Ville Salo

Ville Salo

I have worked as a CFO in non-profit organisations for years, and even though I have been successful in my career, I believe it’s important to reflect on your own skills and make a conscious effort to update them. That’s what led me to apply for the MBA programme at HELBUS. Now I can honestly say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my professional life.

Behind my decision to pursue an MBA was a strong desire to maintain my professional competence and stay relevant in the working world. I’ve always believed that competence is a responsibility, and through the MBA, I gained confidence that I can handle my responsibilities in the best possible way.

The only thing I regret is waiting this long. If you're even slightly considering whether you should start your studies – the answer is yes.

The studies gave me exactly what I had hoped for and so much more. It was amazing to see how quickly I got back into studying, even though it had been a while since my previous academic experience. I especially appreciated that the teaching was interactive and that modern pedagogical methods were used, no more just cramming for exams. One of the most memorable aspects of the studies was the diversity of people: the student group consisted of professionals from very different backgrounds. It was refreshing to discuss the same problem with people who had completely different perspectives and experiences. The networks we built are still alive and we continue to meet up regularly.

Perhaps the biggest benefit from the whole experience has been gaining new confidence and perspective in my own work. That feeling of knowing your skills are up to date and relevant, is invaluable, and it also reflects in how I approach my current job tasks. I also gained new insights into stakeholder management, strategic planning, and working in international contexts — elements that are increasingly important in my role today.

This wasn’t just a degree, it was a journey that gave me confidence, new perspectives, and strengthened my professional identity. Starting an MBA won’t get any easier later, but the benefits will show up sooner the earlier you begin. And if anyone’s wondering whether an MBA is worth it: it absolutely is.

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MBA student

Ville Salo

I have worked as a CFO in non-profit organisations for years, and even though I have been successful in my career, I believe it’s important to reflect on your own skills and make a conscious effort to update them. That’s what led me to apply for the MBA programme at HELBUS. Now I can honestly say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my professional life.

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BA student

Jarel Mäkihonko

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?

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MBA student

Antti Kauppi

MBA-opintojen vaikutukset ovat näkyneet erityisesti ajattelutavassa. Olen saanut rohkeutta osallistua keskusteluihin oman asiantuntijaroolini ulkopuolelta, tarkastella asioita strategisemmin ja tuoda esiin näkemyksiä, jotka tukevat liiketoiminnan kokonaisuutta.

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