Next Monday, the campus will be filled with new, enthusiastic students.

Kumpula Science campus will be introduced to the new students during
Science Bazaar on 28 August at 13-17. You are warmly welcome to participate
in the event and greet the newcomers.

Please note that the new students need support and assistance from the
campus staff. The students are our most important asset, and often the
interest towards the scientific world is formed during the first few weeks
of their studies. Putting emphasis on the welcoming atmosphere of the
University and sense of belonging at the Department is just as important as
the orientation course and other official lectures.

The way new students are welcomed has a significant role in the Faculty s
student recruitment. From the start, the students have to be provided with
as comprehensive and positive image of Kumpula Science Campus as possible.
The new students of different universities, departments and faculties
exchange views actively during their first few
weeks through social media, for example.

Investing in the first study weeks pays off. Every one of us can do their
part in making the students feel at home in Kumpula from the first day.
Offering assistance to a student, who seems lost, discussing with him or
her, introducing the department, or just greeting the students with a smile
makes them feel welcome. Spontaneous laboratory visit or coffee break is
best publicity for campus s social atmosphere.

I hope that you recognise the needs of the new students. It is important to
provide them with all the possible support in integrating into the
department, student community, and studies.

With best wished for the new academic year,

Keijo Hämäläinen
Dean