The Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland
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The Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland
03.09.2026
Chair of the Representative Council of the Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland (ISYY), Janina Gunnar, represented the Student Union at the Opening Ceremony of the Academic Year 2026–2027 at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) in Kuopio on Thursday 3 September 2026.
In their speech, Gunnar reflected on their own journey as a new student in a new city, and on the opportunities and new communities they’ve encountered during studies.
“My story is just one of many. Through my own experiences, however, I want to remind you, dear students, that your study years can be so much more than just accumulating credits for a degree. University life creates a unique opportunity to try new things and challenge yourself. Through it, you can acquire skills that even coursework cannot directly provide."
"You do not have to handle everything alone; you can and should ask for help when your resources are stretched thin. In this context, I want to warmly thank our university staff and the partners supporting student well-being for the invaluable work you do to uphold our students' ability to cope and thrive.", states Gunnar.
Below, you can read the full speech.
Distinguished Rectors and Deans, honorable guests, students, and the entire university community.
Almost exactly five years ago to the day, I began my medical studies at this university. The move was mostly completed over the preceding weekend, the Digital and Population Data Services Agency had officially declared me a resident of Kuopio, and the morning train had brought me from Hämeenlinna to Kuopio the day before, right after my final summer job shift. These moments remain vividly in my mind; they were, after all, groundbreaking and incredibly exciting times in the life of a recent upper secondary school graduate.
If only I had known then, standing on the threshold of everything new, just how well things would turn out here. Alongside high-quality studies emerged new and wonderful opportunities brought about by the student world. Among other things, I was able to continue advocacy work through our student association and the student union, my adventurous soul found fulfillment through an exchange and international research conferences, and I even found a new calling through my doctoral dissertation work in neurology.
My story is just one of many. Through my own experiences, however, I want to remind you, dear students, that your study years can be so much more than just accumulating credits for a degree. University life creates a unique opportunity to try new things and challenge yourself. Through it, you can acquire skills that even coursework cannot directly provide. I encourage you to openly get to know new people throughout your studies, and to collectively make sure that no one is left alone.
In addition to taking care of each other, I want to emphasize the importance of taking care of your own well-being. Despite the opportunities of student life, the years can also be burdensome at times. Amidst all the expectations, you must have the courage to be merciful to yourself. You do not have to handle everything alone; you can and should ask for help when your resources are stretched thin. In this context, I want to warmly thank our university staff and the partners supporting student well-being for the invaluable work you do to uphold our students' ability to cope and thrive.
The final academic year of my own studies has officially begun, and graduation is already looming ahead. Even though I am moving toward it with confidence, I already recognize a certain wistfulness even this early in the autumn. The years have flown by, and I am not quite ready for the circle to close just yet. However, I already know that the people, lessons, and skills I have come to know and gained thanks to the University of Eastern Finland, will stay with me for the rest of my life.
I wish you all a fruitful and excellent academic year. Thank you.