Anni Koivisto

“I may be a professor, but I'm also a candy smuggler!”

Anni Koivisto is a professor of comparative literature at the Sorbonne Nouvelle University in Paris. Originally from Finland, she fell in love with the city of light during a two-year research stay and decided to make it her permanent home. Her colleagues admire her sharp mind and eloquent speech, but what really sets her apart is her quirky sense of humor and love for Finnish candy. Anni is often seen with a bag of salmiakki or Fazer chocolate in her hand, and takes pleasure in introducing her Parisian friends to traditional Finnish sweets.

What inspired you to become a professor of literature?

I grew up in a family of book lovers, and for as long as I can remember, I've been fascinated by the power of words to shape our world. Literature is a way to explore the human condition, to gain empathy for other perspectives, and to find beauty and meaning in life. I feel very lucky to be able to share my passion with my students.

What do you miss most about Finland?

Apart from my family and friends, I miss the nature. Finland is a country of forests and lakes, and there's something special about being in the middle of a silent forest in the middle of nowhere. That's where I go to recharge my batteries and connect with myself.