"The student culture and education quality here is top-notch"-a student ambassador story
Tell us about yourself and your studies
My name is S M Adnan Faroque from a small tropical country called Bangladesh. Ever since childhood my parents always wanted to send me abroad for higher education. My parents were meritorious students in their time and that is why the pressure was quite intimidating. Yet, I rose up to the challenge and strived to fulfill my parents' expectations. Thus, after completing my undergraduate (Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering) from Bangladesh I began preparation for higher studies application. Suffice it to say that I got lucky and am currently studying Data Science in Tampere University.
Why did you choose your current programme?
While studying my bachelors I chose Artificial Intelligence as my major. Thus, I wanted to pursue my career and further studies in a closely related field. At the time of my application, I found that data science was a quite trending and lucrative subject. Moreover, I could highly benefit from the knowledge that I could gain from this field. Since Tampere University is very generous in terms of offering international scholarships, I ended up studying this subject here in Finland.
Can you share with us your experiences in Finland and Tampere?
Upon arrival, I was received by my childhood friend from Helsinki airport. He helped me get to Tampere. After keeping my baggage, he took me to Rovaniemi where he was staying. I got to experience the wonderful nature of Lapland as well as the lengthy daytime. Most importantly, I got to enjoy one of the delicacies of Rovaniemi, reindeer meat. After a week, I returned to Tampere and I could immediately observe the changes. Tampere had a more comfortable weather. On top of that, the city center was quite lively and everything (places like market, restaurants, campuses, and so on) was very well connected by public transport system. Last but not least, the people of Finland were very helpful. Often when I got lost or could not understand something they were very eager to help. Thus, it has been a wonderful experience so far.
What kind of student activities have you participated in?
It has not been that long since I arrived in Finland. Therefore, I could not take part in many student activities. However, I did join a guild called Tampere University's Guild of Information Technology. They had an event at a local club which I was lucky enough to have participated in it. There I experienced a relaxed social environment apart from being able to have a great time. On the other hand, I had applied to Demola projects in which I am still actively participating. And finally, I was excited as well as grateful to have been accepted as a student ambassador.
What would you say to someone planning to study and live in Tampere?
My advice to someone planning to study and live in Tampere would be to just go for it. We are constantly in a dilemma when we are faced with choices and questions regarding our future endeavors. We spend hours on thinking about the outcomes of our choices. However, as someone studying and living in Tampere, I would greatly encourage to apply to anyone considering to study and live here. Firstly, the student culture and education quality here is top-notch. On top of that, there is an over-abundance of courses to choose from. Finally, the faculties, student associations, staff and everyone in between is greatly helpful and always available when needed. So, just do it! ;)
What is your favourite place in the city to go for fun with friends?
I still have not been able to find my most favorite place in Tampere yet because everyday I go out and I find a better place than the previous one. On top of that, the city changes its beauty with light. Thus, at night I get to experience a completely new Tampere. However, the lake by the Ratina market is a personal favorite. I often find myself sitting there with friends and experiencing peace and tranquility.