As the new Editor-in-Chief for BTSB, it’s part of my duties to maintain schedules and encourage our writers to meet deadlines, which is why it’s a little embarrassing to admit that I’ve been putting this off for quite a while. Because it’s my first issue, I wanted to make my first Editor’s Note something really special, so I’ve been hesitant to put anything down on paper before I had it really sorted out in my head. Yet, here I sit, in front of my computer, writing this out however it may come. There’s a lesson there that you can’t wait for something special to happen, you have to make it happen yourself. Many of you are freshmen, slowly settling into this new home of yours known as the University of Helsinki. Perhaps unbeknownst to you (or perhaps not), this is the start of a chapter in your life that will be unlike anything that came before it, or anything that comes after it. You’ll find possibilities here beyond your wildest dreams, and crazy experiences and people that will stick with you for the rest of your life. Uni-life is something special. And you know what? You made it happen.
Rather than waiting around for opportunities to fall in your lap, all of you have worked hard to get to where you are today. Never forget that, but also never forget that, in some respects, you are privileged to be here. There are classes and clubs, activities and events, teachers and professors, that are all there for you. Make the most of your time here by exploring the different facets of university life, and if you’re not even sure where to start, don’t worry, we’re here for you. This issue is dedicated to you, the freshmen, as a guide to welcome you to the university and to remind you to not waste this unique chapter in your life.
Of course, I’ve been saying all along that you should make things happen, rather than wait around for something to happen. The one side-note to remember here is that sometimes what you actually say can be incredibly important, as we’ve already witnessed this year with unfortunately themed parties that would have made light of the misfortunes of thousands upon thousands of refugees. I hate to use a cliché, but it’s so true: with great power comes great responsibility. I think it was Gandalf who said that? Or maybe Harry Potter…
Anyway, to sum it up, I want you to take notice of all of the different opportunities you now have before you as a student at Helsinki University. Remember that your voice is powerful, so use it responsibly. At the same time, don’t hesitate to use it either. If you feel like being a board member, attend a meeting. If you feel like taking a course on something completely random, make time for it. If you feel like taking part in something creative, you’re more than welcome to join us. The amount of “something special” moments now open to you are beyond comprehension. Seize them and who knows? Maybe someday you might find yourself doing something you never even dreamed of, like being the Editor-in-Chief for a student webzine.
- Jesper Simola Editor-in-Chief
In this issue, we’ve got a bunch of stuff for you awesome new freshmen! First of all, us editors have combined forces to create a Freshman Survival Guide for all of you. We’ve also got Laura and Inka telling us about choices in campus life as well as libraries respectively. As well as this freshmen friendly content, we’re continuing to bring the goods on anything and everything, with Eve talking about her experiences at this year’s Flow Festival, Ari on the surprisingly good Breaking Bad spin-off, Kaisa on clapping even if the performers aren't present, and Elizabeth on tattoos. If you’re looking for creative writing, we’ve got that too from both Ile and Milla! Current events regarding university occupations are covered too by Esko, who has also managed to put together a fantastic guide for any of you possibly interested in participating in BTSB at some point! This is just the start of the year, with more plans to come!