Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2016-2017
Table of Content
WELCOME TO HME UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES ........................................................................... 1
HAMKO THE STUDENT UNION OF HME UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES ......................................... 2
1. FINLAND .................................................................................................................................................... 3
Finland in Figures ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Climate...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Currency and Banks .................................................................................................................................. 4
Electricity .................................................................................................................................................. 4
Transportation .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Shopping and Cost of Living ..................................................................................................................... 6
2. FINNS, FINNISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE .............................................................................................. 9
Finnish Language .................................................................................................................................... 11
Culture Shock.......................................................................................................................................... 11
3. IMMIGRATION ISSUES ............................................................................................................................ 12
Visa and Residence Permit ..................................................................................................................... 12
Registering for the Finnish ID Number ................................................................................................... 12
Insurance ................................................................................................................................................ 12
4. CHECKLIST BEFORE DEPARTURE TO FINLAND ....................................................................................... 13
5. HME UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES (HAMK) ................................................................................ 14
HAMK Glossary ...................................................................................................................................... 15
6. STUDYING AT HAMK ............................................................................................................................... 16
Orientation for New Students ................................................................................................................ 17
Peer Tutor ............................................................................................................................................... 17
Student Card ........................................................................................................................................... 18
Survival Kits for International Students .................................................................................................. 18
Daily Computing Matters ....................................................................................................................... 19
Meals ...................................................................................................................................................... 20
Student Wellbeing .................................................................................................................................. 20
General Rules and Guidelines................................................................................................................. 21
7. YOUR CAMPUS........................................................................................................................................ 22
EVO ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
FORSSA ................................................................................................................................................... 26
HMEENLINNA (Visamki & Lahdensivu) ............................................................................................... 31
LEPAA...................................................................................................................................................... 41
MUSTIALA ............................................................................................................................................... 44
RIIHIMKI................................................................................................................................................ 48
VALKEAKOSKI .......................................................................................................................................... 53
Welcome to HAMK
Hme University of Applied Sciences
International Affairs Office
Version 2016-03
Updated 25-MAY-2016
1
WELCOME TO
HME UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES
Dear students and colleagues, get to know new people from different
First of all, I would like to thank you for cultures. Excellent personal international
choosing Hme University of Applied relationships created while you study with us
Sciences (HAMK). The international will surely benefit you in your future career.
perspective is a natural part of all our
activities and we hope that youll find our This is the beginning of an adventure that will
environment highly international with a enrich all aspects of your life and provide you
tolerant atmosphere. Alongside our Finnish with new multicultural experiences. Enjoy!
students we have degree and exchange
students from around 70 different countries. Sincerely,
The international partner network has a Marja Rikknen
significant role both in education and Head of International Affairs
research.
1
2
2
3
1. FINLAND
www.studyinfinland.fi/living_in_finland
www.lonelyplanet.com/finland
www.visitfinland.com
You may be wondering what Finland is like. Who are these Finns and what are they like? How do they live,
and what are they interested in? Covered with forests and fields, and pure and beautiful lakes and rivers
that are completely frozen during winter time and glitter in the sun in the summer. The home of Santa Claus,
Moomins, Jean Sibelius and Kimi Rikknen, a place where you can see the midnight sun and feel the cold
winter on your cheeks. These are the things perhaps most commonly said about Finland. And yes, Finland is
all that, but it is also so much more. We recommend you to be inquisitive and open-minded to go and
experience it all. This way you will learn the most about us Finns and about this northern country and
maybe about yourself also.
3
4
Finland in Figures
Climate
During the coldest winter months (January and Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The
February), the lowest temperatures can drop to word for bank in Finnish is pankki.
even -25 -30 degrees Celsius, but are generally
around -10 degrees Celsius. During the warmest Here are some Finnish banks:
summer months (June, July, August), the - Aktia
temperatures can rise to +25 +30 degrees - Nordea
Celsius, but are generally around +15 +20 - Osuuspankki
degrees Celsius. - POP pankki
- Sstpankki
Currency and Banks
The currency in Finland is euro () like in most of Electricity
the Western European countries. The euro is The voltage in electric power outlets in Finland is
divided into 100 cents. Please note that the 1 230V. The plug type is continental European (CEE
and 2 cent coins are not in use in Finland. The 7/16, CEE 7/17, CEE 7/4, CEE 7/7). If you plan to
cash sum is rounded to the closest 5 cent value. bring any electrical devices, such as mobile phone
chargers, check to make sure they are compatible
The exchange rate between the euro and other or bring an adapter. You can also buy adapters
currencies changes from day to day. You can from the major department stores in Finland.
check the current exchange rates for example
here:
http://www.nordea.fi/About+Nordea/Exchange+
rates/762614.html
4
5
Transportation
speed limit is reduced everywhere to 80 km/h.
Buses Please note, that to To drive a car in Finland you
There are different long-distance bus companies have to be at least 18 years old and you must
in Finland. Here are the most common ones: have a valid driving license. Driving licenses
https://www.matkahuolto.fi/en/ issued in another EU or EEA Member State and
http://www.expressbus.fi/timetables-and-tickets interim driving licenses issued in the Nordic
http://www.onnibus.com/en/index.htm countries entitle their holders to operate motor
vehicles in Finland in categories corresponding to
There is usually a student discount for the bus the driving rights indicated on their licenses.
ticket if you have a student union student card.
An ISIC card or other international student card is Basic rules for driving in Finland:
not approved. Seat belt compulsory for everyone.
Headlights compulsory at all times.
Trains Drunken driving and using mobile phone
State-owned Valtion Rautatiet (VR) runs all when driving are criminal offences.
Finnish trains. You can find the timetables and Unnecessary engine idling is prohibited.
prices at the VR website: Direction indicators must be used.
https://www.vr.fi/cs/vr/en/frontpage. Consideration in use of the horn.
Note that you will get a 45-55% student discount Persons residing permanently in a country that
when travelling on long-distance trains if you has signed the Geneva or Vienna Road Traffic
have a student union student card approved by Convention and who hold a national or
VR. An ISIC card or other international student international driving license or an official Finnish
card is not approved by VR. or Swedish translation of a foreign driving license
are entitled to operate motor vehicles in Finland
Driving in Finland in categories corresponding to the driving rights
The traffic in Finland is right-sided. The general indicated on their licenses.
speed limit in Finland is 50 km/h in built-up areas
and 80 km/h outside. Both limits are in force as Read more about foreign driving licenses and
long as no other speed limit is signposted. On their validity:
major highways you can drive 100 km/h in the http://www.poliisi.fi/driving_licence/
summer and 120 km/h on motorways. In the foreign_driving_licences
winter months, all vehicles must have winter
tyres preferably studded. In winter the general
Read more
about obtaining the student
card on page 18 in this guide.
5
6
It is very important to understand in advance how you will spend your budget during the academic year.
Good financial planning is a key for success, and also a good habit that you can use for the rest of your life.
It sounds easy, but budgeting for the first time can be challenging.
6
7
Currently, it is estimated that about 800/month Multiply that by 22 business days and you can
is a more sufficient figure to cover living expenses estimate that eating in the cafeteria five days a
in Finland. week is about 56 per month. Then think about
what you usually like to eat for breakfast, snacks,
A more accurate way to estimate your budget is and dinner and during weekends. It is cheaper to
to sit down and think about how and where you cook your own meals than eat out. Is it your habit
plan to spend your money. Keep in mind that to buy a cup of coffee every day?
most people underestimate their expenses.
Estimate your one-time expenses
Here are some basic budgeting ideas to consider: (security deposit for your student
Determine your fixed costs per month apartment, travel, electronics, books and
(rent, utilities and health insurance other course materials).
payment) please see the information Do you plan to buy a computer in
under Your Campus to get a better Finland? How about a mobile phone?
understanding of your fixed costs and
utilities in your study location. The word for a grocery store in Finnish is
Estimate your variable expenses (food, kauppa, but very often you can see a sign for K-
clothing, and entertainment). Market, S-Market, Citymarket, Prisma, Siwa or
In Finland, it is prohibited to keep sub- Lidl. There are very few specialty stores in
tenants without the prior agreement Finland. Big supermarkets are the best places to
with the landlord. buy everyday items that a student might need
For example: all students in Finland are entitled right at the beginning. On the next page there is
to state-subsidised hot meals at student a list of common groceries and other daily
cafeterias during the work days when cafeterias commodities with approximate prices.
are open. The price per meal is around 2.55.
7
8
If you would like to buy any electronics, here are some store names to help you get started:
Gigantti
Expert
Musta Prssi
8
9
The Flag of Finland is called Siniristilippu ("Blue Cross Flag). The cross comes from Finlands
Christian heritage, and the colours represent the two defining characteristics of our country:
the blue comes from thousands of lakes that shine blue under the free skies in summer, and
the white reminds of the ice and snow that cover the land during the winter.
You may be wondering what Finnish people are like. Well, Finns might at first seem a little bit reserved, shy
or quiet since we dont usually like to make a lot of noise about ourselves. However, most Finns are actually
quite talkative and social and especially younger people speak good English.
Finns dont do a lot of small talk, we tend to say what we mean and we really mean what we say. We also
find interrupting another speaker very rude. A good example of the lack of small talk can be seen for example
in the morning at the bus stop where there might be a lot of people going to school or work but they all
stand at the bus stop by themselves quietly.
Even though Finns might come across as distant, dont hesitate to start a conversation or ask if you need
help Finns are usually more than happy to give advice and even do small talk if needed.
9
10
For more information about Finns and Finnish culture, visit http://www.visitfinland.com
10
11
Finnish Language
Finnish English
Moi/Hei! Hello
Nkemiin! Bye
Mit kuuluu? How are you?
Hyv Good
Kiitos! Thank you
Ole hyv Youre welcome
Nhdn taas See you
Puhutko suomea? Do you speak Finnish?
Puhutko englantia? Do you speak English?
Kyll/Joo Yes
Ei No
You can attend a Finnish Language course at most HAMK campuses. Enroll also on Finnish courses at an
open university or community college (tyvenopisto).
http://venla.info/
Culture Shock
It is very common to experience difficulties in adapting to the new environment especially in the
beginning of your studies. At times you might feel homesick, frustrated, distressed or more tired than
usual. You might get even pain and other physical symptoms. Dont worry these feelings are
completely normal and are related to culture shock.
Culture shock is a sign that you are adapting to the new situation even though it might feel like a
struggle. The most important thing is to give yourself enough time to adapt to the new situation.
Talking about the feelings you are having is also important. Share your thoughts with a fellow student,
tutor, other exchange students, teacher or international contact person, you will feel better!
11
12
3. IMMIGRATION ISSUES
You should treat all issues relating to your Finnish
immigration with the appropriate seriousness.
The consequences of violating your Finnish
immigration status, which can be severe, are
avoidable if you are properly informed.
The citizens of the EU member states (as well as Registering for the Finnish ID Number
citizens of Liechtenstein and Switzerland) must
register their right to reside in Finland with the Please note that all foreign students staying in
local police in order to study in Finland for longer Finland over 3 months, need to register
than three months. themselves at the local register office (maistraatti)
or police station when they arrive in Finland to get
http://poliisi.fi/licences_and_permits_for_foreigne an official Finnish ID number. All students need to
rs/registration_of_a_right_of_residence fill in a personal data form after having received
the Finnish ID number and return it to their own
Residence Permits for non-EU citizens
international contact person. This should be done
during your first days in Finland. If you have any
A residence permit is required for students who
questions, please ask your international contact
are going to study in Finland for longer than three
person for guidance.
months (90 days). You might need a visa if your
studies last less than 90 days. You can study for 90
days without a visa or residence permit if you are a Insurance
citizen of a visa-free country. Check carefully the
Finnish Immigration Service website:
http://www.migri.fi/studying_in_finland
Please note that as an exchange
student you are not included in
HAMKs insurance policy. You need
to have your own insurance.
12
13
Make sure that you have taken care of the following before your departure:
a valid passport and a visa or temporary residence permit (in case I need one) and read about
Finland's Aliens Act (www. migri.fi);
visited HAMK general website, www.hamk.fi ;
read carefully this Welcome to HAMK guide;
made a reasonable budget for my stay;
read about culture shock and have thought about my potential feelings and reactions when
encountering different climate conditions, customs, habits and codes of conduct;
checked that my insurances (travel, health) are OK and I know what they cover;
the basic vaccinations and that they are valid during my stay;
the information concerning the entry requirements to Russia and Estonia in case I want to make a
trip to St Petersburg or Tallinn (= a passport instead of a EU certified ID-card, also check the
vaccinations and other health care issues);
contacted my bank and found out about the options available for money transfer, ATM cards and
travellers checks;
returned the student card application form to HAMKO (the Student Union of HAMK) so that I can
pick it up upon arrival (www.hamko.fi for more information);
taken copies of my passport, visa, insurance and other official documents so that I have at least
one copy in case I lose them / they disappear;
checked the connecting transportation options from the airport / harbour / train station to my
travel destination at HAMK;
informed my HAMK international contact person about my arrival (date, time, flight / train
number) and that I have his / her contact number in case of a change in plans / timetables.
13
14
Hme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) is a multidisciplinary institution of higher education. HAMK
has around 7000 students, 700 staff members, 23 bachelor-level degree programmes and 7 master-level
degree programmes.
HAMK is situated centrally in the most populated are of the country, southern Finland, where about half of
all Finns live. HAMK has units in seven locations within a 100 km area of range. These units specialise in
specific areas, namely culture; natural resources and the environment; natural sciences; social sciences,
business and administration; social services, health and sport; technology, communication and transport;
and professional teacher education. We have around 700 foreign students on our campuses and most of
them are foreign degree students studying at our degree programmes conducted in English. In addition to
these students, we receive around 100 exchange students every year.
14
15
HAMK Glossary
Exchange Student is a student who is studying at HAMK on a short exchange (usually for one semester).
Student Tutor is a current student who is trained to be a peer tutor for degree students
International Tutor is a current student who is trained to be a peer tutor for exchange students.
International Contact Person is a member of HAMK degree programme staff, who is responsible for
coordinating exchange student matters.
International Office is located in Hmeenlinna, the central office for all official international matters at
HAMK.
15
16
6. STUDYING AT HAMK
To this section we have gathered the most essential practical issues concerning your studies here at
HAMK. Remember, that you can always ask for guidance from tutors, the international contact person or
other HAMK staff members we are happy to help you!
When the new exchange students arrive in Finland, their personal HAMK tutor is usually there to meet
them for example at the bus or train station. Please, remember to inform you international contact person
and tutor about your arrival well in advance! The tutors will guide you through your first days, and will
instruct you on where and how to fill out any required applications and other paperwork (student card,
study certificate, rental agreement, daily computing matters etc.). You can read more about our tutors
and their tasks in Peer tutor-section.
16
17
In every HAMK campus there is an orientation programme during the first days of your studies. You will be
shown the campus area: library, cafeteria etc. and youll meet your international contact person and other
staff members. You will also get all the needed registration forms. When filling in the paperwork you should
have a photo of yourself with you (for a student card) and a certificate of approval to study at HAMK.
Peer Tutor
Contact info:
In case you have questions about tutoring or need
additional information please contact the Student
Unions adviser Mr. Aleksi Kurvi, ohjaus@hamko.fi.
17
18
Student Card
The student card can be obtained by joining the Student Union of HAMK (HAMKO). As a sign of your
membership, youll receive a student card that entitles you to receive several local and national discount
and benefits, such as discounts from train tickets (-45-55%), long-distance buses (-50%), overnight stays in
HI Finland hostels and museum tickets.
The Student Union rents out Survival Kits for international students studying at HAMK. The Survival Kit
includes essential kitchen necessities and bedclothes. The Kit can be rented for one semester at a time. The
price for Survival Kit is 100 EUR for members of the Student Union and 150 EUR for non-members. The
refund of 40 EUR will be paid to your bank account when the Kit is returned in good condition.
18
19
Intra
The intra-pages are meant for all HAMK students
and staff. After having received your username
and password, you can navigate to the intra-
pages by using the URL: intra.hamk.fi. You can ask
the degree programme staff for guidance! Intra is
mainly for degree students but there might be
some useful information for exchange students
as well.
Moodle
Moodle is a virtual learning environment
operating on the Internet and it can be used from
any computer with internet access. Some There is also information for current students in
teachers use Moodle as an extra teaching tool to the public HAMK website that requires no login:
give instructions for assignments. You may also http://www.hamk.fi/english/students. You can
submit required assignments to your teacher in easily and fast check useful information!
Moodle, and teachers can return comments of
checked assignments to you through Moodle. Registering for the Semester
You can access Moodle with your student All exchange students complete the Learning
username and password. You will also need a Agreement provided by HAMK. Based on the
password to enroll on the courses in Moodle. The learning agreement, exchange students are
password will be given to you by the teachers. registered for courses. This is done by HAMK
personnel
19
20
Meals
You can buy affordable food in HAMK's student restaurants and cafes with a student card. The price for
student meal is currently 2,60. Please find the opening hours of the HAMK restaurants in different
campuses here: http://www.hamk.fi/english/students/meals/Pages/default.aspx.
Please note that Finns tend to eat lunch quite early compared to other countries. Lunch time is normally
between 11 12.30.
Student Wellbeing
To support student's wellbeing, HAMK offers services of student well-being officer, student counselling
psychologist and sports coordinator. They work in all HAMK's campuses in cooperation with tutor teachers,
study counsellors, nurses, pastors and everyone connected to student services.
Best way to contact student wellbeing staff is via email. Bookings can also be made via student counsellors
or nurses.
Coordinator of sports
services
Maija Kerkola
tel. +358 50 5745939
maija.kerkola(at)hamk.fi
20
21
General Behaviour
Remember to be polite and exhibit good manners.
Please take others into consideration when you are doing something.
Please be punctual, follow the schedule and arrive at lectures and other official events on time.
Please leave jackets and outdoor clothes on the coat racks.
Please do not
disturb classes;
eat or drink in the classrooms;
litter;
leave chewing gum anywhere else than in the trash bins;
smoke inside the buildings or in front of the main doors - there are marked areas for smoking;
cheat or communicate in an examination. Mobile phones must be turned off;
plagiarise. It is strictly forbidden, and the consequences can be severe,
Participation in courses
Please enrol on a course before the deadline. Enrolment for courses is binding.
All lectures must be attended. In case you have to be absent from a lecture for any reason, please
inform your lecturer.
All assignments and group projects are included in the final assessment of your performance.
Students are expected to be deeply involved in the classroom discussions and group projects in
order to develop team work skills.
Please make sure you meet all the required deadlines. Plan your work in advance to stay on
schedule.
Remember telephone ethics. All telephones must be switched off or put to silence mode during
lectures. Note that answering telephone calls during lectures is prohibited.
Feedback is very important, so that lectures and course content can be improved.
Please note that the rules and guidelines are for everyone.
21
22
7. YOUR CAMPUS
HAMK Campus Locations
22
23
EVO
Adress
Saarelantie 1
16970 Evo International Contact Person
23
24
Evo is a HAMK campus specialised in first-rate Hmeenlinna is by bus. From the Helsinki-Vantaa
forestry know-how. There are about 1850 International Airport there are several bus
hectares of forests available for teaching and connections daily to Hmeenlinna. The cost is
research purposes at Evo. Evo was founded in around 12. Express buses to Hmeenlinna
1862 and was the first forest school in Finland. depart right outside terminals. The ticket can be
One of the founders was the famous A.G. purchased from the bus driver. Please note that
Blomqvist, also called the father of Finnish you may have to change buses in
forestry. The principal task of the school was to Keimonlanportti, about 10 minute drive from the
educate forest officers in the service of Finnish airport. It is best to consult the driver about the
forestry, but some members of the teaching staff possible change. For more information about the
were also able to initiate forest research. bus schedules and other information, please visit
Nowadays many things are based on the history www.matkahuolto.fi.
and traditions of Evo, e.g. some sport
competitions. The past is visible in the Trains from Helsinki to Hmeenlinna
surroundings, too. The school building and the There is also a Finnair bus connection to the
surrounding buildings are a mixture of old and Helsinki railway station, (around 5) from where
new. you can take a train to Hmeenlinna. (The
duration is just over one hour, and the cost,
The Evo campus is situated in the village of Iso- ranging from 8 to 16, depends on the type of
Evo in Lammi. Lammi is a rural district and part of train. The seat ticket is included in the train
the city of Hmeenlinna, northwest from Lahti, ticket.) Please check the timetables from the web
and the closest place with a post office, banks and site of the bus company (www.matkahuolto.fi)
shops. In addition to the village, Lammi has two and from the web site of Valtionrautatiet (VR,
other village centres, Lieso and Mommila. Finnish railways, www.vr.fi/eng.) You will have to
transfer from the Hmeenlinna train station to
Lammi was mentioned for the first time in Hmeenlinna central bus station (taking a taxi is
documents in 1374. It has been known for its flax the fastest option, there is also a bus connection
cultivation and sahti (traditional Finnish rural between the two stations) in order to take a bus
beer) manufacturing for centuries. Lammi to Lammi.
actually has a linen and sahti museum, a linen
centre as well as a linen shop. Nowadays Lammi Driving to Evo
is also known for its cheese production, jellies and When arriving by your own car, you should take
flowers. There are several educational centres in the motorway E12 from Helsinki and you will
Lammi; the oldest is the EVO Forestry School, reach Hmeenlinna directly. From Hmeenlinna
which is now a part of HAMK. Also e.g. the you should take highway 10 towards Lahti, by
Biologic Research Centre of Helsinki University is following the highway you will reach the signs to
situated in the municipality area. Evo. If you have any questions or problems, you
are welcome to contact your International
Travelling to Evo Coordinator or International Tutor. Please see
The most practical way to get to Evo is to come the contact information on the next page.
via Hmeenlinna. From Hmeenlinna there are If you are planning to stay in Helsinki prior to your
several bus connections to Lammi (duration 30 arrival in Hmeenlinna, you might have to use the
40 minutes). There is also a direct bus connection public transportation in Helsinki to get around.
from the Helsinki central bus station to Lammi, Please visit www.hsl.fi/EN to see the timetables
but it takes over three hours, so it is usually more and other information.
practical to come via Hmeenlinna.
24
25
In acute cases health care services are available Dental care is located at the Lammi Health
in the Lammi Health Centre or Kanta-Hme Centre. To make an appointment, call +358
Central Hospital. 3 621 9100 (Mon-Fri 7.45 15.30)
25
26
FORSSA
Adress
Wahreninkatu 11 International Contact Persons:
30100 Forssa
Nursing: Sustainable Development :
Degree Programmes in Forssa Ms Kirsi Liimatainen Ms Monna Alatalo
kirsi.liimatainen (at) hamk.fi monna.alatalo (at) hamk.fi
Conducted in Finnish:
Nursing
Sustainable Development
26
27
27
28
28
29
29
30
The student house is located within walking the apartment is left untidy, the deposit will be
distance from the city centre and approximately used for cleaning expenses.
2 km from HAMK Campus area. The building was Before the exchange student leaves to go back
fully renovated in 2004, and there are 94 home, a representative from HAMK degree
apartments in the complex. The apartment sizes programme will check that each months rent
vary between 29 m to 76.5m. has been paid.
The housing area includes a sauna, a laundry
room and a drying room. In the laundry room All exchange students will pay a fee of 30 for a
you can use the washing machine and the dryer Starter Kit to include linens and kitchen
for free. When planning to do the laundry, you supplies. The apartments for exchange students
should make a reservation in the reservation include basic furniture: bed with a mattress, a
book (mark the time and the number of your pillow and a blanket with linen, a desk in the
flat). All apartments have a fixed internet bedroom and a dining table with chairs. The
connection. kitchen is equipped with some cooking utensils,
cutlery, crockery and cleaning equipment.
The rent (220) includes all services, such as We recommend that you go to a post-office and
electricity, water, furniture, internet connection, fill in the Change of Address form (osoitteen-
and the right to use the laundry and sauna. Each muutos) to report your temporary address here
student must pay a deposit of 250. The rental in Finland. Your tutor will help you with this
period is equal to the length of the exchange procedure. It is also a good idea to put a name
period. A bank transfer form will be given to the tag on the letter box. That way you make sure
student upon signing the rental agreement. The that you receive all your letters!
student has one week to make the deposit
payment. The deposit will be returned to the
student if the apartment is left clean and tidy. If
School Nurse
Students studying at HAMK in Forssa can visit students have to make an appointment in the
the school nurse on Tuesdays 11.00 12.30 central health care centre.
without making an appointment (this is for Telephone: +358 3 41912224 (call time for
unexpected illnesses only). On other days, appointments is 9:00 10:00)
Address: HAMK Wahreninkatu 11, 1st floor
30
31
31
32
Construction Management
32
33
Hmeenlinna, the oldest inland town in Finland, series of Music in the Castle concerts, LinnaJazz
was founded by the governor general of Finland, jazz festival, the National Antiques Fair, and the
Count Peter Brahe in 1639. However, August fair for the whole family (www.hame.fi).
Hmeenlinna was already a trading place a There are many differ- ent museums: the history
hundred years before it became a town. museum, prison museum, artillery museum,
Construction of the medieval castle started in Sibelius birthplace museum, art museum and
the 13th century. The castle is the symbol of the postcard museum. A wide range of sports
town and a landmark in the history of buildings. facilities is provided in the town by several
History also comes alive in the town centre, sports and fitness clubs, a comprehensive
which has a church from the 18th century and cycling network and hiking trails around the hills
buildings from various periods in the 19th and of the Hattelmala ridge.
20th centuries. On 1 January 2009,
Hmeenlinna, Hauho, Kalvola, Lammi, Renko Most activities in Hmeenlinna are concentrated
and Tuulos municipalities joined together and around the Market Square and shopping centre
formed a new city called Hmeenlinna that has Goodman. The railway station is located about 1
an estimated population of 66,000. The total km from the Square and residences for
area is 1819 km, of which 247 km are lakes. international students about 2 5 km from the
Square. School buildings are situated in different
locations about 1 2 km from the Square.
Hmeenlinna has a long history as an
educational, garrison and administrative town,
For further information on Hmeenlinna, please
and it is nowadays the administrative centre of
visit www.hameenlinna.fi and
the province of Southern Finland. The town is
http://visithameenlinna.fi/?loc=2&.
known for its educational institutions such as
Hme University of Applied Sciences and the
Read also the moving to Hmeenlinna from
Continuing Educational Centre. Hmeenlinnas
abroad guide:
economy is based mainly on the service sector,
http://www.hameenlinna.fi/pages/400104/muu
in which public services are unusually
ttoprosessi/KUN%20MUUTAT%20H%c3%84MEE
prominent. In addition, Hmeenlinna has heavy
NLINNAAN%20ULKOMAILTA_en.pdf
and light engineering, and textile and printing
industries. Commuting to work from nearby
municipalities is common, but 800 Hmeenlinna
residents also commute to work in the greater
Helsinki metropolitan area, which is about one
hour away.
33
34
TRAVELLING TO HMEENLINNA
Bus Connection from Helsinki-Vantaa Bus Connection from Tampere to Hmeenlinna
International Airport to Hmeenlinna You can take a bus from Tampere city centre to
The easiest way to get from the airport to Hmeenlinna (you can find the timetables here:
Hmeenlinna is by bus. From the Helsinki-Vantaa www.matkahuolto.fi)
International Airport there are several bus
connections daily to Hmeenlinna. The cost is Trains from Helsinki to Hmeenlinna
around 17. Express buses to Hmeenlinna There is also a Finnair bus connection to the
depart right outside Terminal 2. The ticket can Helsinki railway station, (around 5) from where
be purchased from the bus driver. Please note you can take a train to Hmeenlinna. (The
that you may have to change buses in duration is just over one hour, and the cost,
Keimonlanportti, about 10 minute drive from ranging from 8 to 16, and depends on the
the airport. It is best to consult the driver about type of train. The seat ticket is included in the
the possible change. For more information train ticket.) Please check the timetables from
about the bus schedules and other information, the web site of the bus company
please visit www.matkahuolto.fi. (www.matkahuolto.fi) and from the web site of
Valtionrautatiet (VR, Finnish railways,
www.vr.fi/eng).
34
35
Trains from Tampere to Hmeenlinna If you are planning to stay in Helsinki prior to
If you want to take a train to Hmeenlinna, you your arrival in Hmeenlinna, you might have to
have to walk to the train station from the use the public transportation in Helsinki to get
Tampere central bus station (it takes about 15 around. Please visit www.hsl.fi/EN to see the
minutes on foot). You can find the train timetables and other information.
timetables from this website: www.vr.fi/eng/
(use the timetable search on the front page). Hotel information in Hmeenlinna
Search for: From: Tampere To: Hmeenlinna Hotel Cumulus, Raatihuoneenkatu 16 18,
You can buy the ticket beforehand from the 13100 Hmeenlinna,
train station. https://www.cumulus.fi/en/hotels/cumulus-
hameenlinna tel. +358 3 64 881
Driving to Hmeenlinna
When arriving by your own car, you should take Hotel Emilia, Raatihuoneenkatu 23, 13100
Hmeenlinna,
the motorway E12 from Helsinki and you will
www.hotelliemilia.fi tel. +358 36122 106
reach Hmeenlinna directly.
35
36
36
37
37
38
ACCOMMODATION IN HMEENLINNA
HAMK will arrange accommodation in advance untidy, the deposit will be used for cleaning
for exchange students provided that they inform expenses. On departure the rooms should be in
of their arrival well in advance. There are three the same condition as on arrival. The deposit will
different locations for exchange student housing be returned to the student if the apartment is left
in Hmeenlinna: Visamki, Sairio and Lahdensivu. clean and tidy. If the apartment is left untidy, the
deposit will be used for cleaning expenses.
Visamki Residences
Visamki Residences and most school buildings In the autumn semester (1 September
are located about 2 km from the city centre. It is, 31December), the minimum rental period for
however, only about 200 metres from the exchange students is four months. The rent will
Visamki campus, where the school be charged even if the student leaves earlier. In
administration, international office and some the spring semester, the minimum rental period
degree programmes are located. for exchange students is 4 5 months (from the
In Visamki there are a number of cozy looking beginning of January or February until the end of
terrace houses which were built in 1988 1991 May). The rent will be charged even if the student
and about 300 people live there. In the leaves earlier. Before the exchange student
apartments, there are two bedrooms (one for leaves to go back home, a representative from
each resident), a kitchen, a bathroom and in the HAMK degree programme will check that
some cases a balcony. All together the apartment each months rent has been paid.
is about 43 m. The housing area includes a
sauna, a laundry room and Sairio Dormitories
a common room for residents (with possibility to Sairio dormitories (Kankaistenkatu 33) are
play table tennis, etc.). In the laundry room, you located at HAMK Sairio Campus administered in
can use the washing machine and the dryer for collaboration with HAMI (Hme Vocational
free. When planning to do the laundry, you Institute), where also some HAMK degree
should make a reservation in the reservation programme classes are taught. Sairio is about
book (mark the time and the number of your 2km from Hmeenlinna city centre, 6.5 km from
apartment). Visamki Campus, and 5km from Lahdensivu
The apartments for exchange students include Campus. Sairio residences are traditional campus
basic furniture: bed with a mattress, a pillow and dormitories. Two students live in a single room
a blanket (no linen), a desk in the bedroom and a with two beds and a bathroom. They share a
dining table with chairs in the kitchen. kitchen in the hallway with other students.
38
39
39
40
40
41
LEPAA
Adress
Lepaantie 129
14610 Lepaa International Contact Person
41
42
Lepaa manor is one of the oldest manors in constructions in a modern hall with all needed
Finland. The first known owner, Pietari, lived materials.
around 1450. The next owner was the most
famous family member Hannu Bjrninpoika who Travelling to Lepaa
also owned several other manors such as You travel to Lepaa via Hmeenlinna. There are 7
Harviala, ik, Suontaka and Lammi. After that 8 local bus connections (bus number 17) from
Lepaa has had various owners. The last private Hmeenlinna to Lepaa during weekdays and 2 on
owner Mr Packaln and his wife did not have weekends. However, when you arrive for the first
children, and Mr Packlen bequeathed Lepaa to time in Lepaa, our international tutors will pick
the state of Finland asking it to be turned into a you up from Hmeenlinna, if you have informed
horticultural school. your time of arrival well in advance (at least 1
week prior to your travel).
The timing for this will was perfect because some
years earlier the Russian Tsar (Finland was under Bus Connection from Helsinki-Vantaa
Russian Realm until 1917) had given a statute to International Airport to Hmeenlinna
arrange horticultural training in Finland and the Take a bus from the airport, its easy and there
State of Finland was looking for a place to are several connections to Hmeenlinna! The
establish higher horticultural education. cost is around 12. The buses depart right outside
the terminals 1 and 2. The ticket can be
Lepaa is the oldest and most prestigious institute purchased from the driver; cash and major credit
where you can study horticulture in Finland. cards accepted. Please note, you may have to
Today Lepaa is one of the campuses of Hme change buses at Keimolanportti, about 10 min
University of Applied Sciences. Horticultural drive from the airport, however the driver will
training began back in 1910 when Lepaa manor announce this. For more info, visit:
was converted into a school. www.matkahuolto.fi
42
43
when arriving at Lepaa and will take you to your a sauna. Each student is responsible for keeping
dormitory immediately. You will also receive the the dormitory clean. On departure, the rooms
key for your dormitory then and the tutor will tell must be in the same condition as on arrival.
you about the practical arrangements, rules and
instructions on how to get to the school, town Rent in Lepaa
centre, etc. from your residence. The rent of a double room is about
130/person/month. Electricity and water are
Students at Lepaa live in dormitories in the school included in the rent. Single rooms are available
area. The names of the dormitories are Koivula, upon request. As a general rule due to lack of
Taltela, Tarhala, Uudet rivitalot (new row capacity, single rooms are available for students
houses), Kivitalo and Marata. Dormitories include with a medical condition (and proof thereof),
basic furniture: bed with mattress, pillow and only. Students will have to keep their rooms tidy.
blanket (2 sets of bedlinen, which you are
expected to wash washing machines are at your Lock out
disposal in each unit), desk in the bedroom and a During normal office hours (weekdays between
dining table with chairs in the kitchen. 7am 3pm), the students must phone: +358 40
5857 172/caretaker on duty. Lockout fee applies.
The kitchen is equipped with some cooking Outside our office hours the lockout fee may be
utensils, cutlery, crockery and cleaning more than 100. There is a 50 charge for each
equipment. The student housing complex has a or lost or stolen key.
communal room for tenants, a laundry room and
43
44
MUSTIALA
Adress
Mustialantie 105
31310 Mustiala International Contact Person
44
45
In 1556 the Swedish king Gustav Vasa founded a Mustiala. In all cases you should inform her well
kings estate in the Tammela municipality, in the in advance about your arrival time and date.
Mustiala village in Finland. The kings estate had
many different owners until 1840 when the first Bus Connections from the Airport to
agricultural school in Finland, Mustiala Forssa /Mustiala
Agricultural Institute, started its activities there. From the Helsinki-Vantaa International airport
The school was founded on the initiative of the there are several bus connections to Pori via
Finnish Society of Economics. The Society was Forssa central bus station (one way ticket around
founded in 1797 and had a strong impact on the 25). Please check the timetables from the web
Finnish financial politics. Besides financial politics, site of Matkahuolto, www.matkahuolto.fi/en.
the society promoted development activities in Taking a bus is by far the easiest way to reach
the agricultural and the health care sector. Forssa.
Travelling to Mustiala
Mustiala is located approximately 10 km from
Forssa. Please make prior arrangements with the
International Contact Person, Monna Alatalo
regarding transportation from Helsinki/Forssa to
45
46
46
47
School nurse Ms. Anitta Mero is available on Health care on evenings and weekends in Forssa
Wednesdays at 13-14.00 at Karjamaja. Outside
opening hours, please book a time: +358 50 630 During weekday evenings (16.00 22.00), and
52 (phonetime klo 9.00 - 10.00) or on weekends (9.00 21.00) you can reach the
anitta.mero(at)fstky.fi emergency unit by phoning +358 3 41912010 or
+358 3 41 911.
Exchange students (staying in Mustiala for over 3
months) are entitled to use the services of the During night time (22.00 8.00) you can reach
Municipal Health Care in order to see a doctor. the emergency unit by phoning +358 3 4191
Municipal health centres are meant for residents 3000.
of the municipality, but they also help a student, Address: Urheilukentnkatu 9, 30100 Forssa
who has become acutely ill and needs care.
A doctors appointment in the public health care
Appointment times for a general doctor in centre costs 14 28 for one time. There are
Tammela are 8.00 15.00, tel: +358 3 4191 2141. several private doctors as well, but they are
If you find that you cannot keep your generally more expensive.
appointment, please cancel it no later than one
day before (automatic answering service). Dental Care
For Dental care appointments call:
+358 3 4191 2561
Pharmacy
Hakkapeliitantie 4, Tammela
Open Mon Fri 9.00 17.00,
Sat 9.00 13.00.
47
48
RIIHIMKI
Adress
Kaartokatu 2
International Contact Person
11100 Riihimki
Ms.Taru Kosunen
Degree Programmes in Riihimki
taru.kosunen (at) hamk.fi
Conducted in Finnish:
Information Technology
Mechanical and Production Engineering
Traffic and Transport Management
Conducted in English:
48
49
Riihimki is a small town with 28,800 inhabitants Another convenient option is the bus 61 from
and lies at the junction of southern Finlands main Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to Tikkurila railway
motorways and railway lines. The town is located station, and by train to Riihimki.
about 70 km from Helsinki and the airport, and it
takes only 45 minutes to reach Riihimki from Bus and train connection from the Tampere
anywhere in the Helsinki metropolitan area. airport
The history of Riihimki is closely connected to Tampere-Pirkkala airport is within 30 minutes bus
the history of Finnish railways. As the Russian ride from Tampere city centre. The most
Emperor Alexander the Second ordered, the convenient way from the airport to Riihimki is a
railway from Helsinki to Hmeenlinna was bus to Tampere city centre (Pyynikintori or the
finished in 1862. The town of Riihimki began to railway station depending on the line) and
develop in the 19th century. In early timetables, continuing by train to Riihimki. Almost all
the name Riihimki appeared as a name of a Tampere-Helsinki trains stop at Riihimki. Airport
railway station. The railway between Riihimki connections with bus timetables are available at
and St. Petersburg, finished in 1869, became finavia.fi and train timetables at vr.fi.
available for use on September 11th in 1870. The
town celebrates the date as its birthday. The Old Driving to Riihimki
Russian garrison was built a little later in the When arriving by car, you should take the
1910s while Finland was still under the Czarist motorway E12 from Helsinki directly to Riihimki.
rule. Please contact your degree programme
Beside railway lines, Riihimki is known for know- personnel for further information.
how in glassmaking. Craftspeople con- tinue the
tradition of glassmaking even today in their A map of Riihimki can be found from
workshops. The Finnish Glass Museum in http://kartta.riihimaki.fi/
Riihimki focuses on the history of glassmaking in
Finland, glass design and art in glass. Riihimki is If you are planning to stay in Helsinki prior to your
also well known for its concentration of expertise arrival in Riihimki, you might have to use the
in environmental technology. The advanced public transportation in Helsinki to get around.
informa- tion and communication technology Please visit www.hsl.fi/EN to see the timetables
sector is a large employer in Riihimki, along with and other information.
metal and mechanical engineering industry. Food
processing and the wood industry are important Hotel Information
industrial sectors in Riihimki as well. Hotel Seurahuone Riihimki, Hmeenkatu 29,
For more information about the town of 11100 Riihimki. Tel: +358 19 716270, e-mail:
Riihimki, please visit www.riihimaki.fi/english. myynti@seurahuone.fi, www.seurahuone.fi/
english. They will close reception before
Travelling to Riihimki midnight.
Bus Connections from Helsinki and Tampere to
Riihimki Scandic Riihimki, Hmeenaukio 1, 11100
Riihimki. Tel: +358 19
There is a convenient bus connection from the 7721, e-mail:riihimaki@scandichotels.com.
airport (Helsinki-Vantaan lentoasema) to www.scandichotels.com
Riihimki. Taking a bus is by far the easiest and They have a reception open all night.
cheapest way to reach Riihimki. Some of the
long-distance buses may leave you at the bus
stop outside the town. It is best to consult the
driver about ordering a taxi for the last four
kilometers. Please check the timetables from the
website of the bus company
(www.matkahuolto.fi).
49
50
50
51
51
52
52
53
VALKEAKOSKI
Adress
Tietotie 1 International Contact Persons:
37630 Valkeakoski
Engineering programmes: International Business:
Degree Programmes in Valkeakoski Ms. Annina Herala Ms. Dawn Aarnio
annina.herala (at) hamk.fi dawn.aarnio (at) hamk.fi
Conducted in Finnish:
Electrotechnology and Automation
Technology )
Conducted in English:
Electrical and Automation Engineering
International Business
53
54
Buses from Helsinki-Vantaa international Airport There is a bus connection from Toijala to
to Valkeakoski Valkeakoski operated by Valkeakosken Liikenne
There is a convenient bus connection from the www. valkeakoskenliikenne.fi (Unfortunately this
airport (Helsinki-Vantaan lentoasema) to Valkea- website is in Finnish only. If you need detailed
koski. Taking a bus is by far the easiest way to get informa- tion, please ask help from your tutor or
to Valkeakoski. Please consult the student/ HAMK personnel in advance).
international tutors about the transportation
from the Valkeakoski central bus station or bus Driving to Valkeakoski
stop to HAMK Campus in Valkeakoski. Long- When arriving by car, you should take the motor-
distance buses stop at the bus station in way E12 from Helsinki and head north towards
Valkeakoski, as well as at other bus stops in Valkeakoski. You will see signs for Tampere and
various places in Valkeakoski: Hmeenlinna prior to signs to Valkeakoski. Please
contact HAMK personnel or
If you arrive during business hours (9.00 student/international tutor for further
15.00), you should go directly to Valkeakosken information.
Asunnot office to take care of your
accommodation arrangements.
54
55
55
56
HAMK will arrange accommodation in advance private landlords as well. If you have any
for exchange students provided that they inform questions about accommodation in Valkeakoski,
of their arrival well in advance. Most of the please contact Ms. Annina Herala (annina.herala
apartments for exchange students include basic (at) hamk.fi).
furniture: bed with a mattress, a desk in the
bedroom and a dining table with chairs in the The apartment sizes in Valkeakoski vary from
kitchen. The cooking utensils, cleaning one to three bedrooms with a shared kitchen
equipment linen, pillows or blankets are not and bathroom.
necessarily included.
Pajutie 1 (Lotila bus stop)
NOTE: Please notice that an exchange student Rent: 371 485
doesn't need to apply for an apartment by him- Location: proximity to school 750
/herself. International Contact Person will do it for meters
you. Conditions: moderately recent building
Store: Siwa (for groceries)
The Student Apartments in Valkeakoski are Extra: closest to school, but it is in a
administered by Valkeakosken Asunnot Oy. residential area a bit far from town
HAMK Valkeakoski co-operates with some centre
56
57
General Information upon arrival The deposit will be released within two weeks
When you arrive Valkeakosken Asunnot Oy will after all keys are given back to Valkeakosken
have a rental agreement ready for you. Office Asunnot. Possible cleaning costs will be
hours are normally between 9.00 15.00 on deducted.
57
58
Police Station
Apiankatu 5, PO Box 38 Local Register Office
37601 Valkeakoski located in Tampere Hatanpn valtatie 24, PO
tel. +358 71 874 6329 (permits, etc.) Box 682
33101 Tampere
Police Station/ Administrative Office (permits, tel. +358 29 553 7497, +358 29 553 7507
etc.) (foreigners affairs)
Hatanpn valtatie 16, PO Box 147 www.maistraatti.fi
33101 Tampere
tel. +358 71 874 5415
58
59
Welcome to HAMK
Hme University of Applied Sciences
International Affairs Office
Version 2016-03
Updated 25-MAY-2016
59