Wherever we meet – alumni connections live on

200 alumni celebrated in Helsinki – over €2,000 donated to support student mental health

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At the end of April, nearly 200 former students of the University of Vaasa gathered in Helsinki for the “Tryskööt” event. The event was organised by Katjalina Jyllilä, Janne Lilleberg, Tero Mämmelä, and Risto Pulkka. Participants came from across Finland and around the world – even as far as Singapore and the United States. The evening featured a welcome speech by Vice-Rector Tanja Risikko, lively conversations, shared memories, sing-alongs, and dancing to the tunes of the Vaasa-based party band Allan & The Astronauts.

– Throughout the evening, we kept hearing people say: ‘This is absolutely amazing! When can we do this again?’ said Risto Pulkka, capturing the atmosphere of the event.

The organisers had decided in advance that any proceeds from the event would be directed to benefit current students. During the evening, alumni raised over €2,000 in donations for Nyyti ry to support student mental health.

Friends from the 1980s reunited on the new campus

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On the same day in Vaasa, a group of friends who had studied together in the early 1980s gathered for a reunion. TalentHub Manager Hanna Turpeinen gave them a tour of the University of Vaasa’s recently renovated campus and facilities. For many of the group, the Palosaari campus was a completely new experience – and it left a lasting impression.

– We originally met through the student group organised by the local church. During the reunion, we kept coming back to how important that group was – how vital it was to find like-minded friends and to combat loneliness, said alumna Helena Kantanen.

– Our career paths have been fascinating – some went into international roles, others became entrepreneurs, and quite a few became teachers. We hadn’t met as a group in over 40 years, but after such a wonderful day in Vaasa, we’re sure to meet more often!

First joint alumni event in London

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The University of Vaasa’s alumni network reaches across the world, as our community becomes increasingly international and many graduates build their careers abroad. At the end of May, the University of Vaasa, the Embassy of Finland, and five other Finnish universities organised their first joint alumni event in London. Held at the Ambassador’s residence, the evening offered a chance to network, get inspired, and hear engaging talks.