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"TAMK helps me develop my artistic expressions" - student ambassador story

Published on 30.10.2020
,
updated on 2.12.2020
Tampere University of Applied Sciences
Ahmad Tokallou student ambassador
Did you know Tampere has a vivid Metal scene? Student Ambassador Ahmad Tokallou, originally from Iran, followed his passion for Metal Music all the way to Tampere.

How long have you been in Tampere and what brought you here originally?

I moved to the exciting beautiful city of Tampere in September 2019. I came here chasing my dream of studying Music Production. Another reason that brought me here was the vast metal music scene in Finland, especially in Tampere.

What subject do you study and how did you choose it?

I study Music Production, at the Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Media and Arts.

Back home, I was a member of an Iranian progressive death metal band. We had a fabulously great time together throughout the years. However, I decided to develop my musical skills and point of view in music. I got acquainted with Finland's student community by a friend who had studied in Finland. When I found out that metal music is widely popular in Finland, I wanted to learn more about the country itself. As soon as I discovered the Music Production degree in TAMK and Tampere’s multicultural atmosphere, I realized that it's the best choice for me!

How would you describe Tampere as a student city?

Tampere is a safe, beautiful, peaceful, charming and lively city. It is compact and contemporary, yet surounded by picturesque nature. Here, you can definitely find your place and feel really secure. I have made friends fast during my studies; people who are thoughtful, helpful, kind and talented.

To my surprise, in Tampere we can get student discounts wherever we go; museums, theatres, festivals, cinemas, bars, public transportation, professional training and their examinations, as well as healthcare. In this city, healthcare is one of the brightest systems I’ve seen.

I must admit students literally can find all facilities and services they need related to studies and life. 

Have you had memorable successes in settling in Tampere? How did you overcome difficulties?

Firstly, the most successful thing I have achieved this year is the valuable networks that I built with my classmates and lecturers. Thanks to them, I overcome any difficulty that comes my way. Secondly, I formed a new metal band with a third-year student from my degree. These are the main reasons why my studies and life in Tampere have quickly become the most important and meaningful part of my life.

To whom would you recommend Tampere as a place to study and why?

I recommend Tampere to people who want to follow calm and peaceful studies in a cosmopolitan city. Firstly, the interaction between different study fields gives you the opportunity to broaden your horizons. Secondly, the international environment of the Tampere Universities community provides a setting for intercultural encounters. This also gives me the opportunity to introduce my culture and its traditional music to others. Thirdly and most importantly, studying in such a well-equipped campus and meeting innovative musicians from all around the world helps me develop my artistic expressions.

I was aware that studying abroad is going to be a challenging step. However, I believe that the knowledge and experiences which are gained through this study programme are worth it.

 

Photo: Dimitra Panopoulou-Huovila

 

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TAMK Bachelor's Degree Programme in Media and Arts