Freshmen FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do before my studies begin?
Before your studies begin, make sure to accept your study place, register at the university and read through Tampere University's instructions for new students. Keep an eye on your email, as you will receive important information about starting your studies and orientation week.
Don't worry if everything still feels a little confusing! You'll receive plenty of useful information during orientation week, and your tutors will help you get started.
What is orientation week, and should I attend?
Orientation week is an introductory week organized for new students. During the week, you'll get to know the university, your fellow students, tutors and the Biopsi community.
The week includes information sessions, campus tours and various social events. We highly recommend participating as much as possible, as orientation week is a great way to settle into university life and make new friends.
Who are tutors, and what can they help me with?
Tutors are older students who help freshmen get started with university life. They can guide you through campus facilities, study practices, student events and getting to know other students.
Feel free to ask your tutors anything about student life – there are no silly questions!
What is Biopsi ry, and how can I become a member?
Biopsi ry is the student association for biotechnology and biomedical engineering students at Tampere University. Biopsi organizes events, represents students' interests and brings students together.
You can become a member by filling out the membership application form on Biopsi's website. New students can also get help with joining from their tutors during the first days of university.
The annual membership fee is €12.
What is Kerhis, and where is it located?
Kerhis is Biopsi's clubroom, located on Tampere University's Kauppi campus in room F108 of the Arvo building.
Kerhis is a shared living room for Biopsi members, where you can spend time between lectures, enjoy coffee, study or simply catch up with fellow students.
Feel free to stop by Kerhis – it's a great place to meet other Biopsi members!
What is the Freshmen Passport, and how does it work?
The Freshmen Passport, or *Fuksipassi*, is a collection of challenges designed to help new students explore university life, Tampere and the Biopsi community.
The passport includes various activities, such as attending student events, experiencing university traditions and completing fun challenges. By completing tasks, you earn phosphates (*fosfaatit*), which are awarded by your tutors.
Traditionally, freshmen who collect at least 50 phosphates are rewarded at Ryömijäiset, while the student with the most phosphates earns the honorary title of Superfuksi!
When will I get my student overalls, and where can I buy overall patches?
Biopsi's student overalls are purple and are an important part of Finnish student culture. Information about ordering overalls and delivery schedules will be shared with freshmen separately.
You can collect overall patches at various student events or purchase them from Biopsi's own patch collection. Biopsi patches can also be ordered using the online form available on the website.
Every patch tells a story from your student years!
What kinds of events does Biopsi organize?
Biopsi organizes a wide variety of events throughout the academic year. These include sauna evenings, academic table parties known as *sitsit*, game nights, sports activities, excursions and annual celebrations.
Events are a great opportunity to meet other students, have fun and take a break from studying.
Don't hesitate to join, even if you don't know anyone yet!
Can I participate in student events without drinking alcohol?
Absolutely! You can participate in student events without drinking alcohol, and drinking is never a requirement for joining in.
The most important parts of Biopsi's events are spending time together, meeting new people and having fun. You're welcome to participate in whatever way feels comfortable for you.
Where can I get help if I have questions or don't know what to do?
Your tutor or another Biopsi member is a great place to start. Tutors and older students are happy to help with questions about student life.
For academic matters, you can also contact the university's student services or teaching staff.
If your question concerns Biopsi's activities, you can contact the board by email at [email protected].
Remember, you don't need to know everything on your first day!
