Student and Alumni Stories

Find out what our students and alumni would like to share with you about their studies and life in Helsinki.

Learn more about their career paths or plans, insights into the programme, studying in Helsinki, tips for your application process and much more.

Student Stories: Stephanie Wright

We’re excited to introduce Stephanie Wright, a second-year student in the European and Nordic Studies program! Originally from a small town in Northwest Indiana right outside the city of Chicago from a family with a long military tradition, she have had a passion for military history from an early age. Her bachelor's and master's are in history, during which her primary research was on Finland in World War II, the Medal of Honor, and World War II on the Eastern Front.

Why did you choose the programme and how does the ENS program stand out compared to other programs in similar fields?

I chose this program for its inclusion of Nordic studies, and it is one of the international programs offered by the University of Helsinki in English.

Looking back, what has been the highlight of your experience in the ENS program so far?

There have been several highlights of my time in the ENS program. The first highlight was our program trip to Stockholm. It has been nice to not only have the opportunity to explore Finland while living in Helsinki but also other Nordic nations. Other highlights involve some of the courses offered including one on Football in Norden, the Imperial History of the Soviet Union, and many others.

How do you think the ENS program has prepared you for the professional world?

I have learned several helpful skills while studying in the ENS program. Perhaps the most important skill has involved cross-cultural communication. As a foreigner living in Finland and studying within Finnish academia, I have learned valuable lessons in communication across cultures which will be helpful in any professional field.

What advice would you give to first-year students entering the program?

Use the required courses as springboards for areas that you could potentially write your thesis on and always ask questions.

What’s your secret to staying sane while balancing classes, your thesis, and life?

The short answer… coffee! I am not sure I have a secret to work-life-thesis balance, but I advise discovering what time of day you are at your best (for me it's in the early morning) and utilizing that time to focus on work. Then find a hobby that is not academic related and use that to take breaks from studying. For me, it's going to the gym or watching American football.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to the ENS program?

I would encourage anyone interested in understanding Nordic culture or society to apply, and then find and take as many classes as you can!

Student Stories: Charlotte Raskopf

We’re excited to introduce Charlotte Raskopf, a first-year student in the European and Nordic Studies program! Originally from Germany, Charlotte completed her Bachelor’s in Journalism, with a minor in Political Science, and worked as an editor and journalist before deciding to pursue further studies in Helsinki. 

What motivated you to choose the ENS Master's program?

There are two main reasons why I chose the ENS program. Firstly, I have been interested in the Nordics for quite some time, especially when it comes to political and societal questions. I liked that I could specialize in this region in the program. Secondly, I really enjoy the interdisciplinarity. I have always been the kind of person that has a lot of different areas of interest. The flexibility of this program allows me to explore lots of different disciplines while also developing my own focus.

What courses or subjects are you most excited to dive deeper into?

I am most excited to learn more about the Nordic countries, which is why I chose that as my study focus. Apart from that, I am really looking forward to taking some language courses and learning Finnish.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to the ENS program?

Probably to look at the courses that are offered right now and see if they suit your interest. And then, I would advice them to check the deadlines for the application and make sure that you have all the documents you need to apply. 

What are you looking forward to in the rest of your first year?

I am looking forward to really getting settled in Helsinki and Finland. And I am looking forward to exploring the different courses and subject areas of the ENS program and diving deeper into the topics - and maybe explore some interests I don't even know about yet.

What is your favorite study spot on campus (or in the city) and why?

During the warmer days, I love to just sit outside by the shore. Otherwise, there are lots of cozy cafés around campus that are great for studying, too - and there are several beautiful libraries where you can go to study.

What’s one skill or knowledge area you’re excited to develop during your time in the ENS program?

Generally, I would like to develop a broad understanding of the area of European and Nordic Studies, but also find an area to specialize in. I would also like to develop my research skills and gain more experience in that field.

Student Stories: Vladyslava Flerchuk

We’re excited to introduce Vladyslava Flerchuk, a first-year student in the European and Nordic Studies program! This fall, Vladyslava is also doing a traineeship with the ENS program. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in International relations, Vladyslava is eager to explore the program’s interdisciplinary approach and connect with fellow students!

What attracted you to the ENS program specifically, and what do you hope to gain from it?

After doing my Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Public Communication, I wanted to narrow down my field of studies and decided to focus on Europe and Nordic countries. When I was researching the programmes, ENS caught my attention for several reasons: interdisciplinary classes that are offered, flexibility in choosing what you want to study and even choosing your study track - Humanities or Social Sciences. I decided to focus on the Humanities track and I hope to gain profound knowledge of history, politics and culture of Nordic countries as well as meet new interesting people.

How do you feel the ENS program prepares you to address current issues in European and Nordic studies?

The ENS program offers a solid foundation for addressing contemporary issues by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and also cases, which happened nowadays. Through diverse courses, we explore the historical, political, and cultural dimensions of Europe and the Nordic region, which deepens our understanding of how these areas interact within the global landscape. Additionally, we engage in discussions on different topics related to the courses. 

How has the interdisciplinary nature of the ENS program shaped your approach to learning?

The program really helps me connect ideas across different fields and explore issues from all angles. Instead of sticking to just one subject, I get to learn from history, politics, economics, and sociology, which makes understanding European and Nordic contexts so much more interesting! For example, in my course Norden in the 20th Century: Economy and Society, I’m looking at how Nordic economies and societies developed over time. It’s super interesting – even though economics isn’t usually my thing.

How have group projects or discussions with classmates enhanced your learning experience?

Working together on projects lets me hear different perspectives and approaches, which often open my mind to ideas I hadn’t thought of. Everyone brings their own background and interests, and that makes our conversations really rich and inspiring.

What’s been the most challenging part of the academic workload, and how have you managed it?

The biggest challenge for me has been resisting the urge to take more courses than I’m supposed to! There are so many interesting subjects that match my academic background, and it’s tempting to sign up for everything. Choosing is tough, too, since the program offers such a wide range – from law and history to politics and beyond. I’ve had to prioritize and remind myself that it’s better to dive deep into a few areas rather than having a lot on a plate.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to the ENS program?

Apply! Don’t hesitate – this program is truly one of a kind. The ENS program offers a unique opportunity to study European and Nordic issues from multiple perspectives, blending courses in history, politics, culture, and more. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the region, build a broad skill set, and meet passionate, like-minded people from all over the world. Plus, the flexibility to choose courses based on your interests means you can tailor the program to suit your goals. If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience, this program is the perfect choice

Student Stories: Marie Krogius

Marie Krogius is a second-year ENS student focusing on EU studies. She did her Bachelor's in Soc&Kom, majoring in political science, after which she lived in Brussels for a year. She is currently writing her Master's thesis and hoping to graduate in the spring!

What made you choose the ENS program, and how did you know it was the right fit for you?

I did an internship in Brussels after graduating my bachelor’s and knew I wanted to continue deepening my EU-knowledge. I have also always been very interested in Nordic cooperation, so the program felt like a perfect fit for me.

What has been your favorite course or professor in the program, and why?

I have recommended ENS-346: Ideology, Memory, and Landscape to anyone who has been willing to listen! It’s an amazing course on memory politics, and it had a huge impact on how I understand contemporary European political movements. Another course I really enjoyed was ENS-H324: Mapping North and South in Europe. It introduces imagology as a field and I have used the methods and theories in that course to explain to my friends outside of the university what area studies are, and why I think it’s such a fascinating subject to study.

Have you had the chance to travel or study abroad as part of the ENS program? How was that experience?

I attended the ENS excursion to Stockholm last spring, and it was such a fun experience! As a Finn I have been to Sweden almost every summer during my childhood, but it was so interesting to visit Stockholm with some academic purpose. I learned a lot from the study visits, and it was so fun to get to hang out with the teachers and the students for a couple of days.

What’s something about the ENS program that exceeded your expectations?

How hands-on all the teachers are, and how easy it is to approach them. I have felt really supported and understood throughout the program, and it feels like the teachers really go out of their way to try to get to know the students. It’s one of the best parts of studying in a small master’s program!

What’s one thing you think potential students should know about the ENS program that isn’t immediately obvious?

The flexibility! I have really gotten to experience the academic freedom my Bachelor’s studies sometimes lacked, and I have been able to plan my studies according to my own interests.

What’s the best thing about studying in a program with such an international group of students?

It’s so fun! I feel like my classmates are all so smart, curious and emphatic, and it makes the discussions during class so interesting when everyone has different backgrounds. It also allows you to reflect upon your own cultural identity, which has been so rewarding.

Student Stories: Karoliina Leppänen

Karoliina Leppänen is one of our first-year students in the European and Nordic Studies program! After completing her studies abroad, Karoliina chose ENS for its unique academic freedom and the chance to explore both European and Nordic topics.

Can you tell a bit about your academic background and what inspired you to pursue a master's degree in European and Nordic Studies?

I completed my Bachelor's degree in Tallinn University in Politics and Governance and then did my Master's degree in the University of Amsterdam in International relations. Having done my degrees abroad I wanted to get a taste of Finnish academia as well so I applied to the ENS program and am now completing my first year here.

What attracted you to the ENS program specifically, and what do you hope to gain from it?

I like how you can choose from doing European or Nordic studies or a bit of a mixture of both. We have a wide selection of courses to choose from! I hope to gain more knowledge on EU issues as well as new friends

How do you feel the ENS program differs from your previous academic experiences in Estonia and the Netherlands?

I feel like you have more to choose from in this program! Also academic freedom is on another level compared to Estonia or the Netherlands. You have the freedom to build your degree as you wish and take courses that suit you and your interests

How do you balance your academic workload with personal interests or extracurricular activities?

We do a lot with my course friends and always find new activities to do. We also sometimes study together which creates a sense of belonging and we can take breaks and grab a bite in the middle! I also feel like the workload increases as the course is getting to an end so good time management skills are very valuable!

What advice would you give to prospective students considering the ENS program based on your experiences so far?

Apply! The program is very well organized and you are able to customize it to reflect your interests, and you meet lovely people on the way

If you could describe the ENS program in three words, what would they be and why?

International, interesting, valuable. You have people from all over the world that you can get to know. You also get interesting topics to study that can be very valuable to you in the future!

Student Stories: Samuli Aho

Samuli Aho is a first-year student in the European and Nordic Studies program. He’s passionate about understanding the complexities of European and Nordic cooperation and is eager to share his experiences as he begins this exciting journey.

What motivated you to choose the ENS Master's program?  

I did my Bachelor’s in European Studies, after which I really wanted to specialise in Nordic Studies. So, this program was perfect for me. I did not find a similar program anywhere else in Finland or Europe. I really also wanted to live in the beautiful city of Helsinki! 

What courses or subjects are you most excited to dive deeper into?  

I am particularly interested in Nordic themes, such as Nordic cooperation and Nordic history, so these courses will surely be really great. Next period I will have a course which examines the visual and aesthetic politics of European integration and identity through the lens of the Eurovision Song Contest. Being a huge Eurovision fan, I am super excited about this course! 

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to the ENS program?  

I would encourage everyone to apply if you’re even a little interested! We have people from very diverse background and everyone fits in well. The application process is rather straightforward and short, so make sure to invest some time in that. We have lots of different courses to choose from, a very nice group of people studying together, and many great and enthusiastic professors. 

What are you looking forward to in the rest of your first year?  

Of course, I am looking forward to many interesting courses. But, more importantly, I am looking forward to attending social events, doing activities together with my peers and living the student live in Helsinki. I am also excited to plan my internship that should already start in the beginning of summer. 

What’s one thing you’re still getting used to in the program or your new surroundings? 

Despite being Finnish, I have never studied in a higher education institution in Finland. So, I am still getting used to study here, as the study methods in my Bachelor’s program were rather different. There is much more independent work in this current program than I had previously, and that requires some planning. However, the workload is not overwhelming in any way  

 

Alumni Stories: Luiza

In our #NewInHelsinki series, senior students talk about their experience at the University of Helsinki and what advice they would give to their fresher selves. Once, Luiza was #NewInHelsinki. She came from Russia to Finland to study in the Master’s Programme in European and Nordic Studies.

Alumni Stories: Gabrielle Mantell

In 2017, Gabrielle Mantell started her studies in the Master’s Programme in European and Nordic Studies at the University of Helsinki in Finland. She wanted to obtain theoretical tools to better understand the dramatic events taking place across the world.

Mantell not only wants to introduce more people to work with advanced technology, but she also dreams about making it easier to understand the complex world of today. Her studies in the Master’s Programme in European and Nordic Studies at the University of Helsinki have helped her to better understand the world from different perspectives and angles.

Mantell also praises the academic freedom at the University of Helsinki. She can take courses in different disciplines than her own from more than one faculty.

“I must have about 50 extra course credits. When I began my studies, I was like a kid in the candy store. I value the broad selection of courses and the freedom to choose the courses that are most useful to me.”

Alumni Stories: Tamanna Sultana

Tamanna Sultana: "Finland has been my topmost preferred country for higher studies because of its reputation for quality education, beautiful nature, and continuous ranking as the world’s happiest country. I have applied to the University of Helsinki since it is one of the best research universities in the world and when I got accepted, it became a double delight for me.

As a graduate of International Relations, the ‘European and Nordic Studies’ programme is a perfect fit for me to study European and Nordic histories, identities, and policies. While living in a Nordic country, studying Nordic exceptionalism more closely as a part of the EU has been fascinating for me. 

The multidisciplinary study module triggered my interest and curiosity further since it has helped me to understand Europe from different perspectives, for example, cultures, economics, institutional cooperation, and politics.

After a long break from academic life, I am having a good time and learning will undoubtedly be an advantage to pursue my future goals. I recommend European and Nordic studies for future applicants because the programme’s flexible study plan and interactive study design makes the study enjoyable and develops you as an efficient and critical analyst." 

Alumni Stories: Jace Jordan

Jace Jordan: "I first experienced Helsinki during a two-year volunteer trip in Finland before I began my undergraduate studies, and I immediately became fascinated with the Finnish language, culture, and the unique role that the Nordic countries plays in the world. After I completed my undergraduate in the U.S. with a degree in Political Science, International Studies, and a minor in Russian, I knew I wanted to further explore these themes with a specific focus on Nordic Security, and the role that the Nordic countries play in influencing EU institutions, Russia, and trans-Atlantic affairs. The European and Nordic Studies Program, with its interdisciplinary focus and highly diverse and experienced faculty, provides me with the prime academic environment to further explore these themes in my own research.

One of the most remarkable elements of the University of Helsinki is that it sits at a political and cultural crossroad between the East and the West. This location, in tandem with the unique interdisciplinary aspect of the ENS program allows me to explore the overlap between critical academic fields. Whether it is studying the cultural and political impact of Finland and Sweden applying to join NATO, or analyzing the role that memory politics and populism have within the EU, the ENS program offers students the resources and flexibility to study nuanced topics that are critical to understanding contemporary geopolitics.

In addition to providing excellent opportunities IN the classroom, the ENS program also has incredible connections and relationships with institutions and research bodies beyond the University setting. The program has connected me to unique opportunities with organizations like the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA) and Una Europa, which have provided me with invaluable insights for both my academic and professional career. There is also a vibrant international community on campus, which not only makes for great language practice, but also allows you to make personal connections and form a network with dedicated students and researchers from around the globe."

After my studies, I look forward to putting into practical practice what I have learned and plan to pursue a career in diplomacy and foreign policy. The ENS program really fosters an environment built around understanding the complexities and nuances of modern challenges, both in Europe and beyond, and I believe these insights will be critical in my ability to build bridges and enhance international cooperation and dialogue in my future career." 

Alumni Stories: Ekaterina Nekhay

Ekaterina Nekhay: "European and Nordic Studies is already my second Master’s degree from the University of Helsinki. After the pandemic, I decided that it is the best time to come back to studies and a new domain, which started to interest me during my studies in the Intercultural Encounters Program. I was looking forward to courses concerning politics as well as the social and cultural history of Europe, and, particularly, countries of the Nordic region. Currently, I’m in the first year of studies and my expectations match reality!

There are three things I especially enjoy about the European and Nordic Studies program, and the first one is the interaction with top researchers in the field of Nordic studies. So far in several lectures we were using materials written by faculty professors and had lectures with their participation. Also, I find it fascinating how there are different seminars and conferences organized by the research centers and the faculty. Secondly, I enjoy studying in a very international and diverse environment. Being a foreigner, who permanently moved to Finland, I find it very comforting and enriching at the same time. Thirdly, I consider that the European and Nordic Studies program offers significant freedom in choosing study topics. For me it was essential to have a possibility to select the courses which correspond to my scientific interests and future academic plans." 



 

Alumni Stories: Tuire Liimatainen

Tuire Liimatainen is an alumni from European and Nordic Studies (ENS) programme.

Tuire is from the Helsinki region so therefore the University of Helsinki felt like a natural choice for her. However it wasn't the only reason to study in the capital. "The University of Helsinki has always had a very good reputation being ranked among the leading universities in the world and in addition I could easily find a major I was interested in the most."

Even after graduation Tuire is contented with her choice. "Overall I can say that the studying environment in Helsinki was very nice and the university provides good facilities and services for students. The teaching staff is also very educated and specialized and I felt that I was supported throughout my studies. Nordic studies are very interdisciplinary by nature which I enjoyed a lot and I felt I could concentrate on topics that interested me the most."

Tuire feels, that the most inspiring learning experience was writing the master’s thesis. Independence and required work amount gave her a possibility to specialize in a certain topic and to learn about research in general.

After graduation Tuire worked as an exchange program coordinator in a non-governmental organisation for 3 years. "During that time I was able to utilize skills for example in intercultural communication." After those years she returned to the university as a Phd student at the Centre for Nordic Studies (CENS). "I feel that my previous studies have given me a good basis for postgraduate studies", she comments.

For prospective ENS students Tuire recommends exchange. For her the time spent in Sweden gave insight and practical experience on the diversity of Nordic countries.

Alumni Stories: Krista Heinonen

Krista Heinonen: “I chose the university of Helsinki primarily because of its location in the beautiful city of Helsinki. It is also the overall best-ranked university in Finland and has a wide selection of degrees and minors. I applied to the European Studies master’s degree programme because of its versatile aspects, approaches and possibilities as a multidisciplinary study programme. I could not find any other master’s programme that had no tuition fee for EU students and offered the same traits. “

As a Finnish student Krista knew what to expect from the educational side of the university, but what surprised her were the positive studying environment and the team spirit amongst the students. “The upside of studying in a small master’s degree programme is that you get to know all of your classmates. We are a tight-knit group that consists of multiple nationalities and different types of people.”

“In addition to the skilled university lecturers, I have also learned from the fellow students in the programme. The class sizes are usually quite small and thus enable interactive discussion during the lectures. Sometimes we tend to share opposite views but are able to argue and discuss even sensitive subjects in good spirit and to learn from each other’s point of views.“

Krista considers that versatile teaching methods as a great asset of the programme. “The most inspiring course I have attended so far is called the Democracy in Eastern Members of the EU, in which I am currently enrolled in. There is no exam or final essay in the end of the course as the actual workload is being done during the course as group assignments. Every week a new interesting theme is being presented and the group is expected to elaborate on it and give a small presentation on each subject."

During her studies in the programme Krista has learned quite a bit also outside the university. “What is amazing is that I feel like I have been able to have an international study experience in my homeland. I have gained a unique opportunity to see Helsinki through the eyes of foreigners and it has resulted in me discovering new amazing things about the city I grew up in. “

One career path that is calling to Krista above all others is diplomacy. “I have already done an internship in the Embassy of Finland in the Hague. I am planning to do another one during my studies or right after graduation. I also see a career with the European Union or the United Nations a very pleasant option. “

“Studying European and Nordic Studies will teach you multidimensional perspective and ability to identify and analyse political, historical and cultural features that shapes societies. In addition, it may open doors to you that you never thought possible. For example, I never saw the field of economics of interest to me until I ended up volunteering for the Hong Kong office of the European Chamber of Commerce. An opportunity I would not have gotten without my studies. “

“If you are interested in a fruitful and challenging international study experience and career, European and Nordic Studies is definitely a master’s degree programme worth considering.”

Alumni Stories: Laura Sibinescu

Laura Sibinescu graduated in 2012 and her thesis topic was Democracy after accession; evidence from Central and Eastern Europe.  Currently Laura is PhD candidate in the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Change at the University of Helsinki.

“My decision to come to Helsinki was pretty spontaneous. After getting my Bachelor's degree in Romania I started looking into different options for a Master's programme in European studies. I wasn't really satisfied with what I found until one of my professors suggested I check out what the University of Helsinki has to offer. The Master in European Studies programme was by far the best fit for my interests among all other options, so I decided to come and study here.”

As the curriculum includes large variety of optional studies you have the possibility to build your own study path according to your professional interests. “Flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of studying here. For example, the fact that there was a lot of room for elective studies meant that I was able to pursue my specific interest in Central and Eastern Europe as a region as part  of my studies. I was also encouraged to take courses from other faculties.”

“One of the first courses I attended as part of programme was an interdisciplinary lecture series titled 'Europe: Time, Space and Politics'. Each lecture was given by a different professor from various fields - political science, history, geography, cultural studies. It was very interesting to see different perspectives on and approaches to what European studies mean.”

Internship is an important part of the curriculum. Laura´s career plans became clear during her internship. “I'm a PhD candidate in the Doctoral Programme in Political, Societal and Regional Change at the University of Helsinki and planning to pursue an academic career from here on. I wasn't actually 100% sure if I was going to do a PhD to begin with. However, in my second year I had the opportunity to do an internship at the Network for European Studies where I did some work as a research assistant among other things, and discovered that I really enjoy it. So the following year I applied for a PhD position. Now I work at the university's Department of Political and Economic Studies. In addition to writing my thesis I do other kinds of research, teach and occasionally do administrative work, such as planning conferences.”

“I think the internship, and the programme's hands-on approach to research were pivotal in my career choice. Before that I was considering working in public administration as a long-term career option. This experience helped me discover I really enjoy working in academia. “

Laura´s advice to all new students: “You'll be part of a very international environment, not just the programme but Helsinki as well. I really encourage you to get involved and meet new people. It's a cultural exchange experience you'll be looking back on fondly in the future.”

Alumni Stories: Saara Mattero

Saara Mattero graduated in 2015 and is currently working for the EPP Group of the European Committee of the Regions. The topic of Saara's master's thesis was From Global Responsibility to National Sovereignty – The Politicisation of the Financial Transaction Tax in the European Parliament.

 “To me, the University of Helsinki offered a truly unique and multi-disciplinary channel into learning about Europe - and looking at the subject of European integration through political science, history and economics instead of only having to choose one spectacles to observe the issue through.”  Tells Saara about her reasons to apply to the University of Helsinki.

She continues that though she knew the programme and network from her Bachelor studies, still the opening up of possibilities through the programme surprised her as well as its international and open-minded character. “Compared to many other options, I found myself inspired and privileged in these surroundings.” says Saara.

Of all interesting courses she took during her studies, she still remembers how it all started. “I actually enjoyed the opening course best with a proper overview of the whole programme while simultaneously bringing together all students from that year. That gave a great kick for the programme!”

In her current work Saara utilizes the knowledge and skills that she acquired in the programme on daily bases. “One of the reasons why I chose the programme was to deepen my knowledge of the EU and its institutions and I already worked with the European Commission and in the European Parliament during my studies. After my graduation I was called to join the Cabinet of the President of the European Committee of the Regions and now I am working for the EPP Group. I would honestly tend to say that I use my skills here every day, as I focused on EU institutional communication.”

Saara's reminder to all of us: “Be confident of who you are, where you want to go and work hard to achieve it. Anything and everything is possible – and remember to have fun!”

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