Superheroes Without Capes: My Journey as a RUN-EU Ambassador
RUN European University (RUN-EU) launched its first official short advanced programme for student ambassadors last autumn. The role of the student ambassadors is to share their own RUN-EU experiences with their student communities and thus encourage new students to seize the opportunities offered by our European University. HAMK alumna Milla Räty talks about the student ambassadors’ face-to-face week in Bruges, Belgium, and shares her own RUN-EU story.
When I was a kid, I dreamed of being a superhero. Didn’t we all? As I grew up, I traded my imaginary cape for real-life experiences and discovered that true superhero qualities aren’t superpowers – they’re courage, resilience, empathy, and kindness. These traits don’t just make a difference in your own life but can transform the world around you.
These superhero traits are also beneficial for RUN-EU student ambassadors.
My journey with RUN-EU has been nothing short of life-changing. It’s been a path filled with opportunities to grow, learn self-awareness, and master the art of active listening and empathetic communication.
My journey with RUN-EU has been filled with opportunities to grow, learn self-awareness, and master the art of active listening and empathetic communication.
From the frosty landscapes of Finland to Belgium’s charming streets, the emerald shores of Ireland to the vibrant Netherlands, and the sunlit realms of Spain and Portugal, RUN-EU has whisked me across Europe. These experiences are not just about seeing new places – they’re about forging human connections that turn challenges into opportunities. Each workshop, every discussion, and all the learning have been stepping stones to becoming my best self.
During the RUN-EU short advanced programme in Bruges, these trailblazing students explored visualization, inclusive communication, and how to make an impact as true RUN-EU ambassadors. They learned that even struggles – like anxiety, fear of public speaking, or overthinking – can be transformed into strengths like resilience, preparation, and creative problem-solving.
as RUN-EU project assistant.
The student ambassadors commitment, openness and energy made the event unforgettable. The active participation and cooperation of the students created an inspiring atmosphere where everyone could learn and grow together. I am particularly proud of the HAMK students who led by example by showing up on time and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the week.
To inspire them, I shared my own story through a video. I spoke about turning setbacks into growth, acting with integrity even when others don’t, and finding strength in vulnerability. These lessons have shaped me into the person I am today, fuelling my desire to share knowledge and uplift others.
Since joining the first RUN-EU Student Council at HAMK in 2021, I’ve met hundreds of people, shared countless ideas, and learned one invaluable truth: how you make people feel is what truly leaves an impact. You can explain how amazing these opportunities are, but if you don’t believe in them, you can’t pass on the magic.
Where else could you gain new skills, travel Europe, and build lifelong friendships? RUN-EU has given me more personal growth than I could have imagined.
And magic it truly is. Where else could you gain new skills, travel Europe, and build lifelong friendships? RUN-EU has given me more personal growth than I could have imagined. If my story inspires even one future ambassador, I’ll consider my job well done.
To the next generation of RUN-EU ambassadors, I say this: Have courage and be kind. These qualities will make you a true superhero, leaving a lasting impact on all eight RUN-EU institutions and beyond.
The next Short Advanced Programme for RUN-EU Student Ambassadors will be organised at HAMK in spring.
To see all the upcoming learning opportunities at RUN-EU, visit the website at run-eu.eu!
For more information regarding RUN-EU ambassadors
RUN European University
We are part of RUN European University, which brings together eight European higher education institutions from seven countries committed to a common vision.
