Community spirit beyond studies is important, says Student of the Year Veronica Vanhanen
Vanhanen says she got involved in tutoring and student organisation activities inspired by the good spirit and active community.
"There has been such an amazing group and spirit here that I wanted to give something back with my own actions. Although my tasks in the guild activities have not been the most responsible, I have found it even more important to help others and encourage everyone to get involved," she says.
Veronica Vanhanen has worked as a tutor for new students twice – during her second year for bachelor's students and this autumn for master's students. In addition to tutoring, she has participated in the activities of the Optiem guild of industrial engineering students in Oulu as an officer and board member.
Vanhanen also encourages other students at the University of Oulu to take small actions. She has noticed that even small joint activities are beneficial, and community spirit is created when more students are actively involved.
"With a low threshold, you can ask others to, for example, exercise, play board games, or watch films. Even if you are exhausted and tired, it is worth joining in, as the activity can draw you in and bring a lot of joy to life."
Vanhanen discovered industrial engineering studies through the suggestion of her high school guidance counsellor.
"I had a slight interest in economics, but also strengths in mathematical subjects. My guidance counsellor at Oulu Kastelli High School suggested industrial engineering studies, where these things meet. When career tests later suggested technical fields, the direction began to take shape."
Veronica Vanhanen has worked in her field almost throughout her studies. In working life, she has been positively surprised by the activity of the alumni of the University of Oulu, i.e., those who have already graduated from the university.
"Our engineering alumni have spoken wonderfully positively about the University of Oulu and their time as students. I have found that community spirit is not only among current students, but shared experiences and traditions also unite us in working life. It is a something to treasure!"
Vanhanen's studies are nearing completion, and graduation is approaching. She is particularly interested in working in the industry, and she also looks forward to having more time for other things once her studies are over.
"I have a background in figure skating, and I look forward to having more time in the future to coach figure skaters."