Hi, first year student!
Welcome to study the most fascinating field in the world! You’ve found your way to the website of Symbioosi ry, the student association for biology students at the University of Helsinki. What follows is a lengthy but juicy information package, so make sure to read on.
What is Symbioosi? What is a student association? Symbioosi is all about parties, trips, studying, advocacy, and even tackling caffeine shortages – all together with like-minded students. Although Symbioosi is the student association for biology students, anyone studying biological sciences at the University of Helsinki can join in on the exciting activities.
Before this welcome message gets too long, here’s an essential question: Have you opened Alkio yet? Every freshman’s essential info package, created by Symbioosi and Helix ry, is free for everyone to read. It’s definitely worth checking out, as it answers most of the pressing questions a freshman might have!
Already read Alkio, and now you’re excited to get involved? The easiest way to join in with Symbioosi is by attending the numerous events that the upcoming academic year will bring. Apart from hosting great parties, Symbioosi also organizes bird and nature trips, game and movie nights, and larger excursions. Every year, for example, we go on trips to the biological stations of the University of Helsinki to relax and unwind! If you’re interested in getting involved with the student association, there will be plenty of opportunities for freshmen at the fall meeting. Feel free to come by with a low threshold, even just to enjoy some delicious snacks.
In addition to events, Symbioosi’s physical home is in the basement of Biokeskus 3, where members can enjoy free coffee and tea, and the company is always of high quality! You can also borrow things like identification guides and optics from the clubroom. Senior students are happy to offer advice, whether it’s about where to find what you need or just general questions.
How to get the best information about all of this? The official communication channel, the Symbioosi ry email list, shares information about Symbioosi’s events and other topics related to studies and work that may interest members, so it’s definitely worth joining. Learn more under “Membership & Activities” -> “Mailing Lists.”
In addition, Symbioosi has a highly active Facebook group, where event updates and other important information are shared even more smoothly than by email, albeit in a more informal way. You can also follow Symbioosi’s activities on its Instagram account. Additionally, there’s a calendar of events and a Telegram group available. Learn more about Symbioosi’s social media channels.
If this has sparked your interest, don’t wait — join us now! It’s free and quick! You can sign up using your university credentials here.
See you in Viikki!