What is your favourite place in Valmiera? Why?
M: The first place that comes to my mind is Dzirnavu Lake. I like that the location is close to the centre, but at the same time it is quiet, the traffic can’t be heard as much, and there is nature, water and peace. Though lately it's not so often I come here, now we spend more time in the playground for children near the lake.
What makes Valmiera different from other cities in Latvia?
M: Unlike many other cities in Latvia, Valmiera seems to be a lively city, there is a theatre, cinema, shopping mall Valleta, there are many activities going on, but at the same time I like that there is also a lot of nature, a quiet corner can be found fairly quickly.
What was your way to Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences?
M: Already in the secondary school I was interested in mathematics, informatics, I attended the programming club. Afterwards I entered Information Technologies study programme at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, and after some time I was offered a job there, and gradually got to the current position – now I am responsible for the Information Technologies study field. But my first job was as a project manager at a small company, and when I was offered a job in ViA, I, of course, agreed. What I like the most at the university is the work with students.
What do you pay the most attention to in your daily work?
M: It seems to me that for many colleagues in the university the work is kind of seasonal. There are very intense periods - the beginning and end of the semester, and during the rest of the time there are ups and downs. The main thing is for students to be satisfied and able to gain knowledge, after all, we all work for students at the university.
Do you have any special method that helps to get yourself together in complicated situations? What is it?
M: I would not say it is a method, but support from others, my family and friends; that is my point of support.
What inspires and motivates you?
M: At work, it is definitely students, when they feel satisfied with graduating the university, with what they have acquired, then I also feel satisfied with the work done. But in everyday life, good music helps me to concentrate on work.
What is the taste of Valmiera?
M: The food I began to cook when I started to live in Valmiera, and for me it also has the association with this city, is rice with vegetables. Boil rice and fry preferred vegetables, I choose pepper, corn, green peas, but everyone can add vegetables to taste. Healthy and delicious. I also associate Valmiera with something healthy both in food and lifestyle.
