The University of Oulu and corona: how to secure studies, what about student organizations Wappu?

The University of Oulu aims to move to online teaching and studies to stop the spread of coronavirus. The guidelines set by the university affect both studies and free time.

The University of Oulu has updated its guidelines regarding the COVID-19 virus on the 12th of March. Earlier the university informed students and staff that travelling should be limited and people returning from areas with corona should work from home. Yesterday the university released a statement underlining the importance of distance between people in order to stop corona from spreading at the university. In practise this means working remotely for both for students and teachers.

Behind the university’s decisions lie the cases of corona in university students in Oulu. 17 new cases were found in University of Oulu students on the 12th of March. The cases are connected to ski resorts in Austria. The students exposed to the diagnosed patients have been quarantined on the 13th of March.

Also affecting the university’s decision is that The Finnish government decided on measures against corona yesterday, on the 12th of March. The Government recommended that all gatherings of over 500 people be cancelled until the end of May. Travelling and organising other events should also be considered carefully.

As a result of the limitations, the university has for example moved this spring’s Doctoral Conferment Ceremony to Autumn 2020.

Teaching to happen online, laptops to teachers

The University of Oulu recommends increased remote work and says they will increase online teaching. People with flu-like symptoms can not participate in classes, exams or come to campuses.

The university’s Chief Information Officer Kari Keinänen says that the university is preparing to offer all teachers a laptop to guarantee education.

“We ordered 209 laptops: everything the supplier had in storage. We aim to secure computers for teachers if they were to need them to teach online”, Keinänen told the Student Magazine on the 13th of March.

The CIO says they estimate around 300 teachers might need a computer. If the new laptops will not be enough, the university’s laptop vendors will be employed for use in teaching.

“The laptop vendor computers are available for students to use and will continue to be as long as there are computers. They currently hold 140 laptops that are in circulation as usual.”

To guarantee smooth teaching, the university is arranging training for the teaching staff, Keinänen says.

“We are going to have webinars next week where we aim to train teachers to use online teaching tools. We are also reforming the IT support services so we can continue to help teachers as they work remotely.”

Students who don’t have their own computer for remote work have also been taken into account. The Vice Rector for Education Helka-Liisa Hentilä said on the 12th of march that teaching will be offered in a way that suits mobile devices. Students will receive more information and support regarding this.

The university library released a statement of friday the 13th of March saying the customer service will end at libraries starting on the 16th. Using the library spaces, loaning books and returning them will function like normal with the current automated services. The Pegasus library will be open on weekdays between 8 am and 5 pm. The library will be closed on saturdays starting tomorrow. The libraries of Kontinkangas campus and OUAS will continue to be open normally.

Studies at a normal pace

The University of Oulu aims to guarantee teaching so that nobody’s studies will be delayed because of the epidemic.

Kela released a statement on the 13th of March saying delays in studies caused by corona will be taken into account when deciding student benefits. Student allowance will be given even if the amount of completed studies slows down. More months for student allowance can also be granted.

The start of studies should also not be delayed due to the virus. The university stated that even though entrance exams are also an event of over 500 people, they would be organised so the amount will not reach the maximum capacity. The decision for how to organise the exams will be made together with other Finland’s universities. The first entrance exams are to be held in Oulu on the 23rd of April.

Exchanges cancelled

The policy for the University of Oulu is that all current exchange students of Oulu university are to return to Finland. This decision has been made due to the Finnish Institute for Health and Wellbeing (THL) stating that clear lines for where the epidemic is in effect can no longer be drawn and all travel is risky.

Upon returning from an exchange the University of Oulu will pay for all extra expenses caused by travelling back, if the expenses are not covered by travel insurance or grants. According to the university students can keep the grants they have received for the exchange, even though the exchange period has been interrupted.

The University of Oulu as well as the Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OUAS) recommend that exchanges planned for spring 2020 be cancelled and no students go out on exchanges.

Upon returning from an exchange students must study remotely for 14 days. Longer instructions for returning have been sent out to students through the SoleMove-website on the 12th of March.

Wappu and free time remotely?

The measures taken affect free time as well as studies. The Student Union of Oulu University OYY informed student organisations on the topic on the 13th of March. OYY recommends that organisations carefully consider organising events. In future events they should secure the option to participate remotely as well as ensure good hygiene. The OYY office will also be closed for the time being.

OYY advices student guilds to close their guild rooms and to hold their board meetings remotely. The reason for this is that virus infections spread effectively in small, closed off spaces.

Cancelling events of over 500 people also affects the traditional student event, wappu. The Technical students association of Oulu OTY gave a comment on this on the 12th of March.

“OTY is following the situation regarding corona. There is no reason to worry about Wappu, as it will happen either way. If needed it will be organised completely remotely through Twitch, Snapchat, Instagram and other social media. More info will follow in the near future, said Riikka Haataja.

The University Sports of Oulu OKKL has also stopped all of their activity for the time being starting Friday the 13th.

The University of Oulu released a statement regarding the new actions against corona on the 12th of March. The University will have a group of people meet every day to discuss future actions. Follow the latest info on the University’s website.

More information about corona can be found here. In case you get sick you can check out the information by the city of Oulu and Finnish Student Health Service.

Iida Putkonen

Oulun ylioppilaslehden entinen päätoimittaja. Tiedeviestinnän maisteri ja glögin ympärivuotinen kuluttaja. Etsii revontulia, riippumattoja ja juuri oikeita sanoja.

Lue lisää:

Is there magic left in the world?

Logic rules the world. We no longer fear trolls or deities nor do we rely on spirits for inner peace. Is there magic left in the modern world, Anca M. Catana wonders.

Remember the movie Fight Club (1999)? If not, you can take a break, watch it and return to reading after.

Isn’t it somehow intriguing that your everyday, average individual would engage in such a “barbarian” activity, without any notable advantage? Sure, they were mostly men, but take another break and go watch Million Dollar Baby (2004).

The point is, we see it in sports, we see it in the arts, we see it in religions: people gather together to witness or take part in a short intense event, which moves a little bit of something within them.

Some 2400 years ago, in an attempt to explain what happens with the spectator while watching an ancient tragedy, Aristotle (tip: he was Greek), came up with a name for the phenomenon: catharsis, cleansing and purification of emotions.

Aristotle’s catharsis has always been connected to the idea of purification of emotions through arts, particularly the performing arts.

What the explanation fails to remember is that the theater witnessed by Aristotle didn’t limit itself to an artistic representation.

Instead, the Greek gods and goddesses were alive and well in the ancient tragedy. They had their own entrance in the scene purely for themselves and were always making the characters accountable for their actions, adding a religious or spiritual dimension to the whole catharsis concept.

Cleansing of gods

Back to the future and why you are reading about a two and a half millennia old word in a student magazine: as old as it is, catharsis couldn’t be more actual. Let me explain.

In our contemporary world, God/s, goddesses, demigods, not even witches, elves or trolls are walking among us anymore – nor do they send angry messages.

Smart beings as we are, we studied, understood and categorized everything. We know today that thunderstorms are not caused by Thor’s hammer but by the electrical charge of clouds, the world has been created rather by the Big Bang than the vomit of Mbombo, the Death worm from the Gobi desert is probably just a type of amphisbaenia, and a great flood is more likely to be the result of climate change than of divine wrath.

Not long ago, I was watching Nicholas Christakis’ TED talk The hidden influence of social networks, in which he explains his break-through discovery on how the social network of an individual affects surprising aspects of his or her life. These included their chances of getting divorced or obese.

It occured to me at that moment, that there is a worrisome paradox: we know so much about what surrounds us, but so little about ourselves as individuals and especially as communities.

Modern day catharsis

In our secularized society religious or spiritual laws and rituals are seen as naive, even dangerous if taken to fanaticism. The main reason being that they can’t be objectively verified, take horoscopes for example, so they fall in a category of pseudoscience.

Them not being objectively verifiable makes them prone to manipulation and re-interpretation which can lead to fraud or disastrous events, like the Jonestown Mass Suicide, where in 1978, over 900 people were manipulated into taking their own lives.

On the other hand, purging any non-rationality from our daily lives has left many feeling empty. We tend to blame mental health issues, depression and suicidal thoughts on financial problems, stress, substance abuse, but could they not also be attributed to a lack of magic in our lives, a lack of mystery or spirituality?

Could it be why the world of dragons and face-changing people of Game of Thrones became such a phenomenon? Is the unknown and unintelligible “a must” in our lives that also makes us vulnerable?

Our day to day existence becomes somewhat sisyphic when it lacks meaningful experiences and encounters. Like a Shyamalan movie, everything seems to be following its order, but the somewhat eerie atmosphere hints at something being off.

If magic and spirituality are the missing elements, how can we bring the unexplained back into our lives? Through art, through meditation, through forming our own rituals? And where is the limit: can they become dangerous? When can we become susceptible to being deceived and manipulated by some who, for example, figured that there is fat money to make out of our non-material needs?

Money for nothing

I am probably not the only one assaulted on social media by ads for products promising balance, gratefulness, love, peace, humbleness – for a small fee of course.

No matter how appealing the photoshopped landscapes are or how marvelous the shut-eyed ladies look in their fitted yoga pants in these ads, I can’t help myself from stopping and wondering about the absurdity of it all.

The current ads remind me of the medieval practice of selling indulgences: a bit of money is all that it takes to save your soul and sanity.

Remember the catharsis phenomenon from the beginning of this text that required people to actually get together and live an event as a community? Well, fear no more, as in our contemporary world you need to meet no one, talk to no one, go to no crowded or chaotic gatherings.

You can enjoy the benefits, free your mind and liberate your spirit while isolating yourself in your living room with buds in your ears, listening for the 100th time to the same monotone voice praising you for taking time off to “take care of yourself” – for a small fee.

Lost inner peace

Where is the limit, then? When are we having our mind and soul cared for and when are we having them exploited? To whom should we trust the most sensitive parts of ourselves: the stranger or the one close to us? The professional or the loving one?

And talking about professionals, where does professionalism start and where does it end? Nevertheless, why do we seem to crave the inexplicable only to try to explain it afterwards?

I wish I had at least some of the answers for these questions in order to be able to write a nice and comforting conclusion, but that’s no easy task.

As a result I invite you to think about all the magic present in your life, reflect on whether you would need more of it and most importantly, where and with whom could you find it.

Anca M. Catana

Education student, theater enthusiast, nature lover. Curious, spontaneous and ambitious, open for new challenges.

Lue lisää:

What is Halloween & Why Should I Care? An American perspective on the spookiest day of the year

This year, Americans are expected to spend $9 billion on Halloween. This breaks down to $86.79 per person, spent on costumes, candy, drinks, and decorations. All of this money being spent on one day prompts many around the world to wonder what this holiday is all about. Morgan Neering tells us why October 31st is one of the top three best days of the year, and how she plans to spend it in Oulu.

TEKSTI Morgan Neering

KUVAT Morgan Neering

To some, October 31st is just another day. For me, however, it’s one of the top three best days of the year, just behind Thanksgiving and Christmas.

In America, and in many places around the world, October 31st marks the day of Halloween; a spooky celebration filled with costumes, trick-or-treating, and pumpkin carving. Stores become filled with pumpkins, costumes, candy, and the movie classics, as everyone prepares for the final day of the month. Everything becomes pumpkin flavored; coffee, pies, muffins, and more, and people everywhere seem to be in the festive spirit. 

Granted, I may just be an (overly) festive person, but October is always one of the most exciting times of the year.

And I’m not alone, nearly 70 percent of the total U.S. population who were polled are planning to participate in Halloween festivities this year. The other 30 percent, well, they’re missing out.

Throughout my time in Finland, I’ve seen stores filled with spooky decorations, Halloween candy, and of course, pumpkins. While in America, this is the season to prepare your pumpkins for a long stay on the front porch, but here, pumpkins seem to be used mostly for making soups. Despite these differences, I’ve been surprised to see some of my favorite Halloween traditions existing throughout Oulu.

As Halloween continues to gain international popularity, it’s important to know what traditions make this day so special for the millions of people that celebrate it every year. Although festivities may vary, many of the classic American traditions can be seen in Finland, as well as in many countries around the world.

 

Halloween 2009: Proudly displaying our pumpkins before carving them with this year’s design.

Celebrating the American way: Candy, Parties, & Trick-or-Treating

For me, Halloween encompasses so much more than just one day. It’s a month long celebration, marked by many annual traditions. In my family, nights in October are usually filled with all kinds of fall festivities and Halloween preparations. These typically include carving pumpkins, watching movies, and baking Halloween cookies for our friends, family, and neighbors.

Every year, typically during the second week of October, we go to a pumpkin patch, a tradition that has remained one of my favorites since I was young. We excitedly walk through the field of pumpkins, searching for the perfect one for this years carving. Once we find our pumpkins, we grab a hot apple cider, and a spiced cinnamon donut. These are my fall food staples. The pumpkin patch usually offers hayrides, corn mazes, and other fall festivities, and is filled with people of all ages.

With T.V. channels playing popular films of the season, another one of my favorite traditions is hosting a Halloween movie night with my friends and family. While some may opt for scary movies, such as Halloween or The Nightmare on Elm Street, I prefer my childhood classics. The movies I watch every year are Hocus Pocus, Halloweentown, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Twitches. My siblings and I have watched these for years, and there has yet to be a Halloween where we don’t all watch these classic movies together. The movie night is usually filled with autumnal snacks, like pumpkin seeds, caramel apples, and pumpkin pie. It’s a cozy tradition that I have missed very much during this October in Oulu.

Many people also choose to spend their Halloween in a more spooky fashion. Haunted houses, hayrides, and corn mazes have become increasingly popular, especially among the younger generations. While this may appeal to some, my approach to Halloween is much more relaxing and less scary.

 

Halloween 2017: Visiting my sister at East Carolina University, a school notorious for it’s crazy Halloween celebrations.
Halloween 2017: Visiting my sister at East Carolina University, a school notorious for it’s crazy Halloween celebrations.

 

The build up to Halloween is arguably the most fun part of the holiday. Yet, as the sun begins to set on the final day of October, children finish up the final touches on their costumes. Excited mummies, witches, and superheroes leave their homes and head to the nearest porch with the front light on. This symbol means that the family inside welcomes trick-or-treaters, and is prepared to hand out candy, small toys, or other Halloween treats.

For children, the night of Halloween is typically spent trick-or-treating: going door to door collecting treats from the neighboring homes. As you get older, however, Halloween can be spent in a variety of ways. Most young adults and students attend parties, filled with costumes, drinking, and classic autumn party games, such as bobbing for apples. Many people spend their evening at haunted houses or neighborhood gatherings, while others may choose to stay at home and hand out candy to trick-or-treaters.

Although Halloween traditions vary between regions, cultures, and families, those who choose to celebrate the day usually participate in similar festivities. However the night is spent, Halloween is a day filled with fun for all ages.

Historical Roots of Halloween: Celtic Beliefs & European Traditions

Although modern day Halloween is all about family, friends, and fun festivities, the holiday has significant historical roots. The traditions of Halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest and the start of the cold winter, a time often associated with death, darkness, and despair.

The night before the Celtic new year, the Celts believed that the spirits of the dead returned to earth. These traditions spread around the world, and Halloween in the United States developed as customs from European immigrants combined with Native American beliefs.

The first Halloween celebrations in the U.S. included public parties that celebrated the harvest, where people of the town would share ghost stories, dance, and tell each other’s fortunes. During the nineteenth century, these celebrations became increasingly popular throughout the states. Immigrants from England and Ireland brought with them the classic tradition of dressing in costumes, which gained widespread popularity across the country. They also expanded the tradition which later became known as trick-or-treating, a response to the increasing pranks and mischief that had come to be associated with the night of Halloween.

In theory, giving treats to the neighborhood children was intended to prevent them from playing tricks on the family. This tradition continued to expand, growing into the wildly popular practice that is still around today.

As these traditions continued, Halloween parties became staples in every home and in every classroom. Today, many Americans continue to celebrate the holiday, and traditions have spread across the globe.

Halloween in Finland: Increasing in Popularity

Before arriving to Finland, I had never really questioned my belief that everyone around the world surely celebrated Halloween. I was shocked to discover that it just didn’t seem to be that popular here. While some supermarkets offer Halloween candy, decorations, and costume props, the traditions I am accustomed to seemed to not exist.

However, upon further investigation, I’ve realized that the traditions of Halloween are becoming increasingly popular in many European countries, including Finland. Many schools throw Halloween celebrations or autumn festivals, and jack-o-lanterns can often be seen in the yards of Finnish homes. The more I look, the more I see Halloween-related items in stores, however, they’re typically very expensive, and the selection is usually limited. A mask is nearly 8 euros, whereas in America, you could buy the same thing for 2. Many supermarkets in the U.S. also have entire sections dedicated to Halloween and Fall decorations, which may take up to 1/4th of the total size of the store.

“Before arriving to Finland, I had never really questioned my belief that everyone around the world surely celebrated Halloween.”

I’ve been told that some Finnish children even go trick-or-treating, and the numbers are continuing to grow. There are many costume parties and events at pubs, with a seemingly large number of people in attendance.

Overall, Halloween seems to be gaining popularity in Finland, and I look forward to experiencing the holiday as the country continues to develop unique traditions of their own.

Kekri & All Saint’s Day: Cousins of Halloween?

While Halloween festivities may vary, I was surprised to find out that there are two somewhat similar celebrations that take place in Finland every autumn.

The first is Kekri, a celebration that historically marked the change of the year and the end of the harvest. Although there is no set date, festivities for this holiday usually take place over the course of a few days, sometime between the end of September and beginning of November. It is a Finnish tradition that has been celebrated since Medieval Times, before Christianity came to the country. Historically, this holiday has included the performance of plays, singing, dancing, drinking, and a festive food. Some people also carve turnips or pumpkins, an activity known as kitupiikki.

Another day similar to Halloween is All Saints’ Day, or Pyhäinpäivä. This is typically celebrated on the Saturday between October 31st and November 6th, and is a commemoration of lost loved ones. Public offices close, and churches usually hold a special All Saints’ Day Mass. Many people can be seen walking through the cemetery, and placing lit candles on the graves of family or friends. Many people throughout Europe participate in the traditions of this day, which on Finland and Sweden falls on November 3rd this year.

What Halloween means to me: Celebrating in Oulu

While there are many Halloween-themed things, parties, and events in Oulu, this years celebration just won’t be the same. There are many things that I miss from home that really make this time of year special. Not having my family and friends with me to watch Halloween movies, carve pumpkins, and cook festive food has been really difficult, but there are ways to create a true Halloween feeling while abroad.

My tips for an authentic Halloween include a movie night with friends, where you carve pumpkins, make caramel apples, and of course, eat lots of candy.

“While there are many Halloween-themed things, parties, and events in Oulu, this years celebration just won’t be the same.”

One of the most classic Halloween candies is Candy Corn; basically a triangle of sugar, but it can be found in almost every American home during the month of October. Besides candy corn, classic foods of this holiday include pumpkin seeds, pumpkin pie, and both candy and caramel apples. I may be biased, but this time of year offers some of the best foods and drinks. Apple cider and the infamous pumpkin spice latte are fan favorite drinks, and flavors such as pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon are very popular.

For me, however, the most important parts of Halloween are the ones spent with loved ones. I typically live without the trick-or-treating, although, if people would still give me candy, I would definitely dress up and go door to door.

While this year’s festivities may be a little different than what I’m used to, I look forward to experiencing the way that the Finns, and other international students, celebrate this holiday.

 

Halloween 2017: Our annual family tradition is still going strong. Last year carving pumpkins with my mom and siblings.
Halloween 2017: Our annual family tradition is still going strong. Last year carving pumpkins with my mom and siblings.

Morgan Neering

An American exchange student trying to navigate a world in which buses are silent and where McDonald's offers a vegan burger. A firm believer in the idea that "we cannot become what we want by remaining what we are."

Lue lisää:

Student Culture, Four Seasons, Fantastic Finnish People, & Sauna: Life in Oulu as an International Student

This autumn, hundreds of international students from countries around the world came to study at the University of Oulu. For many, adjusting to life in a new country has brought about many challenges, surprises, and memorable moments. With the first month of classes drawing to an end, Morgan Neering interviewed some fellow international students, to get their honest opinion on life here in Oulu.

Rika Nakano, 22
Exchange Student for One Semester
Studying Primary Education & Japanese as a Second Language
Japan

I think the University of Oulu has more liveliness and eagerness for learning or research compared to my home university.”

Why did you choose to come to Oulu?

What brought me to Finland and Oulu is its education system. I want to be a primary school teacher to be able to make a positive difference on the future of children. Studying in an environment so different from Japan helps me to expand my thinking and change my fixed beliefs that I have created throughout my own educational background. For me, this exchange study is a great challenge.

Has your view of Oulu changed during your time here?

Yes! People say that Finns are calm, polite and rarely enter into the conversation. But, people that I met in Oulu are friendly and helpful to foreigners. I’ve stayed in Oulu for just a month, but I already love the city and the Finnish people.

Do you feel welcome here? Do you find it easy to get to know local students?

I made friends easier than I imagined because there were a variety of welcome events for the exchange student. They were very nice. I have some local student friends like my Kummi and students coming to cafe lingua. But I want more opportunities to get to know local students and people in Oulu.

How does the University of Oulu compare to your home University?

I think the University of Oulu has more liveliness and eagerness for learning or research compared to my home university. Also, the systems like the student app and learning management system are well organized and easy to use, even for the exchange students.

What would you like to change in the University of Oulu?

The procedures were complicated so I wish there was a To-Do list for the exchange student.

 

Britta Bornhorn, 24
Exchange Student for One Semester
Studying Education with a focus on Math & Biology
Germany

In terms of the people living in Finland, I am surprised over and over again with their unique peculiarities, such as visiting the sauna often or feeling comfortable when no one is talking.”

What was your first impression of Oulu?

My first impression of Oulu was – funnily enough – sun! I arrived at the end of August, and it was warm! You could sit in the sun, showing off your nice t-shirts and sunglasses. Well… if you had any. I had packed for four months of deep, dark cold winter. As if it was -35°C and zero hours of sun here in August. I should have had a closer look at the climate graphs.

Has your view of Finland changed during your time here?

Yes! So far the weather is better than I thought. I have also learned a lot about Finnish history and politics in some of my classes. Whereas I didn’t really have much of an opinion (to be honest, not even a lot of knowledge) about Finland before I came here, now I am impressed by how Finland has developed so differently after WWI than any other country I know. Even if I cannot really say what opinion of Finland I had before I came here, I can now say that I am impressed with the Finnish welfare state. I’m also impressed by the equality and high standards of living it has accomplished. In terms of the people living in Finland, I am surprised over and over again with their unique peculiarities, such as visiting the sauna often or feeling comfortable when no one is talking.

What has helped you adjust to your new life abroad?

Learning Finnish! … kidding. Finnish is just the hardest language. Eight, acht, huit, ocho … kahdeksan?! This project is going to cost some time. However, everyone speaks very good English. So that helps. In the short term (for which I am here) that’s more effective than me learning Finnish, I guess.

What has been your favorite memory so far?

Biking to Hailuoto. At this point, I do not want to brag about myself. I am aware that this must sound quite impressive. Chris Froom? Amateur. Also I don’t want to complain about how sore my legs were, or that the seat of the bike ripped a hole into my pants. I am a person that likes to keep this for themselves.

That said: it was a really great day! We went with a couple of exchange students, we had amazing weather and the Marjaniemi Lighthouse and the beach were just stunning.

 

Lindsay Jamerson, 20
Exchange Student for One Semester
Studying Peace & Conflict Studies and History, with a minor in Women & Gender Studies
USA

All exchange students are coming in with the same open-mindedness, so take advantage of that during the first few weeks.”

What have been the challenges of living in Oulu?

One challenge I have found myself facing is the language barrier as I have dietary restrictions. Thankfully, I have been able to pick up on certain keywords that have allowed me to identify the foods that I can and cannot eat.

Another thing that has been difficult is acclimating to the new cultural norms. For example, one of my friends is from Germany, and I made the mistake of not taking my shoes off when I entered her apartment. She politely informed that what I was doing could come off as disrespectful, although she knew that that was not my intention. Since then, I have tried to pay more attention to other people’s behavior so that I can do my best to respect their cultural values. There are a lot of things that I never realized would be different between cultures.

How does the University of Oulu compare to your home university?

Demographically, they are the same, which is one of the reasons why I picked the University of Oulu. One thing I really like about Oulu is that the entire campus is connected, whereas at my home university, the buildings are all separate and house different departments. I also enjoy the food selection on campus in Oulu, because it is cheaper and tastier than that at my home institution.

What piece of advice would you give to new exchange students?

All exchange students are coming in with the same open-mindedness, so take advantage of that during the first few weeks. Everyone is in the same position and trying to make friends. Also, try to make friends with people who aren’t from your home country. It’s a lot easier to be with people who are familiar with your culture, but the purpose of studying abroad is to push yourself and experience new things.

What are some things in Oulu you’d like to take home with you?

Bio-waste. One of the things I appreciate most about Finland as a whole is their attitude towards environmental issues. I think that my home institution would not only be open to the idea of incorporating bio-waste facilities, they would wholeheartedly support it. ‘

 

Helerin Raikkerus, 30
Studying Medicine
Exchange Student
Estonia

“There is no such thing as bad weather, if you have the correct clothing.”

What has been the biggest challenge so far?

It is sometimes difficult to accept that everybody dies at some point. A doctor always wants to help his or her patients, but, for example, sometimes the patients have many diseases. When they get an acute, for example surgical problem, and might otherwise be saved by surgery, sometimes it can be even more risky to operate. As a student it is difficult to watch others making these kind of decisions, and it is probably harder for the real doctors to make them.

What are you most looking forward to during your time in Finland?

Hmm… I’ll answer about Oulu. I’m here for an internship at the University Hospital. I hope to learn a lot.

If you could give someone one tip before visiting Finland, what would it be?

Before coming, take a quick look at the weather forecast. The nature in Finland is beautiful and we have four seasons. There is no such thing as bad weather, if you have the correct clothing. Be prepared for hot sunny days during the summer, some rainy days and extremely cold weather during the winter months. Be prepared and have fun.

 

Zsuzsi Máthé, 31
Studying for a PhD in Cognitive Linguistics
Visiting Student doing research
Transilvania

“One aspect that stands out in Finland is the support that you get as a student or researcher, both from teachers and the system.”

Why did you choose to come to Oulu?

When I was in high school, one of my dreams was to go to Finland. In fact, I wanted to experience the real north, which is why I chose Oulu.

In Oulu, I feel like I am literally and metaphorically on the top of the world! Before coming to Finland I have travelled extensively. I’ve experienced different cultures and lands, mostly by doing volunteer work, which gives me a frame of reference and a sense of appreciation towards the unique traits of each culture and country. It also gives me the ability to see how Finland stands out.

What was your first impression of Oulu?

It was love at first sight. It is not easy to put into words the experiences of four months here, but at first I thought Oulu was special for three reasons: the people, the nature and the culture/education.

Nature here has many faces, and each can be enjoyed to the fullest; you just need a bit of courage. Whether it is summer and the sun never sets, or it is winter and dark and freezing, there is plenty to do and see around Oulu.  

The University building, although in some areas it reminds me of an airport, is cozy, well equipped and has a good vibe. There are people of all kinds and a variety that is really enjoyable. You can find everything you need, from numerous student restaurants and cafes to hangout rooms and even dark corners if you want to hang out alone.

In addition to all this, Finnish people are fantastic. Don’t believe the rumors that they are shy and cold. They make incredibly caring, thoughtful, helpful and loyal friends. I am forever grateful for the friendships I have formed here and the people that I met. They are truly special and more than I ever could have hoped for. I am looking forward to making new friends at the Festival of Cultures.

How does student life in Oulu compare to your home University or country?

I don’t really like making such comparisons; each country has its own charms. One aspect that stands out in Finland is the support that you get as a student or researcher, both from teachers and the system. It is a huge privilege and more than I could have hoped for. This is the type of support, which is much harder to come by at my home university.

What has been your favorite memory you’ve made so far in Oulu?

It’s hard to pick just one! So far I have enjoyed reindeer racing (although I only won second place), ice swimming on Valentines Day with sauna, seeing the northern lights on Toppilansaari, ice cycling, adventurous backcountry skiing in Lapland, snowmobiling, and meeting Santa Claus (the real one!). I strongly recommend everyone to try all of these.

What advice would you give to someone coming to Oulu?

My advice to Oulu students and visitors is not to stay inside. Go outside, even though it is dark and cold in the winter, and definitely enjoy the long summer days. Take advantage and enjoy to the fullest all that nature has to give up here in the north, which is really special and unique. Don’t be afraid to dive into the ice cold water in the winter and if the light is not letting you sleep on summer nights, go outside and watch how beautiful the sky is with the longest sunset you have ever seen. Get a bike and get lost on the city at least once, it’s the best way to find some of the most beautiful parks, lakes and neighborhoods that you wouldn’t come across otherwise. Help others if you can if they cannot adjust well to the darkness, get them outside into the awakening bright snow. Your time here is not only a great opportunity to get a good education; the experiences that you make here will always be with you and will shape you into your future self.

 

Interested in getting to know some exchange students? Meet some of these students, as well as other exchange students at the University of Oulu’s Festival of Cultures on October 3rd.

Read more: University in the USA vs University in Finland: An Honest Comparison

Morgan Neering

An American exchange student trying to navigate a world in which buses are silent and where McDonald's offers a vegan burger. A firm believer in the idea that "we cannot become what we want by remaining what we are."

Lue lisää:

Oulu on Air – Brace yourselves for Rattoradio.05!

Clean your shoes, do your hair and get your radio-faces ready: Oulu is on air! Live! Every year again, we have our very own student radio Rattoradio; and also this year, there’s going to be an English show among them. We met with the editor-in-chief, spent hours in training sessions and are already really excited to listen to the upcoming shows! If you need some background info, read on!

TEKSTI Bianca Beyer

KUVAT Alisa Tciriulnikova

After other student-ruled cities like Lappeenranta and Tampere had made it a thing, Oulu finally established its own Wappu-radio in 2013.

The idea is fairly easy: Have a radio with different shows on air 24/7 during Wappu. The execution? Surprisingly smooth, too!

On air you can theoretically sell advertising space for all sorts of deals: Equipment, a studio, cash, internet for a live-stream-option or pretty much anything you can think of. Even personnel if needed, but in Rattoradio the technically skilled boys and girls do almost everything themselves. Some students from the University of Applied Sciences have a journalistic background. By today, five years after its launch, even most of the equipment is owned by the non-profit organization Rattoradio itself. The music is played old school style via hundreds of CDs that are borrowed from the library or owned by the show-makers themselves.

Yes, there is a lot of troublesome work behind the entertainment!

By students for students

Who is behind all this? No one else than your fellow students, actually! In fact, why are you not one of them? Anyone can apply with an idea for a show as a producer or as some kind of other helper. Even though the slots have been planned for this year you may still be able to help. Fitting all show-ideas into the one-week-plus program has never been a problem so far, explains the 2017-editor-in-chief Lauri Pekkarinen. Every year the radio is improved and becomes more professional. A formal application including time slot preferences it is now possible to give space to old and new members in a fair and equal manner. 

Around 80 people have announced their interest this year interest for what? Volunteering?. On three days ,the 21st, 26th and 28th of April, between noon and 14 o’clock, the English show “In Your Mama’s House” can be listened both on radio via 98,1 MHz and online. Rattoradio is also interactive which means that the listeners can send out song requests, ideas and random thoughts through a shout-box on the website, or call the studio if they want to hear their voice on air.

Rattoradio won’t ever leave you during Wappu: There is never a minute without a show from April 20th until the day the freshmen are baptized in the river on April 30th. Then it is all over and finally the hosts can enjoy the Wappu celebrations as well.

Lauri remembers the most challenging part of his Rattoradio career, which goes back to the very beginning, to be one 11-hour-show without sleep. Bathroom breaks are only possible during songs. Did you know that a radio show might get a fine from Finnish authorities if the silence lasts for too long? This is some serious business here!

You must obey the rules

The producers and hosts of Rattoradio take their job very seriously even though it’s all voluntary and for fun.

In order for everyone to be prepared for the job there are training sessions organized by the board of the organization to practice speaking, behaving and dealing with unexpected situations. No one should ever forget the one and only Golden Rule of Rattoradio, which is the No-Narcotics rule. Even though it might be challenging during a party-time like Wappu and even though we might find ourselves really funny when we are wasted, let’s be honest: we probably are not. Also, the equipment is just a little bit too expensive to be washed in a beer-bath.

Rule number two is about using swearwords. This rule may be circumvented with money, since hosts who know they are going to use the V-word inevitably in a frequent manner even pay in advance into the swear-jar.

The essence of a smoothly working radio-show is, just like in any well-working relationship, mystery. The studio is a secret place: Even the hosts themselves just recently found out where to show up on Thursday.

It has happened too many times in recent years that uninvited guests have showed up and wanted to “contribute” to the show. Rumor has it that something bad happened when all chairmen of the technical guilds were invited to a show at the same time, which has resulted in having them only one-by-one nowadays. No one wants to talk about the incident in detail since it must have been very traumatizing.

You see, besides the fact that this is a Wappu-program, a time in which people are usually not their brightest selves, Rattoradio is operating rather professionally. After all, the volunteers have a face to lose in front of sponsors and here in Oulu we try to do everything just a little bit better than in other student cities.  

Stay tuned online or through your radio

It sounds that by sticking to a few rules there are fun times ahead when being a part of Rattoradio. Producing and hosting an own show, playing one’s favourite music and maybe even being the background entertainment for one of the Wappu-parties in Teekkaritalo is a great opportunity for stage hogs.

Furthermore, just being in the audience while your friends are hosting is kind of like having a pre-party with them while they just happen to sit in front of a microphone. So don’t miss the shows, starting on 20th of April. If you got interested in being a part of this experience, just contact and see how you can help!

Bianca Beyer

When I don’t sit over plans to erase all evil and meet unicorns, or dream of eating cotton candy, I believe in hard facts and science, doing my PhD in Accounting at the University of Oulu. Using writing as an information transmitter, outlet for creativity or simply for mere entertainment, I believe I am totally living the dream with all my current jobs. Blog: beapproved.wordpress.com

Lue lisää: