolest person ever.