Docent Dr. Dovile Deltuviene, a lecturer and deputy dean of studies at the Faculty of Fundamental Sciences (FMF) at VILNIUS TECH, is well known among students and the entire community, who approach her with questions related to both studies and personal matters, and, for some students, serves as a sort of psychologist. By welcoming each student and helping them through difficulties, she has earned not only their respect but also their affection. As a result, in this year's Best Teacher Awards, D. Deltuviene was nominated as Caring Teacher.

Being a teacher is a calling

D. Deltuviene has been with the Faculty of Fundamental Sciences since its founding; after graduating from school in 1993, she enrolled in the Engineering Informatics program, so her studies and career started exactly there.

"During my studies, we learnt a lot of mathematics, so I consciously chose to specialize in the mathematical field. I wrote my thesis on probability theory and received the highest grade. Then I chose to pursue a master's degree in mathematics. After that, I received an invitation to doctoral studies. As my supervisor said, I had no right to refuse. Thus, my career as a lecturer began during my PhD," shares the docent, who teaches probability theory and mathematical statistics.

However, it was unexpected for Dovile herself that her career would turn out this way. Upon finishing school, she was the only one in her class to say she didn’t want to be a teacher, yet she became one. The docent smiles, reflecting that perhaps fate simply arranged it this way. This year marks 25 years since D. Deltuviene started teaching at VILNIUS TECH.

"Today, I can confidently say that being a teacher is my calling. When students sincerely thank me after lectures or seminars, I always smile and tell them that I get much more from them – I receive their youthful energy," she shares.

An extraordinary love for youth

From her very first years of teaching, the docent felt a connection with young people. Although at first it wasn’t easy to teach due to nerves and strong sense of responsibility, she quickly established the connection.

"The secret is very simple – I unconditionally love young people, both children and youth. Of course, there are times when the connection with a student takes time - a month or two, but it always originates from love for young people," reveals the lecturer.

Dovile notes that while each generation is different, she finds a common language with all of them. She doesn’t place much importance on categorizing generations into X, Y, and Z. "It's natural that the upbringing, views, developmental era, and environment of each generation differ, just as people do, but a way to connect can always be found. And although sometimes the behavior or attitude of certain students can be frustrating, I’m not afraid to say so and try to approach it in different ways – highlighting their strengths and celebrating each of their good qualities. It’s important to be open and sincere with the student."

Seeing students with the heart

Twelve years ago, after becoming the deputy dean of studies, Deltuviene began to help students even more actively – she assisted them with issues ranging from academic problems to personal difficulties.

The main philosophy guiding this lecturer is a quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's book "The Little Prince," which Dovile's daughter wrote on a bookmark: "One sees clearly only with the heart. What is essential is invisible to the eye." She always carries this quote with her.

"I believe I have a gift from God to feel people with my heart, and empathy is instinctual for me. Of course, I also have certain psychological skills that help me understand what troubles a young person. Thus, while working as a deputy dean of studies, I sometimes have to play the role of a psychologist. I even keep tissues handy," says the docent.

Students reach out not only regarding study-related questions, such as debt or schedule changes, but also for personal concerns – ranging from disagreements with lecturers to family issues. Deltuviene notes that often, when students express their feelings, solutions come naturally.

Students appreciate deputy dean Dovile's openness and sincerity. This helps them overcome fears, strengthen their self-esteem, and look more confidently toward the future. For students, this support is particularly important, as they feel heard and understood. "In her office, students are always welcome not only to discuss studies but just to talk," is something they often say.