University of Helsinki
You’ve arrived, you’ve chosen your courses, and you’ll get all the paperwork done at the Welcome Fair. Now you’re all set for your student life, and the only thing to do is to wait for the lectures to start? Think again!
The key to an unforgettable time at the University of Helsinki is being active, and meeting new people! The student union, HYY, offers you a student card with countless student discounts, affordable health care, and discounts on transport. Most importantly, though, the student union is home to a huge network of student organisations, new hobbies and awesome people from different faculties and countries – everything a student will need in Helsinki!
The student organisations offer activities ranging from medieval sword-fighting and theatre to choirs and beer-tasting. Every student also has a subject organisation and a faculty organisation which will welcome you with open arms. There you will meet like-minded people who will be glad to discuss the latest turns in your field, or tackle a difficult course assignment together. Find out which organisation is for you and join their activities! Student nations, on the other hand, bring together people from different parts of Finland, so if you’re curious, go ahead and join one! Some student nations also have appartments for students to rent, their own libraries and student restaurants.
Some of the over 250 student organisations will present themselves to new students at the Welcome Fair! If the organisation you’re interested in couldn’t make it, you can ask about what they do and how to get involved at the student organisation help desk! Not knowing any Finnish is not a problem, since most organisations will function in English as well, if necessary. Get your tutor to help you in case you don’t know where to start!
Your time at the university will be a lot more memorable, fun, educating and useful. You’ll go home with friendships and experiences that will last a life-time. Make the most out of your student life! The student union is here to help you!
Joining the student union is easy. You can either pay the membership fee by bank transfer, and have the receipt with you at the Welcome Fair, or stop by at our offices at the New Student House. On the day of the Welcome Fair we’re even open until 6 p.m.! Before you do, though, be sure to check out our website for all the services and benefits we offer!
P.S. If you’ve already arrived during the autumn semester, and haven’t joined the student union for the whole academic year, you have until January 15 to join again!