Graduating student Leila Suomi: "I am proud of my graduation"

So far this year, almost 1,900 bachelor's degree students and over 400 master's degree students have graduated from Laurea. This week, we celebrated all of our graduates at Laurea with our traditional graduation ceremony, which was held at the Leppävaara campus on December 18 and 19.

One of the students celebrating her graduation is Leila Suomi, who graduated as a Bachelor of Social Services from the Degree Programme in Correctional Services.

"Graduating feels great, and I am proud of the work I have done to earn my degree," Suomi describes her feelings at the graduation ceremony.

Blended learning enabled faster graduation

Leila Suomi began her studies in Correctional Services at the Tikkurila campus in January 2024, completing her degree in less than two years. On top of that, Leila studied while working:

"Blended learning enabled me to study at a fast pace, as I was able to study in my free time and during holidays," says Leila, who works as a prison guard.

"Looking back, time has softened my memories, and what stands out most is the feeling of relief. However, I've had to work hard and set aside days for studying.

The dream of working in a prison came true

Leila Suomi already had working in a prison in mind when she was considering her first degree. At that time, however, she ended up studying to become a practical nurse and worked in elderly care, mental health, crisis and substance abuse work, as well as early childhood education.

A few years ago, however, she completed prison guard training at the Training Institute for Prison and Probation Service (RSKK), and realized her old dream. At the same time, she caught the study bug and went straight on to study at a university of applied sciences:

"If someone had told me a few years ago that I would be here now, I wouldn't have believed them. I've surprised even myself with my studies," Leila laughs.

Attitude is key: "This is how I make things work"

Before starting her studies at the university of applied sciences, Leila was nervous about the workload and scope of the assignments, for example. At the beginning of her studies, there was also a lot of new information to take in.

"Fortunately, Laurea has provided support and assistance. We also have a great study group, and everyone has been able to help each other as we do a lot of our studies together."

During her studies, Leila Suomi has also noticed a change in her attitude, which she hopes will encourage others to pursue their dreams of studying:

"The first thing is not to think, 'I can't do this.' If something needs to be done, it's better to think about how to make it work. Or I organize things so that they will work out."

You can watch the graduation ceremony on Laurea's YouTube channel