"My favorite thing about Tampere is that the student culture promotes inclusion"-a student ambassador story
How long have you been in Tampere and what brought you here?
Hello! My name is Naa Ashiorkor Nortey. I am from Ghana, and I have been in Tampere for about 2 months. I came here to pursue my master's degree. These past 2 months have been interesting. I had imagined what living here would be like due to the research I made online, but I can say that my experience has been far beyond my research, and I love that because there have been surprising things about living here.
What subject(s) do you study and what made you choose them?
I study a Master's in Computing Science, Data Science. I chose this because I am very curious about the future of data and its impact now and in the future. Data is powerful so I want to explore more about it, and I believe this course will give me the opportunity to do that. I was excited when I saw that Tampere University offered this course. I believe that this course will equip me for my future endeavors and help me to develop capacity in every way.
What do you like most about Tampere and Finland? What has been the most suprising or different thing about living here?
What I like most about Tampere is that the systems are student-friendly. There are discounts for students such as with transport and some shops. It is easy to locate and access bus stops, tram stops, shopping centres and others. What I like most about Finland are the architecture and nature. What has been most surprising and different about living here is that weather can be cold with a temperature of 5 degrees celsius, but you will see the sun come out to play. In my country when the sun is out, it is always hot and there is no way you will feel cold. Also, it is so surprising the time the sun sets during summer. I admit that it can get lonely if you don't make friends from different cultures that you can hang out with and try new activities together.
What are your hobbies in Tampere? Have you tried out any new hobbies since coming here?
My current hobby in Tampere is walking through the library and exploring the different book sections before borrowing a book. I am still discovering outdoor hobbies in Tampere, though it is getting cold. A new outdoor hobby I have tried is sightseeing. I explored the city center, and it is beautiful with very nice parks.
What kind of student activities have you participated in?
I have joined AIESEC Finland. I am really looking forward to interesting experiences and building myself as I learn from others and share my knowledge too.
What would you say to someone who's trying to decide whether Tampere is the right place to come to study and live?
Tampere is definitely the right place! The systems are structured to be student-friendly. Come with an open mind and the attitude to take advantage of the opportunities around you. Also, do not be scared to ask questions. There are people with the right answers to any question you have.
What is your favourite thing about the student culture in Finland?
My favourite is that student culture promotes inclusion. There are so many international students and there are equal opportunities for local and international students. The academic system is structured in a way that promotes integration among the students.