Lauri Hälinen, 31, startup entrepreneur

‘I founded the startup React & Share with three friends of mine in 2015. Back then, we were a bit fed up with our jobs and wanted to use our time doing something that really interests us.

Our company develops analytics on what users think about web content and how they consume it. The original idea was to develop emotional AI, but that changed when Facebook launched reaction buttons. We made a test and created reaction buttons that could be easily added to any webpage, and they were instantly in demand. In the future, our goal is to go global.

Combing studies and entrepreneurship was tough but rewarding. When I learned something new, such as project management or accounting, I saw at once how I could use it in my own business. I got even more out of my studies because I was able to put them into practice there and then. In August 2017, I graduated as Master of Science in Technology, my main subject being Software and Service Engineering, which combines information technology and service design.

What I particularly liked about the studies was that in addition to IT, there was a strong focus on business economics. Our studies included courses offered by the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, for example. Many courses were also interdisciplinary. It was enriching to work in teams that consisted of students of economic sciences, technology and art.

The studies really prepared me for doing things in practice. They also gave me a realistic idea of what the world of work would be like. I don’t think I could have received a better education for my current work and running a business anywhere else.  

The best part about being an entrepreneur is freedom, which is hard to achieve in any other job. There are, of course, challenges and stressors in running a business, but right now I wouldn’t change this for anything. I’ve found my passion.'