A Sense of Belonging
Joining the board allowed me to become part of a diverse community. The association is dedicated to helping international degree students in Tampere. I joined during COVID restrictions, and finding friends or a community was tricky. ESN FINT welcomed me with open arms and offered me the opportunity to be part of something.
Professional and Personal Growth
Being on the board of a student association is about much more than just organizing events. It’s an exciting and fulfilling journey of self-discovery and personal development that you don’t want to miss out on! I have learned valuable skills in project management, teamwork, event planning, and intercultural communication. These skills have proven incredibly beneficial both for my ESN FINT role and job searches. Of course, balancing uni work and association work isn’t always easy, and there can be some tension within the board. Still, I see it as a positive experience that taught me a lot.
Making a Real Impact
ESN FINT’s mission to support international students aligns with my values. Through my involvement with the board, I am able to make a positive impact on the lives of international students in Tampere. Seeing the direct results of our efforts in creating a more secure and welcoming environment for our fellow students is very rewarding.
Networking and Collaboration
Being part of the ESN FINT board also opened doors to new connections and collaborations. I had the chance to work with various local organizations and fellow students, which expanded my academic and personal network. This network has proven invaluable for my thesis research and beyond.
Finding Balance
Balancing my responsibilities on the board with my thesis work and personal life is a challenging but rewarding task. It taught me time management, prioritization, and resilience. This experience has helped me navigate the demands of my master’s thesis and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
A Life-Changing Experience
In conclusion, becoming part of the board of ESN FINT has been a life-changing experience. It has allowed me to integrate my academic pursuits with real-world impact and personal growth. I have found a sense of purpose and belonging within this community. As I continue my journey towards completing my master’s thesis on the everyday security perceptions of international degree students in Tampere, I’m deeply grateful for the profound impact that ESN FINT has had on my life.
I encourage you to take the leap if you consider involvement in a student association. The experiences and opportunities that await may change your life in ways you never imagined.
If you are interested in joining or becoming active in ESN FINT, check out our website here.
About the Author
Emma is currently finalizing her master‘s in Security Governance at Tampere City Center Campus. She has been a board member of the international student association ESN FINT ry for two years now. She wants to tell you more about how joining the association has contributed to her study experience.
