“Our alumni activities are all about having a genuine community feeling with real interaction. When the activities are designed and initiated by the alumni themselves, they also want to take part in them,” Österman says.

Alumni as mentors

The alumni association’s latest project is a unique, pioneering venture. The Trump Card project is a collaborative effort by alumni and teachers in which the alumni pass on working life skills to students as part of their academic education.

“During the course of their studies, students will need different skills at different stages to prepare them for working life,” Österman says. “The idea is to engage alumni who will participate in courses and offer students the support they need.”

Trump Card has already been tested this year.

“Nobody cares as much about a current student as a former one. Students often come into contact with alumni in the shape of, say, a parent or a teacher, who will recommend the University as a place of study.”

That is why it is important to send the newest study guides to alumni as well.

“Alumni will always talk about their alma mater, but if we want them to spread the word about what the University is today, they need to see, hear and experience it for themselves.”

Alumni are people with a positive outlook who are interested in new knowledge and new contexts regardless of the language these ideas are communicated in.

Pia Österman has another tip: “Did you know that University staff are also alumni? Bring a friend and come and join us at an event where science meets practice.”

Do you have a good idea for alumni activities? Send your suggestion to alumniyhdistys@helsinki.fi

Text Johanna Metsämäki
Photo Linda Tammisto