Civil engineering student Emma Lahtinen appreciates hands-on projects and the warm sense of community

Why did you choose the Master’s Programme in Civil Engineering, and why did you originally decide to apply to Aalto?

I have always enjoyed natural sciences and visual design. In lower secondary school, I considered studying architecture. During upper secondary school, however, I realized that my enthusiasm for mathematics, my creative problem-solving skills, my three-dimensional thinking, and my interest in architecture all come together in civil engineering studies. After completing my bachelor’s studies in mechanical and civil engineering, choosing my master’s programme was therefore an easy decision. I applied to Aalto because I knew it offered high-quality teaching and vibrant student life.

What has been the most interesting part of your studies?

The most interesting part has been working on applied design assignments. In the Engineering Design Exercises course, students could choose a module focusing on timber, concrete, or steel structures, where we designed the load-bearing structures of a sports hall — from foundations to frame structures and roof beams. The course was taught by an instructor who works professionally in structural engineering. I also really enjoyed the visit to a commercial testing laboratory during the fire engineering course.

What is studying at Aalto like in practice?

The Department of Civil Engineering has a small and warm community where it is easy to approach teachers, even informally in the coffee room. The course groups in the master’s programme are also small, which means teachers have more time to personally guide students. Practical assignments play an important role in course assessment, so students genuinely prepare for exams by studying consistently throughout the entire six-week course.

What is the best part of student life?

The best part of student life is its diversity and delightfully sensible craziness. Everyone can find a community that suits them in Otaniemi. During my master’s studies, I have also made many international friends, which has definitely been enriching.

What do you hope for from your future career?

In the future, I want to design timber structures and promote fire safety and circular economy principles in the construction industry. My goal is first to work in structural engineering and then explore the broader opportunities the field offers through work experience. If I find a clear passion and a suitable research topic, doctoral studies could also be an option.

Have you worked in your field during the summers or alongside your studies?

During my bachelor’s studies, I worked as a site engineering trainee at a main contracting company during the summers. I consider the experience extremely valuable because management roles on construction sites provide a comprehensive understanding of the different phases of a building project and help you understand how design solutions affect practical work. I also learned a great deal of professional construction terminology.