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Why did you choose Aalto and DIEM for your education?

When I decided to pursue a master’s degree, I was considering universities in both Europe and the United States. Although most of my family was based in the U.S., I wanted a different experience by studying in Europe. At the time, Aalto University's Industrial Engineering and Management (DIEM) program in Finland offered a specialization in service management and engineering, which perfectly matched my interests. This led me to choose Aalto University, a decision that, while it felt a bit random at the time, turned out to be one of the best I've ever made! All I knew about Finland was Nokia, but moving there for my Master’s introduced me to so much more—an incredible academic community and a unique life experience.

How would you describe the community?

The Industrial Engineering and Management community is built on a remarkable team of teachers, researchers, and staff who foster both productivity and genuine support. An experience that stands out to me happened early in my PhD journey. One evening, while working late, I ran into Professor Risto Rajala in the kitchen. We ended up talking for a long time—he was working on one of his publications, and I was drafting a proposal for a PhD grant. He shared invaluable insights on writing successful grants and much more, leaving a lasting impression on me. I realized that our community isn’t just about teaching and academic knowledge creation; it’s also about lifelong learning, mutual support, and sharing both successes and setbacks. This sense of support has been one of the most valuable aspects of my time here.

When you think about the Prodeko guild, what comes to mind first?

The Prodeko Guild of Industrial Engineering and Management students was a significant part of my life during my study years at Aalto University. I spent countless hours in the guild room, often playing billiards with fellow students or watching movies. But beyond that, Prodeko was a place where lifelong friendships and professional networks were built. The guild organizes events that are immensely beneficial for students who are job-seeking or looking to expand their professional connections. In my case, Prodeko provided opportunities to connect with companies and management consulting firms, attend case exercises, and participate in debate events—experiences that helped me forge relationships that would later become essential to my career. As an international student, it also required a fair amount of proactivity to realize some of these benefits. The guild is where personal connections and career paths naturally begin to intertwine.

Can you share a memorable experience you had with a professor or course that had a significant impact on you?

One of the most impactful courses I took at Aalto was Industrial Service Operations, which at the time was led by Professor Jan Holmström. What made it so influential was the format: Jan selected around 25 to 30 themed articles, and for each lecture, we would read two or three articles on the same topic.

The discussions that followed were deep, critical, and eye-opening. We were tasked with identifying common themes and connecting them to a broader perspective using real-world cases. It wasn’t just about absorbing information—it was about understanding the bigger picture, a perspective that has profoundly shaped the way I approach research and teaching today.

What advice would you give to current and potential students?

If you’re looking for a place that will challenge you to grow both academically and personally, Aalto University is the perfect choice. Here, you’ll develop hard skills through rigorous coursework and build essential soft skills through countless interactions and collaborations—whether in group assignments or, if you’re proactive, by engaging in student events.

For those already at Aalto, I encourage you to make the most of the opportunities available and reach your full potential while pursuing your interests. Don’t hesitate to explore different paths and follow your passions. Industrial Engineering and Management is an incredible field that offers flexibility and interdisciplinarity, allowing you to discover your niche and thrive in it. And remember: failure is part of the journey. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward.