At the ceremonial presentation of the Dean's Awards at the Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, for the academic year 2024/2025, Dean Martin Repko wished everyone present a beautiful day and a wonderful start to spring. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of students who are in their "prime of life" and who not only excel academically but also actively contribute to the development of the faculty and society. "We are proud of you, all the educators and everyone who cares about your education," said the Dean, adding, "I wish you success not only throughout your professional life. This award is a reflection of how much we value you." Vice-Dean Eva Brichtová emphasized that selecting the best was not easy, given the many students, many of whom truly deserve recognition. "To put it in terms of South Moravia, it’s a selection from the grapes," the Dean quipped.
In the Czech study programs, students were awarded for:
-
Excellent Study Results: Nela Bauerová, Karolína Bořilová, Lucie Bystřická, Sabína Cviková, Markéta Horáková, Jan Horský, Andrej Hric, Vilém Hrubý, Lujza Krivošová, Michaela Lacová, Romana Michalíková, Denisa Michalková, Sylva Porubská, Kristýna Poslužná, Michaela Rybanská, Mgr. Filip Svěrák, Viktorie Svobodová, Radka Syrová, Tereza Šimáková, Adam Výrostko.
-
Significant Scientific Contribution: These students contributed to significant scientific research and were first or second authors of articles published in Q1 or Q2 impact journals: Viktorie Svobodová, Daniel Diabelko, Adam Šimo.
-
Extraordinary Contribution to the Faculty of Medicine: These students care for the development of civil society through public welfare activities, educational efforts, humanitarian aid, or achieving significant success in culture and sports: David Neuman, Daniel Vodák, and the student group of Karolína Holíková, Samuel Kečer, and Barbora Neterdová.
-
Dean's Honorary Recognition: Students were recognized for spreading the good name of the Faculty of Medicine: Libuše Čermáková, Eliška Šišperová, Marie Tormová, and the student group of Daniel Diabelko, Jiří Holek, Barbora Horniaková, and Matúš Surovčák.
The best international students were awarded the Excellence Award for:
-
Excellent Study Results: Benedetta Fiori, Ludovica Gaion, Astrid Giacomelli, Anhelina Popel, Bar Avrahami, Sergej Jakunenkow, Esmaiel Aldej, Chiara Maria Ruina, Rashid Ahmed Suleiman Hayajneh, Vinpaul Thattil Subi, Anjolaoluwa Aishat Akande, Niccolo Todesco, Hinako Nakayama, Laura Selder.
-
Extraordinary Contribution to the Faculty of Medicine: Kanako Suzuki, Corentin Bellet, Alessandro de Felice, Svenja Theiner, Andrea Noer Thuroczy, Emaan Waqar Jan.
The awarded students become a source of inspiration for their peers and the entire academic community, demonstrating the importance of an active approach to building a healthy and supportive community. They remind us that our university can be not just a center of education but also a platform for positive change and engagement with important societal issues. This ceremonial moment was a significant step in recognizing not only academic but also human values that we support at our faculty.
Below, we present the students who were awarded in all categories of the Dean's Awards, along with their answers to our questions. Some students were unable to attend the ceremony due to state final exams or study abroad. If you are also interested in the profiles of the awarded international students, you can read their messages in English here. Congratulations to all students!
In the profiles of our students awarded for Excellent study results, their achievements, personal motivation, and approach to studying, which shape them, are reflected. We asked them about what drives them to achieve such excellent results. What proven methods help them study effectively? How does the faculty support them on their journey? The students also share their future plans, including the direction of their careers and what lies ahead after graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at MU.
Benedetta Fiori
„My motivation to excel in my studies comes from my lifelong dream of becoming a dentist, and I’m grateful to study at Masaryk University, which provides the resources I need to achieve this goal. My personal ambition and passion for dentistry drive me to challenge myself and make a positive impact on people's health. After graduating, I plan to gain experience in a dental clinic or hospital for a year before specializing in orthodontics, though I am still exploring my options.“
Ludovica Gaion
„My motivation to achieve great results in my studies stems from my passion for medicine and the desire to be thoroughly prepared for my future role as a doctor. I aim to acquire as much knowledge as possible to provide the best care for my future patients. My advice for fellow students is to genuinely love what they study and remember that the challenges they face now will ultimately benefit others in the future. It's also important to acknowledge that sacrifices will be necessary, but the rewards will be worth it. As for my future career, I have always aspired to become an oncologist, and I plan to pursue this path, although I still need to choose between two countries for my practice—so we’ll see where that leads!“
Astrid Giacomelli
„A strong passion for medicine and a relentless hunger for knowledge drive me to excel in my studies, as I believe that even minor details can significantly impact diagnosis and patient care. Paying close attention to each patient while on the ward allows their unique cases to stay with me more effectively, enhancing my learning experience. Additionally, diversifying study materials helps deepen comprehension of complex topics. Looking ahead, I aspire to build a career in pediatrics, hopefully in Switzerland.“
Anhelina Popel
„My biggest motivation is my dream of becoming a good, caring, and resilient doctor. The responsibility of caring for patients drives me to continuously expand my knowledge and improve myself. I believe that consistency is key—working hard, staying curious, and always striving to understand the ‘why’ behind everything. Finding a study routine that truly works and maintaining discipline are essential. Medicine is not just about passing exams; it’s about becoming the best possible doctor for future patients. As for my future career, I’m still exploring where my path will lead, but I have a strong interest in neurology and dermatology due to their complexity and the profound impact they have on patients’ lives. Right now, my priority is to gain more clinical experience and deepen my medical knowledge. After graduation, I'm considering opportunities in German-speaking countries to further develop my skills and grow as a doctor.”
Bar Avrahami
„Support from my family and my wife motivates me immensely, as they encourage me to pursue my dreams and become the best version of myself, constantly reminding me of my worth and boosting my confidence to take on challenges. Rather than aiming for excellence, I focus on doing my best because I want to be a physician who treats patients with the care they deserve. My advice for others is to plan their schedules in advance and experiment with different study methods to find what suits them best. Looking ahead, I have developed a passion for surgery and hope to specialize in either plastic or orthopedic surgery. Although gaining acceptance into these fields in Israel requires significant effort, I will continue to strive toward this goal.“
Sergej Jakunenkow
„Great respect for the responsibility that comes with being a doctor drives me to excel in my studies, as I believe that solid knowledge is essential for making a meaningful impact and preventing harm from mismanagement. Learning is an ongoing journey, and assuming complete knowledge can lead to severe consequences for patients—something I have witnessed firsthand. To enhance my studies, I have found that spaced repetition with Anki, contextual learning, and, most importantly, consistency are key strategies. Ultimately, it's crucial to remember that studying is a marathon, not a sprint.“
Esmaiel Aldej
„My primary motivation stems from my passion for medicine and the responsibility of becoming a doctor. I believe that providing excellent patient care requires knowledge and continuous self-improvement. Striving for excellence in my studies ensures that I develop the necessary skills to help patients effectively. I prioritize consistency over intensity; studying regularly in smaller sessions aids long-term retention. Maintaining a healthy balance—taking breaks, exercising, and getting enough rest—is just as crucial as studying itself. From the start, I’ve focused on Surgery, but depending on the availability of residency spots, I might pursue Ophthalmology or a branch of internal medicine. While I haven't decided where to begin my career, I'm currently interested in job opportunities in the Czech Republic, Germany, and Ireland.“
Chiara Maria Ruina
„After graduating, I want to focus my studies on Infectious Diseases, and I have applied to Fakultní Nemocnice Bulovka in Prague. My goal is to work with rare and tropical diseases, travel, and contribute to research. My motivation stems from my dream career in the medical field; I can’t see myself doing anything else. My advice for anyone entering medicine is to discover their inner passion that keeps them going when times get tough. This passion is what drives me to persevere, as without it, the material can be overwhelming. Ultimately, I am grateful for the opportunity to prove myself.“
Rashid Ahmed Suleiman Hayajneh
„I am naturally driven and passionate about medicine, and this passion is my primary motivator for excelling in my studies. My desire to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge keeps me focused and determined. Every day, I strive to improve my skills and understanding, and I’m excited to take the next step in my career, where I can apply what I’ve learned and continue to grow. I believe that genuine passion for what you do is crucial; when you’re deeply passionate about medicine, it becomes easier to put in the effort required to excel, as you’ll naturally push yourself to improve. That passion fuels resilience, even during challenging moments. Additionally, managing your time effectively, preparing for classes, and actively engaging with friends and colleagues help with better retention of information and clarify any misconceptions. There’s no such thing as a bad question—curiosity is key. Keep asking, keep putting in the effort, and you’ll do just fine! While I haven't decided on a specific path yet, I am exploring multiple opportunities and aiming to match for residency in the US, as well as considering options in the UK and Ireland. Graduating from Masaryk University gives me the advantage to apply for residency in various countries, both in the EU and beyond. I am excited to see where my journey leads, and I am focused on finding the best environment to continue growing as a physician and contributing to healthcare.“
Vinpaul Thattil Subi
„My motivation comes from a deep-seated passion for this field and a desire to make a positive impact in the future. One invaluable piece of advice is to stay organized by setting realistic goals and ensuring you always set time aside for yourself away from the books. In the future, I aim to pursue a career as either an anesthesiologist or a surgeon. Both paths excite me because they play crucial roles in patient care and significantly impact surgical outcomes.“
Anjolaoluwa Aishat Akande
„Firstly, I understand that studying medicine is a privilege, and I carry immense gratitude toward my mother for helping make my dream a reality. Her support serves as a source of strength, especially during challenging times. Secondly, I believe that studying medicine is all about support—it takes a village! A strong support system is essential, whether from family, friends, colleagues, or faith. The ups and downs are inevitable, but having people to lean on makes facing adversity more manageable, as adversity is part of all great achievements! Lastly, I recognize that success is neither uniform nor linear, nor is it scarce; I am constantly learning and drawing inspiration from the achievements of my colleagues. Whatever specialty I choose, my passion for health equity will guide my career, and I hope to be a strong advocate for equal access to healthcare, education, and information, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can receive quality care."
Nicollo Todesco
„I am deeply motivated to study hard because I recognize how fortunate I am to pursue medicine in a foreign country. Many would love this opportunity, and I don't take it for granted. This gratitude pushes me to give my best every day. My family’s unwavering support has also been invaluable; I couldn’t have done this without them. My advice to students is that there’s no magic formula—only hard work driven by genuine inspiration. Discover the true reason behind your efforts, and everything else will follow. After my time at Masaryk University, I’ve met people from around the world, and while I’m uncertain about my specific career path, I’m excited to explore opportunities. What matters is being the best version of myself, both as a physician and as a person, ready to serve in the next generation of healthcare professionals.“
Hinako Nakayama
„My motivation throughout my studies comes from the unwavering support and encouragement of my family and friends, who have been my backbone during these challenging years. Knowing that each exam I pass brings me one step closer to realizing my future goals has been a constant source of inspiration and determination. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at Masaryk University, I plan to begin my career in Japan. Although I’m uncertain about where I will ultimately settle, I feel fortunate that my education has opened many doors for my future. The diverse experiences I've had here have broadened my perspective, and I’m genuinely excited to see where this journey will take me and how I can contribute to healthcare along the way.“
Laura Selder
„My motivation throughout my studies stems from my lifelong dream of becoming a doctor, which has been my priority for the last six years. I have focused on learning as much as possible to provide quality care for my future patients. Keeping my end goal in mind and envisioning myself working in my dream profession has been a constant driving force. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at Masaryk University, I plan to return to my home country, Germany, to begin my residency in Pediatrics.“
In this series, we introduce students who have received the Dean's Award for their extraordinary contributions to the Faculty of Medicine at Masaryk University. These students have significantly enhanced the reputation of the Faculty and society through their dedication and activities.
Kanako Suzuki was honored with the Dean’s Award for her outstanding contributions to research and her efforts in representing the faculty abroad. Among her significant achievements was her participation in a research project during an internship at the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, where she contributed to a scientific article on mitochondrial changes associated with ageing. Additionally, she co-authored the article Navratil et al., Long-term zinc treatment alters the mechanical properties and metabolism of prostate cancer cells.
Kanako Suzuki
„My motivation to achieve good results stems from my enjoyment of lectures and practical training, which continuously provide new insights. The invaluable support from my friends and the guidance of my professors have also contributed greatly to my success. My advice is to always ask questions and seek help when needed. Looking ahead, I aim to build on my previous research while learning new techniques. I plan to explore an original project that combines mitochondria, mechanobiology, and interdisciplinary approaches, while also gaining experience in in vivo experiments to enhance my research.“
Corentin Bellet was recognized with the Dean’s Award for his exceptional leadership and contributions as the president of MIMSA in 2024. During his tenure, he organized a series of welcome events to help incoming students settle into life in Brno and at the university, providing crucial support to both preclinical and clinical students at the start of each semester. He also partnered with three local charities in Brno—David Nott Foundation, SMACI, and Medici Na Ulici - and led impactful initiatives such as charity tournaments, raffles, and a charity week. These efforts raised an impressive 210,000 CZK, which was donated to the partner charities and the Masaryk Oncology Center.
Corentin Bellet
„I'm motivated by my goal of becoming a nephrologist and the positive impact I can have on patients' lives; knowing that my hard work will lead to better care keeps me focused. For studying, I utilize active recall and spaced repetition with Anki, and I find that teaching concepts to others solidifies my understanding. Maintaining a structured schedule and using the Pomodoro technique helps me stay efficient and avoid burnout. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at MU, I plan to specialize in nephrology and begin my career in Luxembourg, where I will complete an internal medicine residency before further specializing. I'm also researching Luxembourg's medical licensing requirements to ensure a smooth transition.“
These four students were awarded for their roles as Ambassadors. In this prestigious position, they embody the values and achievements of the faculty, showcasing its excellence both locally and internationally.
Alessandro de Felice
„I’m driven by the desire to push medicine forward, knowing the knowledge I gain could one day save lives or improve quality of life. My advice for studying is to stay curious—don’t just memorize, but deeply understand by breaking down topics and asking 'Why?' and 'How?' Consistency is also key; small daily progress creates lasting results. In the future, I want to focus on research and innovation, working on breakthroughs that advance medical treatments and leave a meaningful impact. While I haven’t decided where to start after graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at MU, I’m actively exploring opportunities in medical research.“
Svenja Theiner
„My motivation has always been to become a good surgeon. Keeping this goal in mind helped me stay focused and work hard throughout my studies. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at MU, I will begin my specialization in plastic and reconstructive surgery in autumn 2025 at the department in Murnau (Germany), which is my absolute dream job.“
Andrea Noer Thuroczy
„What motivates me most in my studies is the drive to see how far I can go when I give my best effort. I push myself to reach my full potential, knowing that what I learn now will shape my future work and have a real impact on the people I will help. That sense of responsibility keeps me focused and committed. My study advice is to find a motivated study partner, as it makes a huge difference, and to set clear timeframes for studying and breaks—whether it’s meeting friends, doing sports, or just resting. After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine at MU, I’ll move back to Norway to start my medical career. I aim to specialize in endocrinology, though I’m open to other paths. Leaving Brno, which has become a second home to me, will be bittersweet, but I’ll always cherish the memories and the life I built here.“
Emaan Waqar Jan
„I’m driven by my passion for dentistry and the goal of providing the best care for my future patients. Winning the Dean’s Award twice has proven to me that hard work and consistency pay off. My advice is to stay organized, balance studies with life, and stay motivated. Challenges are inevitable, but with determination and persistence, you can overcome them. It’s also important to make time for yourself and your friends to maintain perspective and prevent burnout. After graduating this year from the Faculty of Medicine, MU, I plan to work as a dentist in Scotland, UK. I’m looking forward to gaining hands-on experience, growing as a clinician, and building meaningful relationships with my patients. My studies at the Faculty of Medicine have given me a solid foundation in dentistry as well as invaluable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication, which I plan to carry into my professional practice.“
Awards for Students in Czech Study Programs (in Czech language only)
Photogallery
