Extracurricular programme for undergraduate summer studies
Get to know your coursemates and Finland through engaging extracurricular activities
Aalto University Summer School is not only about studying but also a social experience. We believe that enjoying the Finnish summer is the best way to get the most out of intense academic experiences and challenging coursework. That is why, each year, students get to enjoy fun, Finnish summer activities and visit the most important summer sites together with coursemates.
Taking courses at Aalto University Summer School is an easy way to grasp Finnish culture and the Helsinki region. Whilst we develop the social program every year, check what we have done in the past and picture yourself spending next summer at Aalto University!
The Finnish summer is one of the most versatile summers you can experience with mild and pleasantly warm weather, although nights can sometimes get cold. You can expect the temperature to range between 10-25 °C, but it can get as hot as 30 °C. Thus, we recommend packing summer clothes while also preparing for chilly moments. Carrying extra layers such as a light jacket, pullover, and long pants will be useful for cooler times and for example, in Helsinki, it is often windy, so layers come in handy. You might want to add a raincoat or an umbrella to your list for rainy days.
Saunas, lakes, and beaches are iconic features of the Finnish summer, so remember to bring a swimsuit and slippers. The sun shines late into the evening, so sunscreen and hats are also recommended during these bright summer months. Lastly, consider packing an eye mask for comfortable sleep.
Here are some examples of social activities and excursion destinations from previous summers to give you a taste of what to expect. Check the graduate course websites or the extracurricular programme for undergraduate students to see what is included this year!
While you are free to dine and tour the area with your new friends on most evenings, we believe that networking and celebrating together with all Summer School students is a good way to get the most out of the social program. We have previously hosted our welcome evenings in Allas Sea Pool, a beautiful seaside terrace in downtown Helsinki, as well as in the Rooftop Bar of Clarion Hotel Helsinki with views over the city.
Once you have had the chance to acquaint yourselves with fellow Aalto University Summer School students during the weeks in Finland, we conclude our summer experience with a dinner and an afterparty together.
Included in your public transportation ticket, the ferry from Kauppatori marketplace takes you to Suomenlinna. This beautiful group of islands was built as a sea fortress, but is nowadays a unique residential area and a great place for a sunny summer picnic seaside. Packed with interesting stories, Suomenlinna has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.
Just under 30 kilometres from Aalto and Central Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park can be reached even with public transportation. Whether you like hiking, berry picking, or just grilling some sausages by a fire, Nuuksio offers various opportunities to experience Finnish nature. Breathe in the fresh forest air and maybe even go for a dip in a lake!
Get to know your coursemates and Finland through engaging extracurricular activities
Our custom programs and some of our courses are up and running throughout the year, and the social program is carefully planned accordingly.
Study programs abroad allow you to explore a new city and culture. Luckily there is a lot to do close to the Aalto University campus.
Not all social program needs to be organized. Exploring Finland yourself can be an inspiring way to spend your summer before, after or in-between the courses you have selected. Here are some tips on how you can complete your journey to be ever so inspiring.
Check out the ‘This is Finland’ page gathered by Aalto University staff for all things and tips Finnish!
Finland’s excellent reputation in education, combined with a wide range of courses offered in English, makes Finland and Aalto University an attractive study destination for international students.
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