University of Helsinki
The concept of student union was not new to me as it exists in almost every country. Still, when I came to Finland, I was astonished by the functioning and influence of student unions in Finland.
When I got accepted in the University of Helsinki, for the confirmation of my admission I was supposed to pay around 100 euro for Helsingin yliopiston ylioppilaskunta (HYY) [The student union of the University of Helsinki]. I admit this didn’t make me very happy. At that time, I assumed HYY is just some other student union which probably won’t do anything. Again to my surprise, I was totally wrong.
Before I go any further, I would like to make a little introduction about HYY. It came into being in 1868 making it the oldest students union in Finland. Due to its rich history, culture and well-structured organization it has always made a big influence on the National politics of Finland. Apart from its extensive history HYY is the largest in Finland with approximately 32,000 members and making it one of the richest student unions.
Where does all this money and influence go? Obviously, towards students benefits. For example, once you are a member you get cheap and high quality meals for around 2,60 euro at Unicafes. It makes you eligible for free or almost free healthcare, including dental care. Besides that, discounts on long-distance travel within Finland, sports services, legal assistance and if you are a parent and member of HYY, it also provides temporary childcare on the city center campus. These are some of the benefits you get in your normal everyday life as a member of HYY. HYY’s other activities include the organization of student events, which will be updated regularly on HYYs website.
Nevertheless, it’s not limited to above mentioned welfares only. Once I remember, the Finnish government wanted to impose fees on international students which I, being myself an international student in Finland, didn’t like and wanted to take some action. Of course I reached HYY and I got a very good response from the members. We managed to publish a blog in a leading English language paper “Helsinki Times” which I’m sure wouldn’t have been that easy to reach without the proper guidance and help of HYY.
I would like to close this by saying that joining HYY simply makes your student life easier and more fulfilling. Even more, becoming a member you not only help yourself but also your fellow students. For these reasons, join HYY!
Text: Mian Ahmad, International Student Ambassador
Picture: Veikko Somerpuro / University of Helsinki