Anton Jääskeläinen, a student of automotive engineering, combines competitive gymnastics with his engineering studies
Anton Jääskeläinen, who has been interested in cars for a long time, studies automotive engineering at Metropolia UAS and competes in gymnastics at a high level. Anton started gymnastics at the age of six, realized in middle school that he had the potential to reach a high level, and the sport captivated him. After graduating from Mäkelänrinne Sports High School, Anton was selected to Metropolia directly with his high school diploma, and he began his automotive engineering studies in the fall of 2022.
"Metropolia was an easy choice. After high school, I completed my military service at the sports school in Santahamina. Then I started googling interesting study places until I came across Metropolia's automotive engineering program. I read about the student’s experiences and the diverse employment opportunities, and then I applied here," says Anton.
Skilled teachers and good team spirit inspire learning
Anton has been very satisfied with the way the studies are conducted. He describes that usually, they first get acquainted with the theory, and then they get to the actual matter, which is testing things on a practical level. In automotive engineering, students should have mathematical and scientific knowledge, as many of the courses also involve a lot of calculations. Anton also likes that he can ask the teachers anything, and nothing remains unclear to the students.
"The teachers and lecturers are very experienced and professional. Sometimes you wonder how someone can have so much knowledge. Everyone is very nice, professional, and approachable, and they always have answers to your questions," says Anton.
Despite a busy schedule filled with sports and studies, Anton also manages to work as a technical maintenance person, for example, maintaining training equipment. He travels several tens of kilometers daily between Urhea in Mäkelänrinne, Metropolia's Myyrmäki campus, and his home in East Helsinki.
“I participate less in student parties and other events. However, I feel that the school spirit is good. We have a nice group with other students, and our shared interest in cars brings us together. It's nice that we also have many of the same courses with mechanical engineering students," Anton notes.
Athlete-friendly study solutions as an advantage
Anton says he trains about ten times a week, with the busiest competition seasons being in spring and autumn. Despite the intense training schedule, his studies have progressed smoothly. Flexibility in combining competitive sports and higher education is also provided by the fact that some lessons can be attended remotely, and even exam dates can be rescheduled.
Anton has prioritized his courses based on where he wants to focus his efforts and has successfully completed important courses at his own pace. He has already completed his first internship. Anton appreciates that he can come to the Myyrmäki campus in the evenings or during his free time to complete missing assignments or conduct car laboratory measurements.
"Metropolia has been very positive about my life as an athlete. When necessary, I have been able to skip classes and study independently. The best part is that I have always received help from the study counselor or teachers when needed," says Anton, who considers flexibility to be Metropolia's strength.
Goal: A medal in a major competition
Anton, who has been practicing gymnastics since childhood, is still somewhat uncertain about his future sports plans. "It depends on how well my body holds up. Usually, people stop around the age of 25-26. My goal is still to win a medal in a major competition," Anton describes.
Anton plans to graduate as an automotive engineer in 2026-2027. He sees Metropolia's automotive engineering degree as a competitive education that offers diverse employment opportunities. He doesn't have a precise career plan yet, but he is interested in working in car importation, for example. Anton recommends automotive engineering studies to those who like all kinds of vehicles and want to participate in their development and repair.
"I am a living example that higher education at Metropolia is also suitable for athletes. Starting my studies was a bit nerve-wracking, but everything has gone well. I have also recommended automotive engineering to another gymnastics friend of mine, who applied here in the spring joint application," Anton concludes.