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Meri Mänty, a second year student in Aalto University, moved to the capital region from Rovaniemi in July 2022. 

”Before starting upper secondary school I wanted to go to medical school, but I didn’t know about all the possible study tracks back then. As I was studying for matriculation exams I noticed that chemistry and especially materials interested me the most. I leaned heavily towards engineering when I was examining the options more carefully”, Meri tells. 

The Otaniemi campus initially seemed big and foreign to Meri, but she quickly learned her way around while walking amongst the red bricked buildings.

”I have enjoyed my time at the campus a lot, and at first I was astonished by the amount of services offered. For example in Rovaniemi there is no separate campus, but the Aalto campus is a world of its own.”

Meri has actively participated in student activities. She was chosen as one of the host/hostess helpers  of the Association of Process Engineering Students, who volunteer for example to organize events, for the year 2023. 

”I have been largely involved in the Association of Process Engineering Students since the beginning. I have visited sittnings meant for first year student’s and other events, and it has been easy to get in. Everyone is sure to find like-minded people here.” 

Meri is only in the beginning stages of her studies, but she already has some ideas about the future. 

”A graduate engineer in chemical engineering can do so many different jobs that there are a lot of options. I’m not necessarily interested in a research career right now, I might be more interested in production and quality control. For example the food industry interests me a lot. And I have always wanted to work in a leadership position.” 

Besides her studies, Meri spends her time on weightlifting. Meri competes representing Rovaniemen Reipas and trains five times a week which brings a nice balance to studying and enhances learning. 

”I do spend my time largely on my studies, but it’s important to keep up with hobbies. I craft whenever I have extra time after my studies and training. With weight lifting, it’s important to keep it fun. It doesn’t need to be so serious.”