If you missed out on the second annual Study and Stay in Turku event (2.11.) you can now catch up online! Click here to view the recording.
The event was a great success, with over 250 students registering to learn more about studying and working in Turku. This year, Study and Stay in Turku was moved online, making it safer in the current Coronavirus situation as well as allowing for those outside of Turku to participate, including university offer holders who have deferred their place as well as potential applicants to international master’s programmes.
Stories to inform and inspire
Students received both inspiration and advice from the keynote speakers. First, Kamilla Sultanova, an international public speaker and diversity inclusion expert, challenged the audience to build their own path in Finland by actively pursuing what they love. Although entering the Finnish labour market can be tough for an international talent, Turku’s support for social entrepreneurship and its ethos of valuing diversity make it a highly motivating place to start a career.
Next, Juan Fernandez Castellano, a talent-sourcing expert at LeadDesk, reflected on his own journey, and how a 9-month Erasmus exchange turned into a 9-year adventure. The audience also received practical tips for a successful job search, including identifying networking opportunities, knowing what you can offer, and, of course, brushing up on your Finnish language skills.
Reflecting on a successful virtual event
Despite the changes in style this year, the organisers of Study and Stay in Turku were delighted with how the event turned out.
– As it became clear that we could not arrange a face-to-face event, our biggest concern was how to create the same feeling of networking and engagement online. But, the event exceeded all our expectations! Together with the amazing speakers and hosts, proficient production team, and wonderful and active audience, we managed to create a show that spread both information and inspiration. We have also received a lot of encouraging feedback from the attendees, and I believe there is a demand for these kind of online events in the future, explains Suvi-Anni Huhtinen, Marketing Planner, Admissions Services at the University of Turku.
Following the event, students can continue to find information about career prospects in Turku, from sources such as Study in Turku, here at Career in Southwest Finland and the higher education institutes themselves.
– There are a lot of good resources available, starting with the Study and Stay in Turku website! I would also encourage students to actively seek for information and same-minded people with similar interests and goals, Ms. Huhtinen adds.
We’re already looking forward to Study and Stay in Turku 2021 – see you there!
Photo credit: Suvi-Anni Huhtinen