Experiences of studying Health Care at HAMK

Starting the studies

Starting my studies at HAMK was a time full of excitement and anticipation. The first few weeks in a new school environment offered opportunities to get to know fellow students and the versatile campus facilities. At first, organizing and scheduling my studies took some getting used to, but the wonderful tutors and teachers were there to support us—and still are.

I also feel that it’s important to make time for leisure activities and hobbies, or simply for something enjoyable. I highly recommend HAMK Moves, which offers free or discounted sports services for students.

From the very first days, HAMK has strengthened my professional skills, not only through theoretical studies but also through a wide range of practical exercises. The modern teaching and simulation facilities have provided realistic learning experiences. The sense of community is also strongly present in daily interactions. The support and collaboration among students enhance each individual’s unique learning path.

Skill workshops and simulations

Studying in the health care field involves many skill workshops and simulations. In these workshops and simulations, we get to practice the things we’ve learned in theory.

Our first skill workshops took place in the same fall when we started our studies. The first skill workshop day made me a bit nervous at first, but with the support of teachers and classmates, everything went smoothly, and the practice sessions were calm.

In simulations, we usually receive a specific case around which we practice how to handle the situation. Simulations are very educational, and they provide a great opportunity for self-improvement. After each simulation, the group receives encouraging feedback, which helps identify areas for development and think about how to act in a real-life situation. Personally, I consider the skill workshops and simulations to be some of my favorite days in my studies.

Work placements

When studying in the field of health care, a large part of the study time is spent on practical training. Typically, each academic year includes two work placements, though this may vary between students due to the availability of the organizations that provide work placements.

Before practical training, we focus on theoretical studies. After gaining the theoretical knowledge, it is the best thing to go and practice those skills in real-life settings with health care professionals.

I encourage everyone to apply for a variety of health care environments and go to a new place each time. This way, you get the most out of each experience, and your skills develop significantly. During work placements, it’s important to be open to observing and participating in everything possible.

After the work placement, it’s good to remember that you don’t need to master everything perfectly just yet. It’s great that after completing several work placements, you might receive a job offer from a place where you did your practical training.

Student life

There’s much more to student life than just studying, and I don’t only mean student parties. I especially want to highlight HAMK’s fantastic sports opportunities, which have provided a wonderful balance to studying.

At the Hämeenlinna campus, there’s a sports hall and a gym, and HAMK Moves also organizes various group exercise classes. There are many options, so everyone is sure to find something they enjoy.

In Hämeenlinna, you can also experience a lot of culture in your free time, for example by visiting Häme Castle or going to the movies at Verkatehdas. However, my favourite place is Aulanko with its stunning outdoor scenery and observation tower.

Student events are community-oriented, and they offer a great chance to meet new people. The best part, in my opinion, is the variety of events, such as checkpoint races, which are followed by a fun night at a nightclub!