Student Testimonials

What was your academic or professional background before enrolling in this Master’s programme?  

Before applying to the University of Helsinki, I worked in Warsaw as a research assistant and laboratory manager at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology. This experience gave me valuable insight into the daily practice of scientific research and strengthened my interest in pursuing an academic career. Moreover, I have completed a BA in Psychology, and postgraduate studies in Sexology.  

What was it about the University of Helsinki or the LingDig programme specifically that made you want to study here? 

First, I applied to both the University of Helsinki and the University of Turku. Although I was fortunate to be accepted to both, I ultimately chose to pursue my academic path at the University of Helsinki. One of the main reasons for this decision was the remarkable number of impressive and influential researchers working in my areas of interest, particularly Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, and Cognitive Neuroscience. Being surrounded by such an inspiring academic community felt like the right environment for my development. Choosing the LingDig programme was also a very clear decision for me. I strongly value interdisciplinarity, and this programme offers exactly the kind of flexibility that allows students to explore connections across different fields. In my view, this openness is essential for becoming a successful scientist in areas such as Cognitive Science, where progress often emerges at the intersection of multiple disciplines. 

Why did you choose your specific study track? 

Pursuing Cognitive Science was always my main goal. In many ways, I feel that I did not simply apply to the Linguistic Diversity and Digital Humanities programme, but rather to Cognitive Science itself, as the programme offers an impressive level of flexibility. Thanks to this freedom, I have been able to shape my studies around my main interests, filling my study plan with courses in Cognitive Science and Data Science. With my background in Psychology, and considering the strong presence of Cognitive Science at the University of Helsinki, it quickly became clear that this path was the right fit for me. The programme allows me to combine my previous knowledge with new interdisciplinary perspectives, creating an academic journey that feels both meaningful and exciting. 

Have you taken courses from other study tracks or minor subjects outside of your main area? How did they complement your studies?  

Yes! I have taken several courses from the Data Science programme. Since Cognitive Science is inherently interdisciplinary, I believe that every additional perspective adds real value to the field. In particular, data-related courses are extremely helpful, as they provide accessible tools and approaches for understanding complex statistical phenomena. For me, these courses have been a great complement to my studies. They not only strengthen the analytical side of Cognitive Science but also make it easier to work with and interpret the kinds of data that are increasingly central to research in this area. 

Who would you recommend this subject to, and what traits do you think help a student succeed here?  

I would recommend this programme both to students who already have a clear vision of what they want to pursue in their academic or professional lives, and to those who are still exploring their interests. One of the programme’s greatest strengths is its flexibility, it allows students to deepen their knowledge in carefully chosen areas while also giving them the freedom to discover new fields and perspectives along the way. Students who tend to thrive here are usually curious, open-minded, and comfortable working across different disciplines. A willingness to explore, ask questions, and connect ideas from various fields can be especially valuable, as the programme encourages both focused development and intellectual exploration. 

What are your plans after graduation, or what is the focus of your Master’s thesis? 

I came to Finland with the clear goal of pursuing my academic career, so it is no surprise that I see my future as an active part of the academic community, particularly by continuing toward a PhD. At the same time, I believe that being involved in science is not only about conducting research. It also carries a broader role in society. For me, this means sharing knowledge beyond the walls of academia and helping make complex ideas accessible to everyone. In that sense, I see myself as a kind of translator, someone who bridges the gap between “academic” language and everyday human understanding, making science more approachable and meaningful for people outside the academic world. 

How have you found student life and the culture in Helsinki outside of the classroom? 

Helsinki offers an incredibly rich and vibrant student life. The number of organizations and associations available to students is impressive, so much so that it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming when deciding where to get involved. There truly is something for everyone. Personally, I found my place in the Cognitive Science Association, where I have had the pleasure of meeting several wonderful friends. Of course, we often discuss cognitive science and share ideas related to our field, but we also “waste”... or rather, invest, our time in conversations about many other equally important matters. Those moments of discussion, laughter, and shared curiosity have been just as valuable as the academic side of student life. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students considering the move to Helsinki? 

While media portrayals of both Finland and Helsinki can be appealing, the reality is often somewhere in between. Finland is frequently ranked as the happiest country in the world, but happiness here may be understood a little differently than one might expect at first glance. Before arriving, I was warned many times about the harsh Finnish winter and the supposed coldness of Finnish people. However, my experience has been quite the opposite. Finnish people are genuinely welcoming, friendly, and always willing to help. They may appear reserved at first, but once you start a conversation, they are surprisingly talkative and warm. While this might partly be the “Helsinki effect,” I have encountered the same openness and kindness in other cities across Finland as well As for the winter, it is certainly cold and dark, but not nearly as frightening as it is often portrayed. Of course, this might be easier for me to say since I come from Poland, where winters can also be quite harsh. With the right mindset and the right clothing, you can even learn to appreciate the beauty and calmness of a Finnish winter. 

What was your academic or professional background before enrolling in this Master’s programme?   

I did a Bachelor's in philosophy at Tampere University, and was halfway on to a Master's when I decided to broaden my horizons a bit. Topics in philosophy of mind and language quite naturally direct you towards cognitive science I guess. 

What was it about the University of Helsinki or the LingDig programme specifically that made you want to study here?  

I like the linguistic orientation of LingDig. Theoretical linguistics and cognitive science have progressed more or less hand in hand for the most part, so the study tracks allow for a lot of cool collaboration in coursework, especially during the Experimental Lab Course.  

Why did you choose your specific study track?  

Cognitive science felt like the most natural move for pursuing the kinds of research questions I got interested in during my philosophy studies.  

Have you taken courses from other study tracks or minor subjects outside of your main area? How did they complement your studies?  

I have been studying some mathematics and computer science to get up to speed with the technical aspects of contemporary cognitive science. It has been super useful and exciting to enroll on courses across faculties, and I wish there was time to do more. 

Who would you recommend this subject to, and what traits do you think help a student succeed here?   

If you are interested in language, computers, or cognition - hesitate no more. 

LingDig has a bunch of exciting subjects with their own methodologies and theoretical paradigms, I would imagine any kind of a student who has a soft spot for the subject matters finds their niche. 

Do you have any tips or "insider" pointers for someone currently wondering if this programme is the right fit for them?   

The cafeteria at LingDig campus area serves pizza every day. 

What are your plans after graduation, or what is the focus of your Master’s thesis?  

I'm hoping to pursue a PhD building on the work started during this Master's.  

I studied the counterfactual inference capabilities of Large Language Models in my Master's thesis, and would like to explore the possibilities of combining mechanistic interpretability methodology with cognitive neuroscience.  

How have you found student life and the culture in Helsinki outside of the classroom?  

Helsinki has quite an active cultural scene, so there's definitely something for everyone.  

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students considering the move to Helsinki? 

It's gonna get cold. Like windy. 

What was your academic or professional background before enrolling in this Master’s programme?  
A BA in Language and Literature (Bilingual in English and Russian). 

What was it about the University of Helsinki or the LingDig programme specifically that made you want to study here? 
I love Digital Humanities and wanted to study in Europe. The computational history project at the University of Helsinki really caught my eye. Why did you choose your specific study track?  
I simply like Digital Humanities (DH). Maybe after all I still want to research humanities questions. 

Have you taken courses from other study tracks or minor subjects outside of your main area? How did they complement your studies?  

Yes, I took courses in Language Technology, Cognitive Science, and even Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). Because DH is such a broad field, knowledge from other areas can easily be applied to my main focus. Exploring these different subjects gave me practical skills, sparked new ideas, and helped me figure out my future career path. Overall, it has been very helpful for my core studies. 

What do you think sets the LingDig programme apart from similar degrees at other universities?  

LingDig is quite an innovative program. It combines Phonetics, Language Technology, General Linguistics, Cognitive Science, and Digital Humanities. This mix of arts and sciences gives students a well-rounded perspective and helps them grow academically. Plus, the course selection is very flexible, so you can pursue almost any academic interest! 

Who would you recommend this subject to, and what traits do you think help a student succeed here?  

For the DH track, I recommend it to anyone who wants to use digital tools to solve humanities problems. If you have a humanities background, you should be ready to improve your technical skills. If you come from a tech background, you need an open mind and a passion for learning about the humanities. 

Do you have any tips or "insider" pointers for someone currently wondering if this programme is the right fit for them?  

The DH track isn't heavily industry-driven, but it is very interesting. If your main goal is to explore freely, do fun research, and level up your tech skills along the way, this is a great choice. 

What are your plans after graduation, or what is the focus of your Master’s thesis? 

I’m honestly not sure yet!  

How have you found student life and the culture in Helsinki outside of the classroom?  

Helsinki is a great place for a peaceful life. But if you want to make friends, there are plenty of chances to do so, and most people are very welcoming. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students considering the move to Helsinki?  

Helsinki might not look super fancy at first glance, and it is a bit quiet for a tourist destination. However, if you are living here long-term, it is a very comfortable place to settle down. 

What was your academic background or professional background before enrolling in this Master’s programme?  

I completed general upper secondary school studies in the newly renovated spaces of Kangasalan Lukio, Finland. Throughout my studies there, I was drawn towards language studies. I actually had a brief period where I only studied foreign languages the likes of French, Spanish and Swedish – and I loved it! That was what truly catapulted me into pursuing a degree in language studies. I first enrolled to University of Eastern Finland for my BA. The initial idea was to become an English and French language teacher, but the idea of doing solely that became slightly restricting. I wanted to be as broadly and holistically educated in languages and language studies as possible, so I quickly pivoted to doing an MA in General Linguistics.  

What was it about the University of Helsinki or the LingDig programme specifically that made you want to study here?  

LingDig has many qualities that sets it apart from other programmes. The programme’s focus is on creating experts with broad understanding of language, linguistics, the human mind, and cognition. It is highly inter-disciplinary as a programme, and LingDig allows room for exploration both within and outside of the programme’s studies. I personally felt intensely drawn to the programme’s emphasis on creating experts with a broad understanding of their respective fields. During my undergraduate studies at the University of Eastern Finland, I integrated studies from the fields of general linguistics and psychology to my degree in English language as an effort to foster my inquisitive nature – and to gain a broader and more holistic understanding of language and its inner workings. However, I felt like I was missing something – […] It was only in Helsinki that the sheer breadth of the field of General Linguistics became evident to me. Within a single semester, I have had courses from Middle Eastern Studies, a course on Multilingualism within the South African contexts, Linguistic Anthropology, and Arabic language classes, I feel like I have learned much and unlocked new layers of understanding linguistics.  

Why did you choose your specific study track?  

Growing up multilingual in a predominantly monolingual part of a country like Finland has profoundly shaped my identity and fuelled my passion for learning languages. Throughout my upper secondary and university studies, I have always gravitated towards learning more about languages, the human mind and cultures, and my academic journey has been driven by this passion. Therefore, studying General Linguistics here was a bit of a no-brainer for me.  

Have you taken courses from other study tracks or minor subjects outside of your main area? How did they complement your studies?  

I have not strayed too far out of my comfort zone yet, but I am planning on taking some introductory courses in Language Technology. Also, I began taking courses from Middle Eastern studies at the University of Helsinki this academic year. It has been terribly interesting! I plan on doing my MA thesis based on some of the contents I have picked up from MENA (Middle Eastern and North African) studies as well as my LingDig studies.  

What are your plans after graduation, or what is the focus of your Master’s thesis?  

My long(er) term goals do include applying for PhD programmes with a focus on Middle Eastern cultural studies and linguistics.  

How have you found student life and the culture in Helsinki outside of the classroom?  

I have found the student life and culture to be very lively in Helsinki, both within the LingDig programme and especially through different associations such as ESN. Though you can also enjoy your time in Finland without bigger gatherings and parties, in case that does not do it for you. In our first year of studies, our LingDig programme trainee arranged many fun activities such as a trip to Tallinn, which is across the Finnish Gulf in the neighboring country of Estonia, an excursion to Turku, an evening around a bonfire, a movie night, as well as a potluck. The only struggle that comes to my mind is that the campuses are dispersed into several ones located a bit far away from each other. This makes co-ordinating meet ups and lunches a tad challenging at times – but not impossible! :)  

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students considering the move to Helsinki?  

Make sure to dress warmly and take your vitamin D-supplements! 

Do you have any tips or “insider” pointers for someone currently wondering if this programme is the right fit for them? 

As per our LingDig programme’s description, our teaching is provided on the latest research. So, if you want to be “in the know” on what are the most recent trends in the field of General Linguistics, this is the programme for you.  Another thing to note before applying is that we have a focus on linguistic typology within the University of Helsinki and our Linguistics department. The researchers and teachers have a strong, empirically driven background in linguistic typology and general diversity. Linguistic fieldwork opportunities are plentiful here, as they support our pursuit to become experts in classifying, documenting, and protecting more endangered languages. The programme’s sole focus is not on typology, but it is one of our programme’s professors’ and lecturers’ strong suits. If that floats your boat, you are in good company! 

What was your academic or professional background before enrolling in this Master’s programme? 

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics at the Faculty of Liberal Arts in Thailand. During my undergraduate years, I did an internship as an Internation Medical Coordinator at a private hospital, which gave me early exposure to how language operates in real, high-stakes situations. After graduating, I worked for three years as a Quality Engineering Supervisor at a large IT company. Although the role was not directly related to linguistics, my work involved a great deal of data analysis and auditing. Even while my career path took a slight detour, I never truly drifted away from linguistics. I continued reading articles, following academic blogs, and keeping up with topics that genuinely fascinated me. Some of my colleagues even noticed that whenever I talked about language or my academic background, my eyes would literally light up. That was a moment of realization for me. I knew then that I wanted to reconnect with what truly excited me intellectually. So, I started searching for Master’s programmes related to linguistics and that search eventually led me here. 

What was it about the University of Helsinki or the LingDig programme specifically that made you want to study here? 

Before deciding, I explored many programmes across Finland and other European countries. What ultimately sparked my interest in the University of Helsinki was the strong academic reputation combined with its clear emphasis on interdisciplinary research and academic freedom. The LingDig programme immediately stood out to me because of its structure. The idea of combining linguistics with fields such as technology, cognitive science, and so on felt refreshing and forward-looking something I did not see very often in similar programmes elsewhere. As I looked deeper into the curriculum and individual courses, I found myself interested in so many of them. What really sealed the deal was the flexibility of the programme. Even though I chose the general linguistics track, I am encouraged to explore courses from other tracks and even outside the programme. That level of freedom made the programme feel both supportive and empowering. At that point, It simply felt right to apply. 

Why did you choose your specific study track? 

This might sound like a predictable answer, but my motivation is very genuine: I am deeply interested in language itself. On the surface, language may seem like a simple tool humans use to communicate ideas or exchange information. But when viewed through social and cultural lenses, language is incredibly powerful. It shapes identity, signals power and positioning, builds relationships or sometimes breaks them. Its influence does not stop with the individual speaker; it extends to communities, societies, and, in the case of public figures, even entire generations. What fascinates me most is that language is highly dynamic. It is constantly evolving, adapting to time, context, and social change. Even my native language, Thai, changes so quickly that if I return home after just a few years away, I might find myself encountering new words and expressions that feel unfamiliar. Without following social media, I might even struggle to fully connect with my brothers. And this is only the beginning. Fields such as historical linguistics, language preservation, and the study of minority languages reveal just how unique and rich each language truly is. As you can probably tell, the more I talk about it, the more excited I become. That passion is exactly why I chose to continue my studies in linguistics. 

Have you taken courses from other study tracks or minor subjects outside of your main area? How did they complement your studies? 

Absolutely. With so much academic freedom it would almost feel like a missed opportunity not to explore. I have taken courses from other tracks such as Digital Humanities and Cognitive Science, and I am also very interested in courses from the technology and phonology tracks. These courses have helped me broaden my way of thinking beyond linguistics alone. For example, taking a course like Philosophy of AI may sound abstract at first but it turned out to be relevant. The course pushed me to think critically about the relationship between human and artificial intelligence, as well as concepts such as agency, autonomy, and explainability. It also raised important ethical and societal questions, helping me reflect on how ideas like intelligence, meaning, and responsibility are understood. These discussions connected closely with my interests in language and linguistic theory. (Even if it still feels abstract). Courses involving Python have been especially useful, as they allow me to apply computational approaches to collecting and analysing linguistic data. I am also planning to take Machine Learning for Linguists, which I find incredibly exciting. Beyond the LingDig programme, I am also interested in courses such as Intercultural Communication from the Intercultural Encounters programme and Politics, Power and Music in the Balkans from Area and Cultural Studies. These courses will enrich my understanding of how language interacts with culture, power, and identity in real-world contexts, making my linguistic studies more grounded, reflective, and interdisciplinary. 

What do you think sets the LingDig programme apart from similar degrees at other universities? 

What truly sets LingDig apart is its strong interdisciplinary foundation combined with academic flexibility. Rather than treating linguistics as an isolated field, the programme actively encourages students to engage with technology, cognitive science, and so on. This creates a learning environment where linguistic theory is constantly connected to real-world applications and emerging technologies. 

Another distinctive aspect of the programme, particularly within the track I am studying, is the emphasis on hands-on experience. Some courses offer opportunities to work with authentic linguistic data, including collecting data directly from native speakers or conducting fieldwork in real settings and real social contexts. Being able to step outside the classroom and engage with language as it is actually used in everyday life is both exciting and intellectually rewarding. What I also appreciate is how the programme balances theoretical depth with practical skills. Students are encouraged to think critically, experiment with different methodologies, and design their own academic paths. This combination not only strengthens our understanding of language but also prepares us for a wide range of future careers, both inside and outside academia. 

Who would you recommend this subject to, and what traits do you think help a student succeed here?

I would recommend this programme to anyone who is genuinely curious about language, or to those who enjoy challenging themselves to learn something new. Language may seem simple on the surface, but once you look closely, it becomes surprisingly complex. It appears to follow clear grammatical structures, yet there are always exceptions, special conditions, and contextual nuances that push beyond those rules. That tension between structure and flexibility is what makes it so fascinating. 

Language is something we encounter every single day. We read it, speak it, listen to it, and even express it through body language. In a way, studying linguistics is like choosing whether you want to simply drive a car or also understand how the engine works. You can be the driver who knows where to go and how to get there, or you can be both the driver and the mechanic who understands how each component functions and how they work together to create movement. Linguistics allows you to look under the hood and understand the system beneath everyday communication. Because of this, being open-minded and comfortable with stepping outside your academic comfort zone is a big advantage. Curiosity, patience, and a willingness to question assumptions will take you far in this programme. 

Do you have any tips or "insider" pointers for someone currently wondering if this programme is the right fit for them? 

My biggest tip would be not to limit yourself to your chosen track. Take advantage of the academic freedom here and explore courses across different tracks or even outside the programme. Some of the most interesting insights often come from classes you did not originally plan to take. Another important thing is to get comfortable with uncertainty. Feeling confused from time to time is not a sign that you are doing something wrong. More often than not, it means you are being exposed to new ways of thinking and genuinely learning something new. Giving yourself the space to sit with that confusion can be surprisingly rewarding. 

What are your plans after graduation, or what is the focus of your Master’s thesis? 

After graduation, I hope to work in the field of education or in language related professions where I can truly express my identity through my work. I am especially interested in roles that allow me to engage with language in meaningful ways, whether through teaching, research, or applied language work that connects theory with real social contexts. As for my Master’s thesis, I am still in the process of exploring different directions, perhaps a little too enthusiastically. I find myself drawn to many areas of linguistics, but sociolinguistics stands out in particular. I am fascinated by how language interacts with society, identity, power, and everyday life. At the same time, I am also tempted to challenge myself by thinking beyond conventional boundaries and approaching language from more unconventional or interdisciplinary perspectives. Wherever my thesis eventually leads, my goal is for it to reflect not only academic rigor and personal curiosity, but also a sense of responsibility toward the field. I want my research to be something that contributes to ongoing scholarly conversations and supports a more sustainable and inclusive understanding of language as an integral part of human experience. 

How have you found student life and the culture in Helsinki outside of the classroom? 

Moving to Helsinki has been a completely new experience for me, and a very rewarding one. Stepping out of my comfort zone felt intimidating at first, especially since I had never lived in Europe or spent such a long time away from home. The initial adjustment was challenging, from language barriers to daily life, and especially the weather. I still remember arriving at 9 p.m. on my first day and being surprised that it was still bright outside, and cold at the same time.  

When it comes to student life, I have been very fortunate. My classmates and professors have been incredibly kind and supportive, which helped me adapt more quickly. I also decided to take Finnish language courses. Finnish is extremely difficult, but also surprisingly fun. My Finnish friends often help me practice and patiently explain new words and cultural quirks. In class, discussions with peers and professors are strongly encouraged here, which has helped me broaden my perspective. Even though I am not naturally very talkative, I try to challenge myself to speak up more and participate actively. I have made it a small personal goal to contribute more in class before finishing my first academic year. These exchanges have been incredibly valuable to my learning and personal growth. 

Outside academics, Helsinki offers far more activities and seasonal experiences than I initially expected. At the same time, the people and lifestyle here feel quite simple, calm, and relaxed, which I truly appreciate. I have gone mushroom picking, tried ice skating for the first time, joined an archery club, and of course experienced the iconic Finnish sauna, followed by stepping into the cold air outside. It is refreshing in every sense of the word. Right now, I am very much looking forward to experiencing my first Finnish summer. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students considering the move to Helsinki? 

If you are considering moving to Helsinki, come with an open mind, and maybe bring a very warm jacket. You will be challenged, occasionally confused, and sometimes cold, but you will also grow in ways you did not expect. The experience may not always be easy, but it will be meaningful. You may leave with more questions than answers, and that can be a very good thing. 

Harnessing natural language processing for industry 

Dean is an international student in the programme’s language technology track. His background before enrolling in the programme was in management consulting focusing on supply chain and manufacturing operations—a field he has gone back into, equipped with newfound skills. For Dean, it was a combination of family reasons and the focus on natural language processing that led him to study at University of Helsinki. 

The diverse applications for natural language processing (NLP) outside of the academic study of language attracted Dean to language technology: “In my prior work, I noticed a lack of capability to process unstructured data e.g., emails, phone conversations for the purposes of planning demand even though very mature data science and machine learning workflows were in place to process quantitative data for supply planning.”  

Outside of his professional field, Dean credits natural language processing with enabling people to communicate in new ways: “NLP has taken the field and applications for translation leaps and bounds forward. The majority of people in the world could not really communicate with one another before. Now NLP applications allow them to communicate in real time or near real time in very many situations.”  

“I never thought I would train my own machine translator as a result of taking one course. That was a defining moment.”  

Studies in the language technology track are very much hands-on, and from the very first courses onward, students build practical applications that can solve natural-language related problems. “I never thought I would train my own machine translator as a result of taking one course. That was a defining moment”, Dean says.  

The programme is taught by scientists who are at the top of their fields, and teaching is heavily integrated into research done at the university. Recently, students have been offered courses such as “NLP for endangered languages” and “Creative Natural Language Generation” that are taught by researchers who are currently making advances in the field. Dean goes on to say, “even though the instructors have to work their socks off to make it happen, it is really nice for students to have Mathias Creutz and Yves Scherrer (and previously Miikka Silfverberg) teaching so many courses. It really gives the NLP track a lot of continuity.”  

Apart from NLP, Dean has taken elective courses in cognitive science. In his opinion, what sets LingDig apart is the combination of the different tracks, such as digital humanities and cognitive science, into one programme while the university’s top-notch reputation doesn’t hurt either.

What was your academic or professional background prior to the master’s programme? 

After general upper secondary school, I got a vocational qualification in music with classical singing as my major. After that I did my bachelor’s degree here at the University of Helsinki with phonetics as my major.

Lots of people might have never heard of phonetics. Why do you think phonetics is an important field to study? 

Speech in itself is something people often take for granted, even though it is so central to our existence and the world around us. Speech as a phenomenon spans multiple areas of study, from anatomy to physics to topics like language learning. With all that and more, there will always be something new to uncover.

How did you decide on studying phonetics? Who would you recommend the subject, and do you have any pointers for those who are wondering whether phonetics could be their thing? 

For me, my background in singing and general curiosity towards how things work sparked an interest into the workings of the human voice, alongside a lifelong interest in natural sciences. But no matter your exact background, I would say if you have that spark of curiosity about any aspects of speech, you are going to find a whole world to explore. One of the greatest things in phonetics is the vastness of it: pre-existing skills and interests can encourage and inspire you to find your own niche close to an already familiar subject or introduce you to something entirely new. 

It is quite a wide and interdisciplinary field. What kinds of things could a student specialize on? Would you like to tell us about your thesis plans or your plans after graduation? 

Some broad topics that come to mind are for example speech synthesis, language learning and psychoacoustics. Someone might find their interests in deep learning networks or signal processing, while someone else is more inclined to study articulatory phonetics, speech prosody or the progress of learning to speak a new language. I find many of these topics highly interesting, but my main interest since my bachelor’s thesis has been Lombard speech i.e., speech produced in noisy conditions. The phenomenon can be considered psychoacoustic, but like so many topics in phonetics, it can be researched through multiple approaches be it articulatory, neurological, acoustic or other. 

Have you taken courses from the other tracks, minor studies from outside LingDig, or perhaps exchange studies? 

I have done minor studies in computer science. During both master’s and bachelor’s I have also taken courses in cognitive science, language technology, and mathematics. Some courses I have taken to make use of in phonetics and others simply out of general interest.

What do you think sets LingDig apart as a programme, and why should people choose LingDig or University Helsinki in general? 

If phonetics provides a wide selection of topics, LingDig takes it to another level yet in an orderly manner. We students are able to easily reach out and explore outside our own specific field and make use of the cross-disciplinary nature of the program, even if by just discussing topics with people from different strands to gain new perspectives. What I value the most is that we are being taught by research scientists who are on an exploratory mission of their own, not always just teaching us but sometimes learning things alongside us and sharing their research.

How have you found student life outside of the classroom in the University of Helsinki? 

I have enjoyed my time immensely. Most of the close friends I have these days are from studying at the university, be it through similar study tracks or from taking part in the student choirs and theater.