5 Questions with Dina Pöllänen
Meet Dina, the Head of Project Access Team Finland!
She’s currently studying Biochemistry at Imperial college London and joined Project Access after attending Team Finland’s Bootcamp in 2022. Dina started as an outreach officer before stepping up to the role as the head of the team.
Outside of her studies and Project Access, Dina is a former Finnish national-level ice skater and still finds time to skate weekly in London.
1. How did you get into your current role at Project Access?
In 2024, we had a small Finnish team consisting of our previous head of our team, Lauri, and me. Together, we shaped the future vision and welcomed some new team members. When Lauri announced his upcoming retirement, I stepped forward, eager to take on the challenge and lead the team. Today, we’re proud to have grown into a team of 10!
2. What is your favourite part of PA?
Community and giving back!
From meeting amazing mentors and role models as a high schooler to building a network of Finns studying abroad and collaborating with PA’s international team, I truly enjoy my work.
Helping the next generation of Finnish students reach their dreams makes our work deeply meaningful — we literally have the power to change someone's life, and that is truly inspirational to me.
3. What’s one bucket list experience you’d love to check off?
To visit the Lofoten Islands in Norway one day!
4. Best study tip?
Have your own goals! When aiming for or studying at the world’s top universities, the competition is fierce, and there will always be someone better than you in some way. But we each have a unique blend of talents to offer and our own vision of where we want to go. Be brave to focus on your own journey and what makes sense for you.
5. What role does storytelling play in PA’s communications strategy?
“I love working at PA Finland because of our tight-knit community.”
It’s incredibly rewarding to bring together past bootcamp attendees, Finns studying abroad, former team members, our partners and the next high schoolers just starting their journey.
In 2024, we had Simon and Harshita from PA International visit our bootcamp, which is an unforgettable experience as a high schooler and team member. Speaking from experience, as I have been part of it in both roles and this autumn will mark my fourth time at the bootcamp! Last year, we also celebrated our 5th bootcamp with a party and a DJ as you can see in the picture!
Photography Credits: Jieming You (All)