Jarel Mäkihonko graduated from HELBUS and the University of Northampton's Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business and Management in 2023 and is currently studying in Luxembourg on a Master's programme in Business Administration and Finance. What made Jarel apply to HELBUS?
I had always wanted to study business with a focus on finance or later become an entrepreneur. When I was choosing where to study, I was attracted from the start by the quick graduation and English as the language of instruction. I felt that in many Finnish universities things are a bit out of step when you think about building an international career.
What was your undergraduate experience like?
Studying abroad now, I found that my own skills and ‘starting level’ for a Master's degree was very high compared to others. I felt that HELBUS went beyond normal undergraduate studies, the teaching was interactive and pushed me more to argue, debate and challenge my own ideas. In Central Europe, the traditional lecture-based teaching style is still more prevalent.
HELBUS attracts a wide range of people and many of those who want to go out into the world to pursue a career. The studies laid the foundations for lifelong friendships and I have even attended the wedding of a fellow student. I will continue to have contacts and friends from around the world.
Who would you recommend studying at HELBUS to?
To young people interested in the business world who want to pursue a career either in Finland or abroad - either way, they are well prepared for further studies. And a quick start to your studies is an advantage: studying for half a year for entrance exams to other universities has quite a high opportunity cost. alternative cost.
