Meet Kira Haataja, a current master’s student at the University of Turku and an UTU ambassador 2025-2026!
"I’ve always been driven by curiosity about disease and a vision for cures – that’s what led me to the programme in Drug Discovery and Development.
Hi! I’m Kira, born and raised in Finland, so Turku is no stranger to me anymore! I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology, more specifically physiology and genetics at UTU and then spent 8 months studying and working in Norway. This field — and the future of human health — needs professionals from numerous different backgrounds. What matters most is a genuine interest and curiosity to drive discoveries forward!
As an extremely curious person, my career plans are still wide open — but what I love about Turku is that there are so many prospective employers here. We get to visit companies, and they also come to meet us during lectures, which makes the connection between studies and working life very real.
I originally come from closer to the capital, but I moved to Turku for my bachelor’s degree in 2021. Since then, this city has quickly become my favourite place: a compact campus, warm-hearted atmosphere, efficient public transportation, and best of all — amazing nature right next door. In my free time, you’ll probably find me at the gym, learning way too many new languages, sailing, flying, travelling, or just enjoying the outdoors nearby. I’ve also worked as a research assistant on several projects at UTU and love being active, especially in international contexts.
And yes — you might have heard that we Finns can be a little introverted… but we also make the most loyal, lifelong friends! Welcome to the best student city in the world! "
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