Studies opened the doors to the world of programming for Veera Ihalainen

The major of Digital Systems and Design grabbed Veera Ihalainen’s attention as soon as she heard the name of the programme for the first time. She definitely wanted to study in English and challenge herself in an international environment, as well as get to know people from different backgrounds. In her opinion, the active guild serves as a good counterweight to studying.

Why did you choose the Aalto Bachelor’s Programme in Science and Technology – Digital Systems and Design?

I went to an English upper secondary school and I absolutely wanted to continue studying in English. I am interested in digitalisation and innovations, which is why I wanted to apply to the field of technology. I first heard about this major when one professor came to my upper secondary school to talk about Aalto’s new bachelor’s degree programmes offered in English. The programme caught my attention already based on its name. It seemed like a degree combining creativity with technology, theory, and programming.

What has been the most interesting aspect of your studies?

The most interesting aspect has been learning how to programme and what can be done through programming. It has been a whole new world to me, as I do not have a background in coding. 

One good thing about our programme is that the courses in the major subject are very interactive as our group sizes are so small. You also get to know the course lecturers and assistants.

I have been actively involved in the Guild of Automation and Systems Technology (AS) as a graphic artist and social media specialist. Next year, I will be the Fuksi Captain on the guild’s board. We have a really great group of people in the guild. I have made many new friends and got to do things I would not be able to do otherwise. I encourage everyone to participate in the guild: it serves as a great counterbalance to studies!

What has been the most interesting course?

Definitely the first-year project course where we made a prototype of a practical product. Our group’s project was a monitor through which you could sign yourself in digitally using an NFC card. The project was a lot of fun! We had an opportunity to build different devices with microcontrollers and print on a 3D printer, to mention just a couple of examples. This autumn, I had the chance to work as a course assistant on this course.

How have your studies prepared you for working life?

First of all, I have already obtained a job at the university as a course assistant! I am sure it will be very useful when I apply for work in the future. The guild and the school organise various events and excursions that have provided us with an opportunity to see what kind of work graduates from our field engage in.

It is also very much possible that some of the students in my year will become my colleagues in the future.

What does the future of your field look like?

Our field is very diverse, and you can find employment anywhere!

This field is suitable for people who want to develop innovations and are interested in digital development. After the bachelor’s degree phase, there are several different options for a master’s programme, and I am particularly interested in the Software and Service Engineering major and UI/UX Design. I believe that I will have no difficulty finding a job in that sector.

The English programme is an excellent choice if you want to challenge yourself in an international environment. I believe that people who have not attended a general upper secondary school in English can also apply to the programme as long as they can write and express themselves in English.

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