Back to Her Roots: Aija Skvarkovska’s Teaching Career at Paula Stradiņa College

From September 2023 to March 2025, certified podiatrist Aija Skvarkovska taught at the Paula Stradiņa College of the University of Latvia—one of Latvia’s leading educational institutions, which trains professionals in the health and beauty sectors.

The college trains future podiatrists, cosmetologists, physical therapists, medical assistants, dental hygienists, and other professionals who have chosen a career path focused on caring for people.

From Graduate to Instructor
For Aija, this stage has been particularly significant—after all, it was at Paula Stradiņa College where she earned her podiatry degree in 2020 and took her first steps in the profession. Returning as an instructor means sharing her experience, inspiring, and supporting those who are just beginning their journey. “I once sat in their shoes—with the same questions and the same curiosity. Now I have the opportunity to show students that the profession of a podiatrist is not just a technical skill, but an art and a responsibility,” says Aija Skvarkovska.

Teaching as an Extension of Her Profession
For Aya, working with students has always been a natural extension of her professional practice. By sharing her knowledge, she helps students develop not only technical skills but also the right attitude—toward details, hygiene, quality, and the patient. Through meaningful interaction, something emerges that cannot be found in textbooks: a professional ethos and respect for the work.

Gratitude and Inspiration
MedbeautyLab would like to express its gratitude to the Paula Stradiņa College of the University of Latvia for its trust and for the opportunity to be part of the educational process. Such partnerships help advance the profession, strengthen the link between theory and practice, and inspire a new generation of specialists. “I wish all students courage, perseverance, and self-confidence. Pursue your dreams—and one day you, too, will be able to pass on your experience to others,” said podiatrist Aija Skvarkovska at the end of the academic year.