Ville Siiskonen

Rugby isn’t popular in Finland and I would probably have never encountered this beautiful sport without my friends at UWC

Ville Siiskonen attended UWC of the Atlantic from 2004-2006. He is currently in his second year at the University of Helsinki, where he studies meteorology. A keen Rugby player, Ville has recently been selected to play for the Finnish national team.

Originally from Kangasniemi in Central Finland, Ville was selected to attend UWC of the Atlantic by the UWC National Committee of Finland. In turn, he himself has become involved with the Committee’s work, recently representing them at the 2009 Global National Committee Meeting at Waterford Kamhlaba UWC of Southern Africa, Swaziland.

His dedication to the organisation stems from his own positive experience and a desire to re-create this for others.

Ville says that his UWC experience was very different to his earlier schooling and he particularly enjoyed the extra-curricular activities that were open to him.

“In Finland, I lived in the countryside, so I didn’t have enough possibilities to get involved in organisations etc. At UWC of the Atlantic, I had so many different ways to get involved. I didn’t get involved in global issues or activities; I was more interested in making an impact on grass root level. I was part of the Estate Service – a community service, which worked mainly on the college grounds – and I organised baking activity. I was involved with sports, as well, and I organised the sports focus week on campus during my second year.

“I learned to play rugby in UWC of the Atlantic and after my graduation I’ve been playing in Finland on the top division. I play for Helsinki Rugby Club. Just like our rugby team in Atlantic College, Helsinki Rugby Club also has many players from different countries. I find that playing in a multicultural team is very exciting.

“Rugby isn’t popular in Finland and I would probably have never encountered this beautiful sport without my friends at UWC of the Atlantic. My ultimate dream was to play for Finland one day. At the end of April 2009, it finally came true when I was selected to play against Bulgaria and Israel.

“UWC has had an enormous impact on my life, especially on my social skills. I feel that I’ve been privileged to learn about so many different aspects of life from my UWC-friends. I think that all those friendships that I’ve made during UWC (also after graduation) have made me a better person. I also wish that I can give something good to other people through my actions.”