Graduates and soon-to-be graduates were celebrated together

A university-wide celebration for graduates and soon-to-be graduates was held on April 29 at the University of Lapland. At the celebration, the faculties recognized graduates and those about to graduate soon.

At the beginning of the graduation ceremony, Rector Antti Syväjärvi delivered a speech. He noted that the student’s academic journey consists of many parts, but above all, it is an indication of the student’s perseverance, curiosity, and ability to grow. Rector Syväjärvi emphasized that graduating from university is not merely the end of one chapter, but rather the starting point for many new paths, on which each graduate will leave their own mark.

– The world is changing rapidly, but that is precisely why we need experts like you: people who not only adapt to change but also drive it. One of the unique aspects of the University of Lapland is that studying here takes place in an exceptional environment, at the intersection of nature, culture, and internationality. I believe that you have learned to view the world from an increasingly important northern perspective, one that emphasizes sustainability, community, and the ability to see opportunities where others see limitations. In my view, this perspective is an asset worth valuing and utilizing, Syväjärvi stated.

Master of Laws Elina Kuula, who was an active member of student organizations, gave the graduate’s speech. She reminded the audience that the world currently needs science-based knowledge and understanding more than ever before. Kuula emphasized that the new graduates are ready to promote democracy, strengthen knowledge, and respond to future challenges through science and the arts. They are also ready to listen, continue learning, and change course when necessary. 

– For me, and surely for many of us, student organizations and the student community have been an important part of this learning process. In these organizations, we learned things that weren’t in the curriculum – namely, taking responsibility, making decisions, resolving conflicts, and above all, building community. An understanding of what it means to do things together and that the best things rarely happen alone, Kuula said.

In addition to handing out the copies of diplomas, transcripts, and congratulatory roses to those attending the ceremony, each faculty honored one graduate or soon-to-be graduate with a certificate of recognition. The faculties themselves had made the selections and defined the criteria for their choices. 

The faculties honored the following graduates or soon-to-be graduates:

Faculty of Art and Design

Verónica Bautista Vergara, Student of Master’s Degree Programme in Service Design Strategies and Innovations

Criteria: Verónica has been a warm, supportive, and friendly both in and outside the classroom, making life in Rovaniemi more enjoyable for her classmates. Her proactive attitude in class and willingness to contribute have also helped tutors deliver the courses more effectively.

Faculty of Education

Sara Leed, Master of Education

Criteria: High grade on a master’s thesis with a vocational degree as the foundation.

Faculty of Law

Samuli Jestilä, Master of Laws

Criteria: The Faculty of Law congratulates you on your excellent study achievements and wishes you success in your future endeavors.

The Faculty of Social Sciences

Ida Friman, Master of Social Sciences

Criteria: Promoting a sense of community.

Congratulations to all our graduates and soon-to-be graduates!