University of Helsinki
Wu Wei is a member in an alumni association and she will tell us what kind of message she has for potential students about the University of Helsinki. So let’s talk to Wu Wei!
Hello, Wei. Study abroad a big step to take, and, globally, the options are almost limitless. What made Finland stand out as a study destination?
I got admitted to the European international master’s programme in, Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry, which allowed me to study in various European universities. The University of Helsinki was one of the seven options. I chose it because of the high quality of teaching in English and also because University of Helsinki is one of the best on the ranking lists of higher education institutions worldwide.
It’s really nice to hear that you chose us. You are a member in an alumni association. What kind of message you have for potential students about the University of Helsinki?
If I was asked by some potential students about the University of Helsinki, I would tell them that I had a fantastic and unforgettable time in Helsinki. You will get an absolute free study chance here. The professors and supervisors are so easy-going. More importantly, they always think for us students and provide as much as help as possible even though they are really busy sometimes.
Do you have an experience of working in Finland and how was it?
The white snow makes Finns shy and quiet… However, their serious attitude when facing the challenges of their work and study impress me. Helsinki is a place where we can really learn something, not only a place to earn high scores. I participated in one of the research projects in VERFIN (Verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention) while working on my master’s thesis. During this period, I progressed more than I ever could have believed. It is not so easy to start a totally new project especially for a master’s level student. My colleagues and supervisors never gave up on me when I was facing the frustration of a long fruitless period. They gave their continuous support and help to me in analysis and encouraged me to try harder. Also, I really appreciate Finns to give me a better balance between work and leisure time – they are not like we Chinese, we are workaholics.
You are back in China. What are your plans for the near future?
I am running my own business in China now. I always believe that education is not only for earning a degree and not only for achieving deeper knowledge in majors, but also for gaining more learning and working skills – skills we can use in everyday life. That is what the University of Helsinki gave me. Learn how to learn, not only what has been digested by others.
Thank you for the interview. Any wise words for the readers?
You might feel Helsinki a quiet city when you arrive, but teardrops will fall from your eyes when you leave for another place. That’s what happened to me!
Moi moi, Wei. Let’s keep in touch!
Sure! By the way, I will tell you a secret. In Chinese, my name “Wei” means “hello”. So remember me, it will be helpful, if we meet in China one day.
Wu Wei studied Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemisty. Read more!