Visiting professor David Volkman: “The academic environment of the BScBA Program is exceptional.”

When did you come to teach in the BScBA Program for the first time?

The first time I taught a course at Mikkeli was in 2001. I then returned in 2007 and have taught every year since.

What makes you want to come back to Mikkeli?

The students are exceptional and fellow faculty members are interesting. The students are very intelligent and have an affinity for a difficult subject such as Finance. In addition, the students have a well-rounded background with many of the students traveling internationally.

How are the students at the BScBA Program?

Every year, I am impressed by the intellect and desire to learn of the BScBA student body. Although at times a bit reserved, the students are very respectful and friendly with the faculty. But what is notable every time I return is the exceptional intellect and the students ability to address extremely difficult topics such as Finance.

How are the courses/studies here different from your home university?

The pedagogical approach and rigor are very similar to that at my home University. The obvious difference is the tenure of the course. The course is over a three-week period in Mikkeli and is over a three month period at my home university. The abbreviated instructional time makes for a very intense course.

What have you learned from your visits to Mikkeli?

In the US, one can become very myoptic and believe the rest of the world thinks like we do. Meeting the students and faculty from all parts of the globe, helps me to understand that there are many varying points of view outside of the US.

What do you think about the 3-module system?

The 3-module system creates a very intense and compact learning environment. However, because of the structure of the courses, students have the opportunity to focus on one subject without distractions of other courses. This is a significant advantage over a semester long program where students may be concerned about 5 or 6 topics to study at one time.

Your funniest memory from Mikkeli?

Over the years I have accumulated many fond memories of the students and of Finland, but one that quickly comes to mind is attending a Jukurit hockey game. It is no surprise that Finns are very reserved in expressing their emotions. While at the game, I witnessed extraordinary play with expert passing between players, coordinated teamwork, and a resulting goal. Just like I would do at a game in the US, I stood up, whistled, and cheered after the Jukurits scored. However, I quickly realized that I was the only standing and cheering. Everyone else, in typical Finish fashion, were politely clapping. Embarrassingly, I sat back down and reminded myself that I was in Finland.