Andrea Steiner-Cardell (local coordinator), Christine Hinterleiner (head of the JKU International Office and the JKU representative for EC²U Mobilities), and Vice-Rector Alexander Freischlager (representing EC²U Campus Life), recently visited the University of Turku in Finland. Organized by local coordinators, Liisa Järvinen and Lassi Yli-Muilu, the visit was part of the EC²U Alliance's "Fast-Track to Integration" program, designed to facilitate seamless cooperation between partner universities.

Vice-Rector Alexander Freischlager found the visit to Finland compelling in many ways: "Our trip to the University of Turku was extremely fascinating and informative. In addition to inspiring one-on-one discussions with our EC²U colleagues, we also took away many best-practice examples."

Andrea Steiner-Cardell (local coordinator) added: "After three days of rewarding discussions, sharing experiences, and acquiring fascinating insight, we are left with new perspectives, bonding elements, and a deeper understanding - and not just of what 'winter in Turku' is like."

Christine Hinterleiner, head of the International Office, also voiced her enthusiasm for the University of Turku's outstanding support services: "I was very impressed by the wide range of student support services that UTU offers."

The JKU delegation had an opportunity during their visit to explore the outstanding infrastructure available to students at the University of Turku. They were particularly impressed by the local student association that not only organizes many events, but is also part of a nationwide student movement in Finland. The delegation also learned about the Student Council, an elected biennial body, that plays a pivotal role in overseeing student activities and initiatives.

Inspiration in Abundance
The delegation also discussed the University of Turku's ambassador program that involves international students in various communication and marketing activities. The program strives to give students a voice and include them in the overall communication strategy by serving as facilitators, and participating in peer-to-peer communication. Ambassadors undertake responsibilities such as leading content creation projects, engaging with prospective students, and representing the university as part of their marketing materials. Program participants not only have access to networking opportunities, but also valuable experience in communications, digital channels, and project management. They also meet with other ambassadors to work on joint projects and training sessions, and to hone their skills and foster collaboration.

The visit to the University of Turku was the sixth of seven visits to partner universities and marks an important milestone for the JKU as part of the EC²U alliance. The last visit to IASI University in Romania is scheduled for the end of May. These visits continue to build on the JKU's collaborative efforts, paving the way to support transformative initiatives that transcend disciplinary and geographic boundaries within the EC²U Alliance.