Almost all the universities in Finland have a “Kummi” or “Student Tutor” program once or twice a year. This is a kind of part-time job for a short period of time for the students.
I did not work as a Kummi during my master’s, but I assisted my friend who was a Kummi. I was doing some of her tasks as sometimes she was very busy. I saw the journey very closely. I will write about it so that it can help you get this meaningful experience.
In this blog, I will tell you about:
- What is this Kummi program?
- Responsibilities of a Kummi
- When and how to apply
- Selection process
- Payment for the role
- Why do I think it is important for you to attend.
What is the Kummi program?
A lot of students come to study in a university for a degree program or a semester (exchange program) from abroad every year. When they reach university, it might be a bit difficult for them to get used to the new environment. The target of the program is to assist the upcoming students to get familiar with the university and the city.
The university selects some of the students every year for this role. The Kummi (in Finnish) or the Student Tutor (in English) helps the upcoming students on behalf of the university. The university authority distributes a particular number of students to each Kummi.
Responsibilities of a Kummi
The Kummi is responsible for several tasks. After being selected as a Kummi, you will get a list of approximately 5-10 students with their contact information. Then the Kummi starts contacting each student and gets to know their itinerary. The Kummi can also open a group chat on any of the social platforms (WhatsApp/Discord/Telegram, etc.). It will help the students to get to know each other, and also it will be easy to spread any information.
A Kummi can receive students from the airport/train station and take them to their apartment. The students can ask the Kummi to pick up the key to the student’s apartment from the housing company. I did this part for three exchange students who came to the University of Oulu as exchange students.
The Kummi can organize a session with the students and introduce them to the whole university area. The students get to know about the facilities, canteens, etc. The Kummi can organize an event to take the students around the city, probably also a lunch in a restaurant could be a good idea. Do not worry, the students pay for themselves; you will just guide them.
When and how to apply?
Usually, the university sends an email to all the current students about the initiation of the Kummi program. They have a specific deadline within which you have to apply. To apply as a Kummi, you need to fill out a form. The form asks questions about:
- Your current year of studies
- Study program/department
- Motivation for applying
- Why do you think you will be suitable as a Kummi?
- Do you have any previous experience in such work? etc.
Kummi shows around the university campus to the new students.
Selection Process
The university authority goes through all the applications and asks some of the students for an interview. It is just a casual interview that sometimes takes place in a team and sometimes individually. Just be prepared to have a casual conversation with the interviewer. It is not a technical interview, so do not worry. Just be yourself. Once selected as a Kummi, you will get necessary training regarding what you need to do. You will also have a person to contact in case you need help.
Payment for this role
The university decides a maximum total number of hours for a Kummi that he/she can spend. Depending on the number of students, the allocated hours are usually between 12 to 20 hours. This role is paid hourly by the university.
You have to maintain an Excel sheet to keep track of the hours from the very beginning. Do not forget to keep track of the responsibilities. You have to submit the hours to the authority. The authority will evaluate your hours with the responsibilities. Then they will disburse the money to your account. The hourly rate is about 14-16 euros per hour.
Why do I think you should join as a Kummi?
I think it is a great chance to meet new people and make meaningful connections. This is not limited to the new students only. You will also be a part of a big group of Kummi from different departments and backgrounds.
At the same time, you get to lead a small team from the front. It can also be a great opportunity for nurturing your communication skills. Moreover, you are getting paid for this. I know it is not a lot of money; however, it comes with the experience. You can add this experience in your LinkedIn and CV.
I worked as a University Ambassador during my master’s. I will write down that story some other time. Thank you for reading.