Student Spotlight: Sami Laiso
While most postgraduate students at Downing study full-time, a few choose to study here on a part-time basis.
Sami Laiso joined Downing at the start of this academic year and is studying for a Master of Studies (MSt) in Real Estate, a degree by the Department of Land Economy aimed at experienced professionals at the top of their field and those identified as future leaders in the real estate industry. The course combines academic rigour with significant industry input and aims to equip participants with a broader knowledge of all aspects of the real estate industry, insight into a range of long-term themes and strategic issues in the market, as well as developing a range of research and other skills.
Originally from Espoo in Finland, he is a qualified lawyer having previously studied law in Finland with an LLM degree from the University of Helsinki, and finance and banking at King’s College London. He is pursuing his degree on a part-time basis, spanning two years. He finds the flexibility of part-time study appealing as it enables him to continue his professional career as a Supervisor at the European Central Bank while working towards his degree.
“I chose the MSt as its format allows me to continue pursuing my career while developing my knowledge with world-class academics and professionals. As such, the course enables me to build on my work experience as well as share ideas and exchange knowledge and experience with my cohort and the industry. I’ve found I’ve been able to balance my studies with my job very well.” he said.
Through his degree, Sami feels he’s developing skills and knowledge that he will be able to take into his career.
“Corporate real estate is a key topic in the banking sector. With my dissertation, which I’ll be writing next year, I want to look at how macroeconomic cycles impact the real estate markets and how the impacts spill through to the banking sector.”
Even though he lives outside of College, Sami has been able to get involved with Downing’s extra-curricular life and is an active member of the MCR Committee.
"Luckily, I have had the benefit of spending more time at Cambridge. I've had the chance to attend the great guest speaker events at Downing and utilise the university's facilities and resources. I value reciprocity and wanted to join the MCR to help and give back by contributing whenever I can."
He also has become a member of the Downing College Boat Club, despite having never rowed before arriving in Cambridge. He says he’s found this new experience to be very enjoyable and has relished taking part in competitions.
So far, Sami has found his experience at Downing to be a positive one.
“My time here has been excellent. There is such a welcoming feeling at the College and there is always a lot going on.
“You’re able to create a broad network easily and meet people from different backgrounds who are working in different areas. What makes Downing special is the strong sense of community across the disciplines and a shared desire to improve and learn more."
Published 11 March 2024