”Before Haaga-Helia, I never envisioned myself as an entrepreneur.”

”I believe entrepreneurship comes naturally to some, as if they’re born with it”, says Elena Popovici. “Others may acquire these skills over time, and Haaga-Helia has equipped me with essential tools for this learning journey.”

Popovici completed her International Business bachelor's degree studies at Haaga-Helia in just three years, graduating in 2022. She specialized in Customer Relationship Management, Communication and Human Resources with an advantageous economic degree in mind. Prior to these studies, she already had earned herself a degree in Translation and Interpreting from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, and made use of her expertise by working for such multinationals as Hermès.

”To better my knowledge, get my diploma and focus on changing careers while helping other companies – that was my plan”, Popovici explains. “But it didn’t go like that, since at Haaga-Helia you have the opportunity to network and communicate with CEOs, founders and investors from day one.”

Popovici started digging into the topic of entrepreneurship by for example taking an active role in the workings of Haaga-Helia’s Entrepreneurship Society, Xes Helsinki. Today she is the Co-Founder of BayLoop Ventures, fostering synergies between Spain and the Nordic countries. Currently residing in Spain, she has taken on the role of Co-Director to introduce the successful Helsinki-originated startup and networking event concept, Slush, to Bilbao in February 2025. 

Suddenly Haaga-Helia

How did Elena Popovici get to know about Haaga-Helia in the first place?

”A friend of mine had studied there and was praising the teachers, courses, atmosphere – basically everything about Haaga-Helia”, she explains.  

At the time Popovici had landed a job at the Helsinki-Vantaa airport. She was interested in staying in Finland for a longer period, but didn’t know how to properly penetrate the local society and job market. While inspired by her friends’ comments on Haaga-Helia and examining the courses, she also reasoned studying might bring her some job opportunities in Finland. 

“My experience at Haaga-Helia turned out to be most transformative”, says Elena Popovici. “The studies offered a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practicality. Immediately engaging in actual projects, it allowed me to collaborate with companies and refine my teamwork skills, while interactions with industry experts enriched my understanding of business fundamentals.”

Details big and small

According to Elena Popovici, the Finnish ethos for life-long learning and improving oneself is very favorable, endorsed by a first-class adult education system. She found it remarkable that the Finnish education institutes and the “real world” communicate and exploit each other’s assets to make things better within the society.

Says Popovici: “As a Research, Development, and Innovation Project Associate at Haaga-Helia, I have been actively involved in fostering entrepreneurial awareness across Finland's capital region.”

When asked about the highlights of her studies, she has several to point out. 

“One was the simultaneous pursuit of my bachelor’s thesis and an internship at an Estonian RegTech startup. In general, Haaga-Helia stands out for its dynamic courses, such as Innovative Service Design. The exemplary faculty, with their innovative approach to teaching, ensures students derive maximum enjoyment from their studies.” 

Elena Popovici also brings out ordinary details that seldom get to be mentioned.

“The library with its inviting ambiance reminiscent of a cozy home, provides a conducive environment for learning. The dynamic atmosphere and vibrant social scene resonated deeply with me throughout my studies.” 

What would you like to say to new Haaga-Helia students?

“My time at Haaga-Helia played a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey”, says Elena Popovici. “I urge new students to seize every opportunity that the institution offers. Engage with entrepreneurship societies, embrace volunteering endeavors, and leverage brand ambassador programs to enhance your academic journey. Your time at Haaga-Helia is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about cultivating lasting connections and enjoying personal growth. Pursue your passions, immerse yourself in experiential learning.”