From chemistry student to research and development specialist
My path toward chemistry was not clear and straightforward from an early age. As a child, I was convinced that I would become either a figure skater or a teacher. During lower secondary school, I became interested in business studies, and at the beginning of upper secondary school, I was fairly certain that I wanted to study medicine. Because of that, I focused heavily on science subjects.
During my second year of upper secondary school, I gradually started considering chemistry as a study option. I realized that I was genuinely interested even in everyday chemical phenomena, such as why bubbles begin to appear in a glass of water that has been sitting at room temperature. I must also give credit to my chemistry teacher, who knew how to make the subject engaging and interesting. After my chemistry matriculation examination, the decision was practically made. My grade earned me a free pass to University of Jyväskylä.
The university provided an excellent foundation for an aspiring chemist, and I soon discovered that my interests were leaning toward analytical and organic chemistry. While working on my master’s thesis, I had the opportunity to take part in a very interesting national collaboration project called PlastLIFE, aimed at advancing plastics circularity in Finland.
Eventually, it was time to start looking for a suitable job. At that point, the reality of the job market hit hard, and finding the right position was not as easy as I had expected, especially as a recent graduate. Fortunately, things worked out well, and before long, I found myself interviewing for a position in Centria’s Chemistry and Bioeconomy team. What especially attracted me to the role was its focus on recycling and the circular economy, an area in which I had long hoped to build my career.
Although I am still at the beginning of my career as a chemist, I have already come to realize that becoming an expert is, above all, about continuous learning, asking the right questions, seeking information, and working together with others to find answers.
My first week at work was exciting and a little nerve-racking, but it was made much easier by how welcoming, helpful, and friendly everyone was. The first few months were largely spent learning the job and adapting to working life in general. I became familiar with a variety of software, instruments, and laboratory equipment. Thankfully, not all the new things I encountered were complex technologies, as I also had the chance to get to know many new colleagues!
Now, after six months, I can confidently say that I have learned a great deal and grown in many ways. I have gained experience in project work, communication, and the use of various analytical methods. Although I am still at the beginning of my career as a chemist, I have already come to realize that becoming an expert is, above all, about continuous learning, asking the right questions, seeking information, and working together with others to find answers.
The constant evolution of the field of chemistry is inspiring because there is always something new to learn and new opportunities to innovate!
Reetta Mattila
TKI-asiantuntija
Kokkola