More Than the Degree

Students chatting together at a table

Aalto Squad student ambassadors' blog. Read all about student life and studies at Aalto University!

You can also chat with our ambassadors via Unibuddy

Blog posts

Students starting their studies

Letter to My First-Year Self

By Alisson Yheraldin Onzueta Caballero

Final-year master's student in Water and Environmental Engineering



Time has flown. I am now in the final semester of my master’s degree, writing my thesis, wrapping up academic life, and working full time. These final months have offered more than just closure; they have brought perspective, not only about what I have learned, but about everything I needed to hear at the very beginning.

Photo from outside

Why Practical Experience is Just as Important as Coursework?

By Alisson Yheraldin Onzueta Caballero



When I began my master’s program, I was excited about diving into new subjects, climate models, hydrology, GIS tools, water treatment, and environmental governance. I was ready to learn, to listen, to analyze. And I did. But somewhere along the way, I realized that what we learn in the classroom only becomes meaningful when we test it in the real world.

Student smiling

How to Turn Your Passion into a Career in Development?

By Alisson Yheraldin Onzueta Caballero

Final-year master's student in Water and Environmental Engineering



When people ask me how I started working in development, I rarely know where to begin.

Studying at the campus

My Master's Thesis Process at Aalto

Hi! I am Elisa Pöyry, a student at Aalto University School of Business majoring in marketing. Currently, I am finalizing my master’s degree and writing my master’s thesis. Therefore, I thought I would discuss my research process so far including the different steps and milestones, and reflect on my journey in this blogpost. In addition, I will provide my personal tips for completing your thesis and managing the process successfully!

Student in Finnish summer

How to Spend Your Summer in Finland – Part 2

(Day trips to explore beyond Helsinki & Espoo)



Hey again! 👋



So, after soaking up all the amazing spots in Helsinki and Espoo, it’s time to hop on a train or bus and check out some of Finland’s other charming towns and small cities. These places are all close enough for a day trip or a relaxed weekend getaway.

Student enjoying the sun

🌞 How to Spend Your Summer in Finland – Part 1

Hey everyone!



I’m super excited to share this guide on how to make the most of your summer here in Finland. As a student ambassador, I get a lot of questions from new students and visitors about where to go and what to do when the days turn long and sunny.

Student with friends

✨ From Barcelona to Aalto: My Journey as an International Student in Finland

When I first set foot in Finland, everything seemed like a quiet whisper: the empty landscapes of lakes and forests, the soft-spoken people, even the minimalist language of design. Coming from Barcelona, a city overflowing with energy, color, and expressive architecture, I wasn't sure how I would adapt. But I arrived in Finland with curiosity, a mind full of ideas, and the hope of experiencing something radically different.

Student in class

Balancing Creativity and Deadlines: How I Manage My Workflow

Hey there! I’m Katalin from Hungary and I am studying in the Design BA (now called Design and Media) program at Aalto University. People often ask what I find most challenging about my degree, and for me, it’s definitely learning how to manage my workflow in a way that stays balanced and healthy (still very much in progress).

Student at their internship

Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Graduate School

When I began my Master’s in Water and Environmental Engineering, I was carrying not only academic ambition but also the hopes of my community and the challenge of navigating unfamiliar systems. Now, as I approach graduation, with the invaluable experience of working with the World Bank even before completing my degree, there are a few things I wish I had known from the start:

study place on campus

My favourite study spots on campus

Hey there! I’m Katalin from Hungary and I am studying in the Design BA (now called Design and Media) program at Aalto University. Today I would like to share my favorite study spots on Otaniemi Campus. There are a lot of different places upkept, for example, only your degree, only your school, which for me is the ARTS department as well as spaces for everyone. You can also book on the Aalto Spaces app!

Student ambassador posing

Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Graduate School

When I began my Master’s in Water and Environmental Engineering, I was carrying not only academic ambition but also the hopes of my community and the challenge of navigating unfamiliar systems.

Aalto University student

Finding Part-Time Jobs on Campus: My Aalto Journey

Hey! Many students look into the option of getting a part-time job during their studies. Whether it’s to gain experience, earn some extra money, or simply get more involved in the university community, there are different opportunities available. In today’s blog, I want to share my own journey and give you a glimpse into the kinds of roles students can take on right here on campus.

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