Stefanija Sekuloska, student at InnoRenew CoE

• Where were you living in childhood and where do you live now?

I grew up in Prilep, Macedonia, and then moved to Koper, Slovenia, to pursue my bachelor’s degree.

• What have you studied and what were the motives for your decision?

I chose to study Bioinformatics at UP FAMNIT because it represents an elegant and futuristic junction of all the natural sciences that I’ve been interested in. I like that it broadens your research area and lays the foundation for you to build upon in multiple fields.

• How would you describe your work to someone outside your field?

I help in a lab where the main project is focused on developing a biofilm with the help of fungi, aimed at protecting wood and prolonging its functionality and lifespan.

• What does your typical working day look like?

The best part about my work is that you can’t define a typical working day. There’s no risk of monotony, as you work with different people on various experiments, depending on what’s required during that period.

• What makes you excited about your work?

It’s the people – their positivity and kindness; the endless opportunities to learn; the unpredictability of what each day will bring (even if it’s planned); and the dynamic nature of it all.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

As much as I enjoy the dynamics, it can sometimes be a challenge to keep up with everything that’s happening and be present everywhere. Luckily, we have great colleagues who are always ready to fill you in if you miss something.

• Which scientist or scientific achievement are you fascinated by and why?

Smaller or bigger, all scientific achievements have contributed to enabling us to live the life we do today. To avoid being vague, I’ll highlight the discovery of insulin, which has saved thousands and thousands. The story behind it is powerful – while the last child receives the insulin shot, the first child is already waking up; the relief and happiness felt by the parents, which fills the room, is an image that stays with you. Moreover, the fact that insulin continues to save lives today is a testament to the enduring power of scientific discovery and the selflessness of those who made it possible.

• Tell us about the work of art (books, music, movies, theatre, dance, visual arts) that has a special place in your life.

Usually, I like to give everything a chance. In every work of art and every form of art, there is value, inspiration, and emotion to be found. However, the ones that leave the deepest impression on me are those that I discover at the perfect moment – precisely when they reflect the way I experience my daily life during that period. I still haven’t found the piece that captures this moment in my life. Yet, perhaps the most beautiful, fulfilling, and liberating feeling for me is when I create something myself. That’s why I’ve developed various hobbies over the years, from decoupage and filigree to jewellery making and photography.

• What have you read, listened to, or watched lately?

 A way to stay in touch with the artistic side of life, which I enjoy these days, is to read one haiku every day from a random page that opens that day in the book Lips too chilled by Matsuo Bashō. It’s fascinating how just a few words can trigger a series of thoughts and emotions, always finding a way to resonate with what’s written, even if it’s just a simple landscape image described. Sitting in the comfort of your home after an active day, you’ll find yourself in nature’s post-rain serenity.

• Which place on the Slovene coast do you like the most?

From the places I’ve visited so far, Piran has won my heart with its tranquillity.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

I’m currently in a period (if not the whole of my life) where every new piece of knowledge excites me and inspires me further. I’m fortunate enough in life to be able, whenever I need a little boost to rekindle and awaken my enthusiasm, to simply sit by the sea. That’s all I need – a walk in nature, a short trip – a break from the everyday, art/music and good company,.. simply life itself.

• Characterize your life’s guidance or an important realization (or epiphany) you have experienced.

Respond to everything with love. It is an endless source that, the more you use it, the more it fills you.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

The smell of wood and the warm feeling it brings to a space evoke a sense of home and nostalgia… it’s a connection to nature.