School of Business

School of Business alumni stories

On this page you can find School of Business alumni stories. Our alumni share their professional journeys and give advice and tips regarding working life. In addition, they reminisce about their time as university students. As the articles have been published during different years, some of the alumni may have changed their work position. The stories have been sorted based on the alumni's majors. The newest publications are placed first in the major groups. 
School of Business students sitting
Photo: Unto Rautio

Latest alumni stories

Picture of Maija Keskinen

Alum Maija Keskinen: I enjoy learning new things and trying out different roles

Our alum, Maija Keskinen, knew from the start that she wanted to study economics. "Meaningful work to me means being able to serve society and do my part to ensure that decisions made in public administration are based on the highest quality information possible," Keskinen explains.

News
Jenni Kynnös

Alum Jenni Kynnös: 'Meaningful work to me means the freedom to pursue my own vision and constant change'

Marketing alum Jenni Kynnös worked at her parents chocolate shop and in marketing agencies before accidentally becoming an entrepreneur.

News
Maria Lehto graduation photo

Alum Maria Lehto: My hobbies have had a big influence in my career and through them I have had my first leadership experiences

Maria Lehto has had an exciting career path to her current position as an Engagement Specialist at School of Business Premium Partner company, Konecranes. Even though the path didn’t always feel so straightforward, all experiences have played a part in her professional development. She would like to encourage young students to follow their own areas of interest and trust that it will lead them to the right direction in the end.

News
Kuva Emilia Pertusta

Alumna Emilia Perttu: 'I had the courage to follow my dreams and put in the effort for what interested me'

Our alumna, Emilia Perttu has always known she wanted to work in the field of technology and innovation. Through her studies she started to search for a career path that suited her. Eventually, her efforts paid off, and today she works as a lead UI/UX designer at the hybrid agency Nitro.

News

Management and International Business

Henri Yoki: When my children ask what their dad is doing, I answer that I am solving the climate crisis

Henri Yoki, M.Sc. in both tech and business, founded his first company while studying international business at the School of Business. Today, he is the Founder and CEO of a company focusing on green energy transition. There, he gets to widely apply everything he learned during his career and studies.

Alumnus Henri Yoki

Alumnus Michael Hanf: Finland provides a great place to live and work

‘Helsinki caught my attention as it was different from the typical locations my fellow students selected.’ says Michael Hanf who came to do exchange studies at the then Helsinki School of Economics in the end of 1990s. After that he has been working in Finland and Germany and currently is the co-founder of Taival Advisory, helping clients to consider sustainability and circularity in their strategic decision making.

Michael Hanf in his work.

Alumnus Tomi Nyman: Sales business is consultative and creative problem solving

Tomi Nyman, who works as National Manager at Hilti, says that social skills and mentality for continuous learning are the most important skills in today’s working life. That’s why the understanding of how I learn is the single most important lesson learnt at university. Nyman’s study combination, Management as a major and Finance as a minor, is especially useful in his current position.

Tomi Nyman.

Alumni Ambassador Niklas Huotari: I like that there is always an opportunity to learn more

‘It’s worth following your own interests and enthusiasm, because then there’s a better chance of really becoming good at something.’ says Niklas Huotari, a new School of Business Alumni Ambassador and the CEO of aTalent Recruiting.

Niklas Huotari

Alumna Wen Hui-Tu: If you are interested in working in the gaming industry, don't be hesitant if you don't have any programming background

‘I had never imagined myself working for a mobile game company until I started exploring this industry while writing my Master’s thesis,’ tells our alumna Wen-Hui Tu, who combined Management studies with more quantitative courses through Information and Service Management minor, and now works as an App Store Optimization Specialist at Next Games.

Wen-Hui Tu

Alumna Tiina Palmunen: Presentation, cooperation and teamwork skills are crucial in working life

Our alumna Tiina Palmunen became interested in Kesko’s trainee program when she met with an HR representative of that company at Aalto Summer Job Day. At her current position as HR Specialist at Employee Responsibility at Kesko, she works with diversity and inclusion matters.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Tiina Palmunen

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member's story: Alexei Koveshnikov

Alexei Koveshnikov, who is our alumnus and Associate Professor in Management and Organization at the School of Business, became also a member of our School’s Alumni Advisory Board in fall 2020. He encourages students to obtain meta-skills and meta-competences, which are invaluable in today’s business life.

Alexei Koveshnikov, Associate Professor at the School of Business

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member's story: Norbert Juhász

The School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member Norbert Juhász studied in International Business and CEMS MIM master’s programmes. Aalto student community, business case competitions with fellow students and the possibility to study and live completely in English in Finland are very memorable to him. “Being an alumnus means being part of a community and being part of a shared history with that community.”

Norbert Juhász, member of the School of Business Alumni Advisory Board

Alumna Julia Österlund: Responsibility and success boost courage, and failure helps you grow

School of Business alumna Julia Österlund studied two different majors at school and thinks that the diverse studies benefit her in her current job: ‘It is also great that I can combine everything I have studied at school - marketing, communications, information technology and calculus.’

Julia Österlund, School of Business alumna in School of Business alumni story

Alumna Anne Tolonen: In an international career courage and hard work will pay off

Our alumna Anne Tolonen always knew she would go to work abroad after studies. After spending over 5 years abroad in different management positions, she has learnt to appreciate inspiring and caring leadership manners.

School of Business alumna: Anne Tolonen

Alumnus Jesús Manuel Castro Félix: It is important to develop skills that help working with all kinds of people

Good communication and continuous learning were the most important takeaways for the MIB alumnus.

Kuvassa näkyy Jesús Manuel Castro Félix.

Alumna Essi Raitala: Business studies create an excellent basis for a diplomatic career

Diverse career opportunities and varying tasks got our alumna Essi Raitala interested in a career in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Currently, she is on her first posting at the Embassy of Finland in Nairobi.

School of Business alumna Essi Raitala

Alumna Katariina Koskelainen: I would describe the work of a consultant as creative problem-solving

Katariina Koskelainen studied in the School of Business during the years 2008–2013, leadership and management as her major. She works currently as a Senior Consultant at CIVITTA. We asked Katariina to share her insights on working as a consultant and how to pursue a consulting career.

School of Business alumna Katariina Koskelainen

Kirsikka Lehto-Asikainen

The Ambassador of Finland to Israel, Kirsikka Lehto-Asikainen, is an alumna of the School of Business. As a student, she set her sights on becoming a citizen of the world and she has stayed the course ever since.

Kirsikka Lehto-Asikainen

Alumni Ambassador Mia Sirkiä: You should always navigate according to your own passion and interests

“For me, choosing the major subject was very difficult, as I did not want to delimit any options at the time when I was interested in many things”, reflects Mia Sirkiä, the School of Business Alumni Ambassador. She encourages students in similar situations: ”Think about your own interests and navigate according to those. True passion will lead to prosperity!”

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Mia Sirkiä

Alumni Ambassador Miikka Huhta: The Aalto University Mentoring Programme benefited me a lot

“I applied to the Aalto University Mentoring Program, and I’m glad I did, since it benefited me a lot!” says the School of Business Alumni Ambassador Miikka Huhta. He emphasizes that the Mentoring Program is a good chance to get peer support from the other mentees.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Miikka Huhta

Alumnus Niklas Karvonen: Working abroad is about the balance between my own doing, my values and different working methods in a specific country

Several different experiences and occasions from Aalto University have affected the employment of the School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen, who worked as a Business Design Manager at 16Lab in Tokyo in 2018-2019.

Currently Karvonen is working at a Tokyo-based coding bootcamp Code Chrysalis as a Marketing and Community Lead (2020).

School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen

Alumna Anna Pakkala: I wish that even more young people would see entrepreneurship as a considerable career path

Anna Pakkala was the 2018 Head of Sustainability at Slush. At the moment, Pakkala is working as a Brand Manager at Compensate (2020).

School of Business alumna Anna Pakkala

Alumni Ambassador Juuso Leivonen: Hobbies and working at a student union have marked a strong start to my career

The Secretary General of the Association of Business Schools Finland, our alumnus Juuso Leivonen created a job out of his study-time activities at the student association.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Juuso Leivonen

Alumni Ambassador Elisa Liekkilä: My major helped me focus on the things that really interested me

Our alumna Elisa Liekkilä takes part in the School’s ARENA Career Fair on November 14 as the company representative of Tieto. “At the ARENA Career Fair, one can search for inspiration, knowledge, support and advice by getting to know different companies”, says Liekkilä.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Elisa Liekkilä

Alumni Ambassador Terttu Sopanen: The studies have given me a good basis to deepen my knowledge

Terttu Sopanen, a Senior Consultant at Brunnen Communications and a School of Business alumna is glad to be working in the field of communication: "We help our customers to be more impressive and to make results that are more visible."

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Terttu Sopanen

Alumni Ambassador Tatu Mäkilä: I can warmly recommend entrepreneurship, if you are interested in taking small risks

Entrepreneur, our alumnus Tatu Mäkilä wants to support fresh entrepreneurs and help students to reach for their dreams.
"To me, being an alumnus means giving back, and thus, I am very pleased to help", says Mäkilä."

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Tatu Mäkilä

Alumni Ambassador Susanna Hyppönen: You can always change the direction and make new choices later on in your career

“Developing the resilience to adapt to possible changes and being ready to continue learning also after the graduation are huge assets in the working life”, reminds our alumna Susanna Hyppönen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Susanna Hyppönen

Alumni Ambassador Mikko Kosonen: Knowing people widely from different sectors benefits you in the future

President of Sitra and School of Business alumnus Mikko Kosonen challenges students to plan their studies well. ”Tackling different challenges demands cooperation between the public and private sector, and it is no more enough to know only your own field well”, advises Kosonen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Mikko Kosonen

Alumni Ambassador Emilia Rantala: The Aalto on Waves trip was a turning point in my life

Our alumna Emilia Rantala became accidentally part of one of the very first Aalto-level study projects at the newly formed university. Aalto on Waves took her from Lisbon over the Atlantic Ocean all the way to Brazil, and brought along a broad network and many new friendships.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Emilia Rantala

Alumni Ambassador Minna Rissanen: Aalto University enables countless study combinations, and that is how everyone can find their own thing

Ambitious Minna Rissanen has gained a huge advantage from the interdisciplinary programs at Aalto University, and encourages current students to take on new subjects, also outside their own degree.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Minna Rissanen

Alumni Ambassador Sirpa Widomski: The studies in the School of Business have strengthened my abilities and self-confidence

Aalto University School of Business alumna Sirpa Widomski appreciates the broad expertise and networking opportunities granted for the students in the Aalto University.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Sirpa Widomski

Alum Maria Lehto: My hobbies have had a big influence in my career and through them I have had my first leadership experiences

Maria Lehto has had an exciting career path to her current position as an Engagement Specialist at School of Business Premium Partner company, Konecranes. Even though the path didn’t always feel so straightforward, all experiences have played a part in her professional development. She would like to encourage young students to follow their own areas of interest and trust that it will lead them to the right direction in the end.

Maria Lehto graduation photo

CEMS MIM

BScBA alumna Julia Romanyuk sitting in front of mountain landscape

Alumna Julia Romanyuk: Studying at Mikkeli Campus gives the graduates an important advantage

During her career in rhythmic gymnastics, Julia Romanyuk, a multiple Finnish champion and the School of Business Mikkeli campus alumna learnt many skills that have been valuable outside athletics as well: ‘I have applied these practical skills, such as time management and having a high drive, in my studies and personal life.’

News
Alumnus Henri Yoki

Henri Yoki: When my children ask what their dad is doing, I answer that I am solving the climate crisis

Henri Yoki, M.Sc. in both tech and business, founded his first company while studying international business at the School of Business. Today, he is the Founder and CEO of a company focusing on green energy transition. There, he gets to widely apply everything he learned during his career and studies.

News
Norbert Juhász, member of the School of Business Alumni Advisory Board

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member's story: Norbert Juhász

The School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member Norbert Juhász studied in International Business and CEMS MIM master’s programmes. Aalto student community, business case competitions with fellow students and the possibility to study and live completely in English in Finland are very memorable to him. “Being an alumnus means being part of a community and being part of a shared history with that community.”

News
School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen

Alumnus Niklas Karvonen: Working abroad is about the balance between my own doing, my values and different working methods in a specific country

Several different experiences and occasions from Aalto University have affected the employment of the School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen, who worked as a Business Design Manager at 16Lab in Tokyo in 2018-2019.

Currently Karvonen is working at a Tokyo-based coding bootcamp Code Chrysalis as a Marketing and Community Lead (2020).

News
School of Business Alumni Ambassador Minna Rissanen

Alumni Ambassador Minna Rissanen: Aalto University enables countless study combinations, and that is how everyone can find their own thing

Ambitious Minna Rissanen has gained a huge advantage from the interdisciplinary programs at Aalto University, and encourages current students to take on new subjects, also outside their own degree.

News

Creative Sustainability

Alumnus Mikko Jääskeläinen: Studying at the School of Business has opened many professional doors

Our alumnus Mikko Jääskeläinen, who majored in Creative Sustainability and also studied finance, ended up working in management consulting after graduation. While in that position, he became fascinated by transport and real estate infrastructure projects, which led him to a job involving urban economy and land use general planning for the City of Helsinki, and from there, a position at the Ministry of Transport and Communications. The best parts of his job are the interesting tasks and his knowledgeable colleagues.

Mikko Jääskeläinen

School of Business alumna Oona Anttila: Internship was an important experience for my career

Our alumna Oona Anttila became interested in the themes of sustainable development already at the beginning of her studies, and later she applied for the multidisciplinary Creative Sustainability master’s programme. Currently, she works at the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Nairobi, Kenya.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Oona Anttila

Alumnus Nicolas Dolce: Sustainability is only going to become a more important topic, one that practitioners of many different professions will need to be familiar with

Study course projects and a Social Hackathon competition helped Nicolas Dolce, our Creative Sustainability alumnus, to prepare for working in sustainability consulting. 'The Capstone course sharpened my project management, client interface, and business development skills.'

School of Business alumnus Nicolas Dolce

Alumna Anna Pakkala: I wish that even more young people would see entrepreneurship as a considerable career path

Anna Pakkala was the 2018 Head of Sustainability at Slush. At the moment, Pakkala is working as a Brand Manager at Compensate (2020).

School of Business alumna Anna Pakkala

Accounting

Various career paths: tax expert Saara Hietanen is building a better world

Saara Hietanen became interested in organisational activities in upper secondary school through her love for animals, but only started a career in organisations and advocacy work after working in an international auditing company. Instead of animal rights, Hietanen ended up promoting fair taxation.

Kuvassa saara Hietanen seisoo Kauppakorkeakoulun aulassa portaiden edessä.

Alumna Katri Kaitila: Of the skills I learned in my time at the School of Business, I consider the basics I learned in accounting courses to be the most important

Katri Kaitila works as an Audit Manager at PwC in Private Company Services. What sorts of skills have been useful in Katri's work? And what advice would Katri give herself at the beginning of her studies? Read about Katri’s career path.

Katri Kaitila

Alumna Kati Ovaska: No one is ready after they graduate – the work itself teaches you more

I would argue that there is no better start to your career than being an associate in audit practice says Kati Ovaska who has had multiple work opportunities within the company after graduation. EY encourages people to take the steering wheel of their career: 'Your career, it’s yours to build'.

Kati Ovaska

School of Business donor stories: Olli Karkkila

I remember studying with great warmth and have very fond memories of student life. I have been able to work with great people in Finland’s leading companies. For this, I feel deep gratitude to the School of Business.

Olli Karkkila

School of Business Donor Stories: Roope Rekola

‘I feel that I have received a lot from the School for life, and without Kauppis, I certainly would not be in that place in life where I am now.’

Roope Rekola

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member's story: Pasi Torppa

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member Pasi Torppa studied Accounting in the School of Business and has done a long career in management consulting. Currently, he is a private investor and a board member or chairman in several companies.

Pasi Torppa, member of the School of Business Alumni Advisory Board

Alumnus Sakari Saarela: One of the most important things you can gain from your studies are the relationships with your fellow students

Our alumnus Sakari Saarela, who works as a M&A advisor in an investment bank in London, emphasizes the importance of his study time friends and mentoring in helping him to gain preparedness for working life and to proceed to interesting work assignments in his career.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Sakari Saarela

Alumnus Ilkka Siitonen: Internships gave me good motivation to complete my studies

School of Business alumnus Ilkka Siitonen encourages students to participate in the events organized together with different companies. “In those events, you get to meet the employees face-to-face and ask them about their job.”

School of Business alumnus Ilkka Siitonen

Alumni Ambassador Emilia Rantala: The Aalto on Waves trip was a turning point in my life

Our alumna Emilia Rantala became accidentally part of one of the very first Aalto-level study projects at the newly formed university. Aalto on Waves took her from Lisbon over the Atlantic Ocean all the way to Brazil, and brought along a broad network and many new friendships.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Emilia Rantala

Alumni Ambassador Matti Honkala: Studying is always worth the time that you spend on it

"Accept the job when offered, and don’t be too picky in the beginning", says our alumnus Matti Honkala to the current students.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Matti Honkala

Marketing

Alum Jenni Kynnös: 'Meaningful work to me means the freedom to pursue my own vision and constant change'

Marketing alum Jenni Kynnös worked at her parents chocolate shop and in marketing agencies before accidentally becoming an entrepreneur.

Jenni Kynnös

Various career paths: Markus Puhakka develops a family-run horticultural business and enjoys gardening in the spring

Puhakka, who also considered the profession of a wilderness guide, studied marketing and international business management at the School of Business. Now he combines his business expertise with garden work in a Finnish family business specialising in horticulture.

Kuvassa Markus Puhakka seisoo puutarhamyymälässä, ja ympärillä näkyy viherkasveja.

Alumnus Aki Toivonen: The role of marketing and branding will only be emphasized in business in the future

‘I believe that the role of marketing and branding will only be emphasized in business in the future as we move from the current consumer culture to increasingly conscious choices’

Aki Toivonen.

School of Business donor stories: Tiina and Ari Mäkelä

'It is wonderful that both Aalto University and the School of Business are both so exceptionally forward-looking.'

Tiina ja Ari Mäkelä Ekonominaukiolla. Kuva: Roope Kiviranta

Alumna Iida Valin: There are still many possibilities for learning after graduation

'Interdisciplinarity and versatile possibilities to shape your studies, were definite strengths in Aalto. I believe that studying subjects differing so strongly from each other has helped me in my career. Especially during change situations, since changing my own perspective has been easier,' says our alumna Iida Valin, who works in the communications department of Posti Group, one of School of Business partner companies.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Iida Valin.

Alumnus Jukka Kajan: Even good things have to be marketed, otherwise they won't fly

Our marketing alumnus Jukka Kajan founded Joukon Voima, a crowdfunding platform for sustainable projects, and now works with plant-based food and plant proteins at Verso Food. ‘In my career, I have always been involved in the transition of various industries.’

Jukka Kajan. Kuvaaja: Aino Huotari

School of Business donor stories: Tianyi Pan

‘The business studies and a very international career brought me a unique ability to see things from many different perspectives and very holistically, not just from a certain point of view,’ tells our alumnus and donor Tianyi Pan, who works with AI and machine learning in Shanghai.

Tianyi Pan

School of Business donor stories: Seija Goldstein

'As I graduated from the Helsinki School of Economics, I could not have expected in my wildest dreams that I would end my career as a nationally recognized expert in regional publishing – in the United States!'

Seija Goldstein

Alumnus Ville Vahteri: The opportunity cost of becoming an entrepreneur as a student is often at its lowest level

Our alumnus Ville Vahteri, who studied marketing at the School of Business, was actively involved in organizing the startup event Slush throughout his studies. Emboldened by the experience, he co-founded Bou, a brand company, together with his Slush colleagues.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Ville Vahteri

Alumna Julia Österlund: Responsibility and success boost courage, and failure helps you grow

School of Business alumna Julia Österlund studied two different majors at school and thinks that the diverse studies benefit her in her current job: ‘It is also great that I can combine everything I have studied at school - marketing, communications, information technology and calculus.’

Julia Österlund, School of Business alumna in School of Business alumni story

Alumna Noora Kinnunen: Studying marketing provided me with broad opportunities for my future career

School of Business alumna Noora Kinnunen found a job in her own field already during her studies with the help of Aalto’s job portal. She encourages students to take advantage of the services at Aalto and for example take part in the Aalto Talent Expo recruiting fair at the end of October.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Noora Kinnunen

Alumni Ambassador Markus Helaniemi: It is important to read a lot and follow the news outside your own expertise area

“Thanks to the business studies, I now understand the customers and corporate challenges better and I know how to be of better use to the customers”, says our Alumni Ambassador Markus Helaniemi. “Besides having the business expertise, common knowledge and wide understanding on the world and societal aspects should be emphasized.”

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Markus Helaniemi

Alumni Ambassador Juha Aarvala: I encourage you to network with people, go to an exchange period and enjoy your studies!

Our Alumni Ambassador Juha Aarvala has been working in the field of medicine for over 20 years. He shared his career story with us and gave some advice for the current students: “Your activity during the studies counts a lot, in addition to the networks and being resilient. The true value of networks is something you should never underestimate! Thus, visit different events, meet new people and learn new things through them.”

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Juha Aarvala

Matilde Pelkonen, MSc (Econ.) and future Educational Psychologist

‘I want to keep learning and looking for purpose in what I do.'

My story Matilde Pelkonen

Alumnus Niklas Karvonen: Working abroad is about the balance between my own doing, my values and different working methods in a specific country

Several different experiences and occasions from Aalto University have affected the employment of the School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen, who worked as a Business Design Manager at 16Lab in Tokyo in 2018-2019.

Currently Karvonen is working at a Tokyo-based coding bootcamp Code Chrysalis as a Marketing and Community Lead (2020).

School of Business alumnus Niklas Karvonen

Alumni Ambassador Daniel Tuori: I encourage everyone to think already during the studies what is it that you want to do later on in your career

The School of Business alumnus Daniel Tuori encourages students to use all the opportunities that the School offers to meet the alumni and company representatives during the studies.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Daniel Tuori

Alumni Ambassador Katariina Helaniemi: The School of Business degree gives you the possibility to go everywhere, as long as you are ambitious and daring enough

“You should definitely take the kind of courses that really interest you, since that is what motivates you the most”, says the School of Business alumna Katariina Helaniemi.

Kauppakorkeakoulun Alumni Ambassador Katariina Helaniemi

Alumni Ambassador Mikko Kosonen: Knowing people widely from different sectors benefits you in the future

President of Sitra and School of Business alumnus Mikko Kosonen challenges students to plan their studies well. ”Tackling different challenges demands cooperation between the public and private sector, and it is no more enough to know only your own field well”, advises Kosonen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Mikko Kosonen

Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen: Consider your study time to be more than just acquiring knowledge from books and lectures

Our Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen reminds that all kind of work experience, especially the summer job experience during the studies, has an effect on the career in the future. "Being active is one of the key factors", says Hiltunen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen

Alumni Ambassador Pirjo Väliaho: When working at international companies, I saw how valuable the alumni network is

”For a fresh graduate, getting a first permanent job at an advertising agency was a dream come true”, reminisces our alumna Pirjo Väliaho.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Pirjo Väliaho

Alumni Ambassador Xiang Ye: Learning will continue also after the graduation

Xiang Ye encourages students to create networks and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Xiang Ye

Alumni Ambassador Sirpa Widomski: The studies in the School of Business have strengthened my abilities and self-confidence

Aalto University School of Business alumna Sirpa Widomski appreciates the broad expertise and networking opportunities granted for the students in the Aalto University.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Sirpa Widomski

Finance

Alumna Riikka Davidkin: Impact is at the heart of my work – We do nothing if it cannot have a positive impact in society in the first place

Our alumna Riikka Davidkin dreamed of an international career already as a child. Now, as head of a team investing in impact funds at Social Finance in New York, she feels that her work has great significance. In her mind, it is the financial sector that is best positioned to have an impact on solving the big problems of our time.

Shcool of Business alumna Riikka Davidkin

Alumnus Mikko Jääskeläinen: Studying at the School of Business has opened many professional doors

Our alumnus Mikko Jääskeläinen, who majored in Creative Sustainability and also studied finance, ended up working in management consulting after graduation. While in that position, he became fascinated by transport and real estate infrastructure projects, which led him to a job involving urban economy and land use general planning for the City of Helsinki, and from there, a position at the Ministry of Transport and Communications. The best parts of his job are the interesting tasks and his knowledgeable colleagues.

Mikko Jääskeläinen

Alumnus Atte Heikkilä: Acting as a mentor was a great experience for me

School of Business alumnus Atte Heikkilä, who pursues an international career as a project manager in Sweden, participated in the Aalto mentoring program for the first time as a mentor last year. He recommends the program both to students and alumni: ‘Join the program with an open mind and challenge your own and the mentor's possible presumptions.’

Atte Heikkilä

School of Business Donor Stories: Roope Rekola

‘I feel that I have received a lot from the School for life, and without Kauppis, I certainly would not be in that place in life where I am now.’

Roope Rekola

Alumna Hanna Hovi: Meaningfulness in working life is extremely important

'For me, meaningfulness comes from the fact, that I feel that I am doing good things that change the world for the better in small steps, but also from the various encounters and atmosphere I create in my workplace every day,' says our finance alumna Hanna Hovi, who currently works as the Director of Mental Health Services at Mehiläinen.

Hanna Hovi

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member's story: Jaakko Eteläaho

The School of Business Alumni Advisory Board member Jaakko Eteläaho has done a long career as an investment banker among mergers & acquisitions and says that the Finance studies have been extremely useful in his career. In addition to Alumni Advisory Board, Eteläaho has been part of Aalto Alumni Network Board and is also one of the founders of Aalto Finance Alumni association. “I encourage all alumni to be active alumni, as it is a lot of fun and widens one’s perspectives.”

Aalto-yliopiston alumniverkoston johtoryhmän jäsen Jaakko Eteläaho. Kuva: Mikko Raskinen

Alumnus Arno Paula: Don’t wait for the next golden business idea, but start solving the problems around you

School of Business alumnus Arno Paula started his own company together with two friends. Their company Ambronite tries to help people achieve permanent change of lifestyle by developing drinkable meal replacement.

School of Business alumnus Arno Paula

Alumni Ambassador Maarit Vilen: The studies have created a good theory base for working life

“As an alumna, I have the possibility to stay connected and up-to-date on the latest developments in the field of business studies and future prospects”, says our Alumni Ambassador Maarit Vilen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Maarit Vilen

Alumni Ambassador Kari Janhunen: I was encouraged to go and work abroad because of internships spent abroad

Internships abroad spurred our alumnus Kari Janhunen to seek work abroad. He has spent 20 years of his work career abroad in different positions within international finance.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Kari Janhunen

Economics

Alum Maija Keskinen: I enjoy learning new things and trying out different roles

Our alum, Maija Keskinen, knew from the start that she wanted to study economics. "Meaningful work to me means being able to serve society and do my part to ensure that decisions made in public administration are based on the highest quality information possible," Keskinen explains.

Picture of Maija Keskinen

Former economics student Soila Höijer ended up in IT and enjoyed her work

‘I want to encourage girls to partake in the diverse IT sector’

Lahjoittajien seinäteos /  Donors Wall at Aalto BIZ. Photo: Mikko Raskinen

Alumna Minna Kuusisto: The most beneficial aspects of my studies were the continuous challenging of oneself and learning to learn

Our Economics alumna Minna Kuusisto, who works as an Economist at Finnfund, has gained experience from banking, sustainable business consulting and development financing in her career, among other things. “My advice is: be curious and network with those people whose career paths you find interesting, already during your study time. Almost everybody will be delighted by a coffee or lunch invitation”.

School of Business alumna Minna Kuusisto

Alumna Göksu Sarigöl: My internship prepared me for the next chapter of my professional life

Our alumna Göksu Sarigöl did an internship during her studies through the School of Business Internship Programme for foreign students. ‘I was lucky that the School of Business Career Services helped me in this part of my career.’

School of Business alumna Göksu Sarigöl

Alumni Ambassador Timo Löyttyniemi: More important than getting good grades is to be eager to learn a wide range of things

Timo Löyttyniemi, who worked as the Vice Chair of the Single Resolution Board in Brussels from 2015 to 2019, underlines the ability to change in today’s working life. “’Agility’ is a good term to describe the true way of working amidst all the changes”, says Löyttyniemi.

Currently, Löyttyniemi is the CEO of The State Pension Fund of Finland (2020).

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Timo Löyttyniemi

Alumni Ambassador Kari Janhunen: I was encouraged to go and work abroad because of internships spent abroad

Internships abroad spurred our alumnus Kari Janhunen to seek work abroad. He has spent 20 years of his work career abroad in different positions within international finance.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Kari Janhunen

Alumni Ambassador Petteri Vartiainen: It is important to acknowledge your personal set of values and be ready to hold on to them

“Interaction always plays a key role at work, regardless of the task”, says the School of Business alumnus Petteri Vartiainen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Petteri Vartiainen

Alumni Ambassador Sirkka Hämäläinen: Each job has its effect on one’s career path

The former Bank of Finland Head Sirkka Hämäläinen emphasizes the importance of extensive, high quality common knowledge in working life success.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Sirkka Hämäläinen

Elina Björklund

School of Business Alumna of the Year 2018 Elina Björklund is the CEO of Reima. She has graduated from the Helsinki School of Economics. Before Reima she worked at Iittala.

Elina Björklund

Information and Service Management

Alumna Miia Martikainen: my heart beats for solving the challenges of our society's well-being

‘I became interested in business studies because I felt that through them, I could be part of making an impact that matters’ says Miia Martikainen, our alumna. Martikainen has been working as a consultant for almost a decade now, and she is currently in her dream job solving the future challenges of the public social and health care system.

Miia Martikainen_alumni

Alumna Aigerim Nukenova: Student Business Project was a valuable and beneficial experience for me

Our alumna Aigerim Nukenova studied in the Information and Service Management master’s programme, and now works as a Data Analyst at Fixably. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and sauna, and jogging in nature.

School of Business alumna Aigerim Nukekova in the forest.

Alumna Annastina Saari: I want to be involved in solving the climate crisis

‘I had always dreamed of a career dealing with environmental questions’, says our alumna Annastina Saari, who studied international business as well as information and service management, and who now works as a consultant for D-mat, a company that is specialized in sustainable lifestyles.

School of Business alumna Annastina Saari

Alumnus Kron Rexhepi: The most important work life skills are curiosity and the willingness to learn new things

School of Business alumnus Kron Rexhepi followed his interests to pursue a career in data analytics. The networks formed at the School and the programming courses he took helped him to find an inspiring job where he could utilize his previous experience in both consulting and data.

Kron Rexhepi

Alumni Ambassador Le Thuy: Data related skills are increasingly relevant in business

‘An internship is an effective way to find the career that makes you tick’, recommends Le Thuy, Information and Service Management alumna, who works as a strategy consultant at August Associates. As of this fall, she is also a School of Business Alumni Ambassador.

Le Thuy

Alumnus Pauli Liikala: In mentoring, it is important to listen to the student and ask questions

‘I am grateful to the School of Business, its teachers and my fellow students – studying there gave me excellent skills and knowledge for my career and for my retirement years.’ says Pauli Liikala, our alumnus, who made a long career in information systems, management and their development, and who has also acted as a mentor to numerous students over the years.

Pauli Liikala, Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni

Alumnus Tung Hoang: Data analytics is where you can apply theories and technical knowledge in solving real business problems

Our alumnus Tung Hoang did not know much about data analytics or programming before starting the Master’s studies at the School of Business, but he then immersed himself in the field through the Business Analytics specialization area. At his current job, he now uses many of the concepts and skills he learnt during the studies, and encourages students to do their personal projects, such as programming, besides the core studies.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni_Tung Hoang

Alumnus Jesse Rajala: ISM has opened up doors I didn't even realise existed

A fresh graduate of Information and Service Management, Jesse Rajala talks about his studies and gives a few tips to students coming from a University of Applied science background.

Jesse Rajala sitting in a big armchair in the Business School lobby, looking up.

Alumna Li Xu: My exchange period was the milestone linked to my current career point

Li Xu applied for the Master’s Programme in Information and Service Management at Aalto University School of Business partly due to her job requirement. The studies supported her career, and later also helped her proceed towards her dream job at Valio in China.

School of Business alumni Li Xu on her motorbike in China.

Alumni Ambassador Elvira Vainio: Your major subject does not have to define your future path

”It is never too late to study more and try new things – I am a good example of that! I studied logistics, but in the working life I realized that I’m more interested in both business and human resources, and so I ended up doing what I do today”, says our alumna Elvira Vainio, who worked as a HRD manager at Veikkaus from 2017 to 2019.

Currently, Vainio is working as a coach at FAB Monday, a company founded by her (2020).

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Elvira Vainio

Alumni Ambassador Eero Nummela: You can develop your professional skills and find new job opportunities through networks

“Use the good opportunities to grow your networks during the studies”, advises our alumnus Eero Nummela. “Having a comprehensive and versatile network is an asset for an employee, but also the employers appreciate it.”

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Eero Nummela

Alumni Ambassador Olli Copeland: Being active during student life in different types of organizations can make you stand out in a positive way

The School of Business Alumni Ambassadors' youngest member, Olli Copeland urges everyone to make new connections and broaden one's network. "Especially being a part of student organizations is an excellent way to network", says Copeland.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Olli Copeland

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management

Alumnus Atte Hujanen: I have been an entrepreneur all my life

‘To succeed and enjoy being an entrepreneur, you need to enjoy unpredictable situations, reacting to them, and overcoming them. If the image of such an everyday life gets a smile on your face day after day, then entrepreneurship may be for you,’ thinks Atte Hujanen, the founder of the karaoke streaming service Singa.

Atte Hujanen.

School of Business donor stories: Lisa Schröder

‘May Aalto University remain this forward thinking, empowering and ever evolving institution that I got the privilege to attend!’

Lisa Schröder

Jamila Awadh: Multiculturalism helps to establish business contacts

Business studies at Aalto complemented Jamila Awadh’s previous studies and experience. Studies led to her current position as Business and Marketing Director at Polar Glucan.

kuva Jamila Awadh

Business Law

Alumna Mira Hänninen: It is inspiring to see that my own work can have a positive impact on society

Our alumna Mira Hänninen, who currently works at Neste, applied to the School of Business for a master’s degree in Business Law because she wanted a more practical business perspective in her law studies. "The most rewarding thing about the studies was that we didn't just study the content of regulation, but also considered what kind of practical impact it has on companies' business and decision-making."

Mira Hänninen

Alumna Saara Virrankari-Kulju: In the future, taxation is going to be more and more digital and real-time

Our alumna Saara Virrankari-Kulju chose Business Law as her major, as it seemed to be a good way to combine law and business studies. Now as a Tax Manager she gets to utilize her knowledge in business, accounting and tax legislation in an international company.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Saara Virrankari-Kulju

Alumna Essi Raitala: Business studies create an excellent basis for a diplomatic career

Diverse career opportunities and varying tasks got our alumna Essi Raitala interested in a career in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Currently, she is on her first posting at the Embassy of Finland in Nairobi.

School of Business alumna Essi Raitala

Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen: Consider your study time to be more than just acquiring knowledge from books and lectures

Our Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen reminds that all kind of work experience, especially the summer job experience during the studies, has an effect on the career in the future. "Being active is one of the key factors", says Hiltunen.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Arto Hiltunen

International Design Business Management

Alumna Erika Ahlberg: If you never make mistakes, you haven't been brave enough

Our alumna Erika Ahlberg wanted to combine her previous studies in retail and design in her master's degree, and the International Design Business Management program was a great fit for this. In her career in fashion, sales, marketing, and brands, she has courageously taken on challenges - for example, jumping into the management of an organization of 100 people without any previous managerial experience.

Erika Ahlberg

Alumna Emilia Perttu: 'I had the courage to follow my dreams and put in the effort for what interested me'

Our alumna, Emilia Perttu has always known she wanted to work in the field of technology and innovation. Through her studies she started to search for a career path that suited her. Eventually, her efforts paid off, and today she works as a lead UI/UX designer at the hybrid agency Nitro.

Kuva Emilia Pertusta

International Business (Mikkeli campus)

Alumnus Daniel Cohen: I knew the Bachelor’s Programme in International Business at Aalto Mikkeli is a top programme, so I wanted to aim high and apply there

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumnus Daniel Cohen encourages current students to be confident and patient in finding their own paths: “If you feel like you don’t know what to do, don’t worry. That doesn’t mean you cannot get ahead in your career and build up work skills. Anything you do for work will help you get in the right direction.”

BScBA Program alumnus Daniel Cohen in the front of New York city scenery

Alumna Julia Romanyuk: Studying at Mikkeli Campus gives the graduates an important advantage

During her career in rhythmic gymnastics, Julia Romanyuk, a multiple Finnish champion and the School of Business Mikkeli campus alumna learnt many skills that have been valuable outside athletics as well: ‘I have applied these practical skills, such as time management and having a high drive, in my studies and personal life.’

BScBA alumna Julia Romanyuk sitting in front of mountain landscape

Alumna Annastina Saari: I want to be involved in solving the climate crisis

‘I had always dreamed of a career dealing with environmental questions’, says our alumna Annastina Saari, who studied international business as well as information and service management, and who now works as a consultant for D-mat, a company that is specialized in sustainable lifestyles.

School of Business alumna Annastina Saari

Alumna Satu Strömbeg: The traditional career ladder is not the only and right way to go

The career path of Satu Srömberg, School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumna, has not followed the obvious route of an Economics student: ’I want to encourage you to find your own path. Find your own strengths and follow your passion. Learning is a lifelong path and you only know where it takes, when you take one step after another.”

Mikkeli Campus alumna Satu Strömberg

Alumna Roosa Mannonen: My career path has been a very colourful mix

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumna Roosa Mannonen sees the value of working with course projects not only when in work life, but also when applying for a job: 'The confidence you’ll gain from those numerous presentations done during studies might just make you land the job you want.'

BScBA Program Alumna Roosa Mannonen

Alumnus Patrick Lees: Any working experience is valuable both on a social and career perspective

The career of Patrick Lees, School of Business Mikkeli Campus alumnus, took an unexpected turn early on and led him to work with renewable energies. “Small details and timing can have a significant impact on your career, and I urge not to be too fixed with your career plan.”

BScBA Program alumnus Patrick Lees on a ski trip to Koli

School of Business alumni story: Married couple Mia Hoang and Juhana Polso

The Bachelor’s Program in International Business is not only an exceptional business education opportunity, some even find their significant other there. Our alumni Mia Hoang and Juhana Polso started a life together while studying in the program, and after Mikkeli they both combined studies of business and technology in the University of Nebraska.

BScBA Program alumni Mia Hoang and Juhana Polso

Alumna Tuuli Hakkarainen: To know your strengths, you need to get to know yourself first

Unlike most of her fellow students, School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumna Tuuli Hakkarainen chose an academic career path. She defended her dissertation in December 2020, and in her doctoral thesis she examined expertise sharing within multinational corporations.

The BScBA Program alumna Tuuli Hakkarainen

Alumna Elina Lamponen: Internships and other jobs during your studies are a good way to try out different things

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumna Elina Lamponen gives current students a valuable piece of advice regarding working during studies: “Try to get a job at a smaller company. The company might not seem as prestigious as bigger companies, but the duties are usually more varied, and you get to see and do more and get responsibility early on.”

BScBA Program alumni Elina Lamponen

Alumnus Pekka Lehtinen: Network as much as you can during the studies and after, widen your perspective

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumnus Pekka Lehtinen has had a long career and he continues to value the skills he gathered during studies: ”Teamwork and the skill to think outside the box have brought the biggest insights into my career.”

BScBA Program alumnus Pekka Lehtinen

Alumna Mari Sederholm: In life and business it is all about teamwork and continuous learning

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumna Mari Sederholm has had a long career in the pharmaceutical industry. Business studies helped her to pursue her dream career: “You will learn general skills that are useful in life no matter what you will do in your career and in which ever field.”

BScBA Alumna Mari Sederholm

Alumnus Niko Marjomaa: International Business Program prepares you for the real business world

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumnus Niko Marjomaa found a way to combine the fields of business and security: “Through my experiences I saw the opportunities to think about security little bit differently than the majority in the industry.”

BScBA alumnus Niko Marjomaa

Alumnus Tung Hoang: Data analytics is where you can apply theories and technical knowledge in solving real business problems

Our alumnus Tung Hoang did not know much about data analytics or programming before starting the Master’s studies at the School of Business, but he then immersed himself in the field through the Business Analytics specialization area. At his current job, he now uses many of the concepts and skills he learnt during the studies, and encourages students to do their personal projects, such as programming, besides the core studies.

Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni_Tung Hoang

Alumnus Mikael Lauharanta: Frequent presentations help Mikkeli students stand out from the crowd

School of Business, Mikkeli Campus alumnus Mikael Lauharanta appreciates the nature of studies in the BScBA Program: "It’s a fast paced program that prepares you well for the working life and all the challenges it might throw at you."

BScBA Program alumnus Mikael Lauharanta

Alumni Ambassador Elisa Liekkilä: My major helped me focus on the things that really interested me

Our alumna Elisa Liekkilä takes part in the School’s ARENA Career Fair on November 14 as the company representative of Tieto. “At the ARENA Career Fair, one can search for inspiration, knowledge, support and advice by getting to know different companies”, says Liekkilä.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Elisa Liekkilä

Alumni Ambassador Eero Nummela: You can develop your professional skills and find new job opportunities through networks

“Use the good opportunities to grow your networks during the studies”, advises our alumnus Eero Nummela. “Having a comprehensive and versatile network is an asset for an employee, but also the employers appreciate it.”

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Eero Nummela

Alumni Ambassador Olli Copeland: Being active during student life in different types of organizations can make you stand out in a positive way

The School of Business Alumni Ambassadors' youngest member, Olli Copeland urges everyone to make new connections and broaden one's network. "Especially being a part of student organizations is an excellent way to network", says Copeland.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Olli Copeland

Alumni Ambassador Juho Tuovinen: Studies at the School of Business gave me confidence to reach for my own goals

Juho Tuovinen has already worked in many international positions. He advises students to think carefully about their own interests when applying for the jobs in their industry.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Juho Tuovinen

Aalto University Executive Education (MBA)

Alumni Ambassador Sami Pauni: Executive MBA degree brought me new job opportunities

”I have always grasped the opportunities when facing them – I have not always known where they will take me or whether it is 'the one', but I have gone forward”, says the School of Business Alumni Ambassador Sami Pauni.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Sami Pauni

Alumni Ambassador Annika Jyllilä-Vertigans: Developing the skill to learn new things is the most important aspect in working life

Our alumna Annika Jyllilä-Vertigans completed EMBA degree in Aalto University Executive Education as she felt the need to deepen her knowledge in the ever-changing working life. At the same time, her professional and personal networks have broadened.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Annika Jyllilä-Vertigans

Alumni Ambassador Katja Kääriä: In the future, we will need even the most surprising study combinations

Having studied throughout her working life, our alumna Katja Kääriä encourages everyone to acquire interdisciplinary knowledge for the future. "It is important to look at things from different perspectives. New things give energy and development ideas for work", Kääriä emphasizes.

School of Business Alumni Ambassador Katja Kääriä

Alumni Advisory Board members

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board 2022.

School of Business Alumni Advisory Board

Alumni Advisory Board steering group discusses policies related to the School's alumni activities, external relations, and fundraising. The steering group consists of 10–14 alumni representatives from the various study programmes of the School of Business and from different fields of business. The steering group meets approximately four times per year.

School of Business

Other stories

Lahjoittaja-alumni Emma Aerin perhe, Kauppakorkeakoulu

The shared School of Business and KY history feels very important, says CEO Emma Aer

The Aer family has been a part of the student population of the School of Business for four generations

News
Kovasen vesipullot auton istuinten käsinojine päässä

‘Zero two hundred, six zero, six zero.’ Kovanen speaking.

CEO Eeva Kovanen has led a family business from personal transportation services into an investment company

News
Kauppakorkeakoulun alumni Martti Johansson

‘Every day I felt happy to go to work. It never felt unpleasant.’

Martti Johansson, 80, is one of the happy members of Seiskan Veljet, the Brothers on the 7th floor

News
Kaksi hiihtäjää Pyhä-Luostolla. Kuva: Pyhä-Luoston Matkailuyhdistys
News
For School of Business alumni
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