School of Business donor stories: Tatu Pohjola

My Story

Next autumn, I have worked five years in Aalto University’s communications team. After receiving the message addressed to the alumni on donating, I had to think hard if I wanted to make a donation. After all, I already give the university my work and sometimes even free time.

I studied in Kauppis in 1985-91, during an eventful period which I still remember with great warmth. The second-best thing for a young man during the studies were the experiences: choral trips to Asia, Europe, and America; organizing and participating student events; being part of a long tradition in an unprecedented environment.

But the best thing was the community that I got into: a large, happy and supportive group of people who are curious for new and strive for better. The group has given me a large intellectual capital since my first year of study. Life has not always been on the rise, but then again life always on the rise would not be a rich life. Intellectual capital, that is, knowledge and coping skills, has however taken me forward to new growth. This is what I hope to pass on to future generations.

Kauppis is nowadays part of Aalto University. Into the tripod of technology, business, and art and design, the School of Business adds knowledge that brings continuous and sustainable development to society. I believe that the role of economy is to enable sustainable growth. For this task, I wanted to hand out my little gift, wishing happiness and success to the 110-year-old from the bottom of my heart.

Tatu Pohjola

Master of Ceremonies, Aalto University