Bang from KRK 2025 by Koneenrakennuskilta

Bang from KRK 2025

Bang from KRK

Greetings from the Chairperson

Hi there!

Huge congratulations on getting a study place! You've made an absolutely brilliant choice by deciding to head towards the shores of Lappeenranta!

The Fresher Weeks are just around the corner, and soon you'll get to be part of our amazing crew here in the Free State of Skinnarila. The Fresher Weeks kick off on August 25th, marking the beginning of two intense weeks full of learning new things, meeting new people, and maybe even having a little fun.

But there’s no need to stress about the Fresher Weeks! The most important thing is to enjoy them in a way that feels right for you and to be brave in getting to know new friends right from the start. There are so many people, clubs, and societies here that everyone is bound to find their own crowd.

As long as after the Fresher Weeks you know how to log in to Moodle, know where your home and the university are, and have at least one new friend — you're well on your way to a great university journey!

The whole freshman year is full of rich experiences, and I personally have so many cherished memories from that time. Make the most of it! Remember, your tutors, freshman coordinator, guild board, and all the older students are here to support you — you’re not expected to know everything.

That's all from me — see you in the fall!

Samuel Mustakallio Chairperson

Koneenrakennuskilta ry

What is a Guild?

For a new university student, the concept of a guild can feel a bit unclear. At worst, it might still be vague even for a regular student who hasn’t actively taken part in guild activities. However, the work of the guild is important and meaningful. The most visible parts of the guild’s operations — parties, events, and social happenings — are just a small part of the larger mission that the Koneenrakennuskilta (Mechanical Engineering Guild) is dedicated to.

The main focus of the guild is advocating for students in the field, as well as monitoring and developing the quality of education. The guild works closely with the leadership of the degree programme to ensure that future Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering graduates are among the top of their field — professionals that companies are eager to hire.

In addition to academic advocacy, the guild also aims to balance out the stress of studies by organizing various events. Some of the most visible of these are sauna evenings, company excursions, and themed parties arranged by the guild's host and hostess. These events are a significant part of teekkari (tech student) culture in Lappeenranta. It's hard to miss a mechanical engineering student or a freshman wearing bright orange overalls in the midst of these events.

The guild also works to build strong connections between the degree programme leadership, the university administration, and various companies. These partnerships are valuable, as they can lead to summer jobs or important professional connections, which are a crucial part of today’s job market. For new students, this relationship-building is often marketed as networking, and it plays a key role not only in future employment but also in feeling comfortable and engaged in your studies.

It’s important to get to know students from your own field, but also those from other disciplines — the connections you make now may shape your future. Along the way, you might even form lifelong friendships that help maintain your connection to your place of study — Lappeenranta.

The most visible form of company collaboration can be seen in the orange overalls that YOU, the incoming freshmen, will receive during the fall or early spring. The company logos on these overalls are paid advertisements, giving businesses visibility among the top-tier future professionals in mechanical engineering. These overalls are also the most recognizable symbol of a mechanical engineering student in Lappeenranta — a group now known almost across all of Finland

Benefits of being a member of KRK

Members of KRK are able to join the guild’s email list, as well as KRK’s Telegram channel, in which information about events, job openings, and more are provided in a weekly message.

All information is also translated to English!

Additionally, members of KRK are also entitled to a free pair of orange student overalls.

How to become a member?

The membership fee is a one-time payment of 20€ and must be paid to KRK’s account (IBAN: FI93 8146 9710 2387 25 BIC: DABAFIHH).

Include your full name, municipality of residence, and the word ’Jäsenmaksu’ (Finnish for membership fee) in the payment’s message line.

For example: John Appleseed, Lappeenranta, Jäsenmaksu

Skinnarila-English-Skinnarila -dictionary

At the beginning, it's advisable to offer some translation assistance to those of you who will start your studies in the fall. This might be helpful not only for understanding the stories provided in this magazine but also when you arrive in Skinnarila and begin your studies.

Fuksi/fresher

Kiltis

FV/FC

Kekkuli

Pruju

Noppa/CR (credit)

SVV

G, gee

PK5, peekoo femma

(tiistai)saunis

Excursio, kursio, excu

Vujut

Sitsit/Sitz party

Refers to a first-year student, which will be you in the fall after completing the freshman promotion.

A nickname for the guild room, which we'll introduce later in this magazine.

Fuksivastaava (Fresher Captain), represented by Elmeri “Eppu” Oksanen (also introduced in this magazine). Eppu will guide you through next year and teach you the secrets of student culture.

A guild activist, either a board member or an official.

Lecture slides for a course, which can be either a comprehensive textbook-style work created by the lecturer or digital presentation slides.

Refers to study credits. You might hear questions like, “How many noppas do you get from that course?”

Skinnarilan VapaaValtio (Skinnarila Free State). The border between Finland and SVV runs near Punkkerimäki.

Café Bar G, located behind the university building, is the go-to spot for students.

Refers to Punkkerikatu 5, a LOAS property where sauna evenings are organized (see the next term).

Every Tuesday, guild hosts organize themed sauna evenings for students.

Bus-based company visits. They come in various flavors: short and long, with or without alcohol, and always fun!

Annual celebrations held by guilds, the student union LTKY, clubs, and other associations.

Academic table feasts involving singing, eating, and drinking.

Yolo Ylioppilastalo (Student House), where you'll find freely accessible computer labs, the LTKY office, Aalef student restaurant, and Skinnarila's own grocery store. The basement of Ylioppilastalo hosts various events.

Introduction to the KRK Board

Koneenrakennuskilta (Mechanical Engineering Guild) (KRK) is run by its board – a lively crew of 11 people who keep the guild’s circus rolling. Each board member has their own role, and you're sure to run into many of them right at the start of your studies.

The board’s responsibilities include:

1. Managing the guild’s affairs;

2. Preparing matters to be discussed in guild meetings and executing the decisions made in them;

3. Overseeing the guild’s administration and ensuring that the rules and procedures are followed;

4. Managing the guild’s assets and finances – for example, by buying the guild a snowmobile ��;

5. Establishing committees, selecting their members, and supervising their activities;

6. Monitoring the work of committees and individual officers;

7. Preparing the annual report and financial statements;

8. Drafting the annual budget and action plan;

9. Deciding on the guild’s representation in various events and bodies;

10. Convening guild meetings;

11. Maintaining the guild’s membership register.

In other words, the board makes sure that everything runs smoothly – and that everyone is having a good time!

Samuel Mustakallio – Chairperson

Hi there!

I’m Samuel, a 23-year-old guy from the jewel of Kymenlaakso — Kouvola — and this year I have the honor of serving as the Chairperson of our lovely guild. So, for the next half a year, I’ll be the ringmaster of this circus.

My journey at LUT started when I needed to find somewhere to study and mess around with machines. Thanks to some top-tier propaganda, the sunny city of Lappeenranta ended up being the chosen one! And when, to my surprise, I actually got accepted, I had no choice but to pack up my trusty Volvo wagon and head east.

It didn’t take long after the year began to realize that we've got a really awesome guild here, plus all sorts of clubs and activities — so I haven’t exactly spent much time twiddling my thumbs alone in my apartment. There’s something for everyone!

I ended up enjoying guild stuff so much that I’ve been involved for a couple of years now, and the fun hasn’t run out yet. As the guild chairperson, I focus on the bigger picture and make sure that all board members have what they need to take care of their own responsibilities. The job also includes preparing and leading meetings.

We’ll definitely run into each other early on, so feel free to stop me for a chat anytime!

Big congrats again on getting accepted — and welcome aboard!

See you in the fall!

Joel Takala – Vice Chair

Hey hey!

I’m Joel Takala, 22 years old and originally from the cradle of culture in Päijät-Häme, Heinola, where I used to tinker with small engines and ride my moped around. At first, I was planning to join the military service in Santahamina, but during my last year of high school, I decided to apply to study mechanical engineering here at Lappeenranta. While in the military, I got accepted, and I decided to try out studying here at Lappeenranta and keep the military option as a backup. I haven’t regretted that decision.

The guild’s activities were so interesting that in my first year, I took on the role of host, then continued as a course representative in my second year, and now I serve as the vice chairman.

. Elmeri ”Eppu” Oksanen – Hostess, Fresher Captain

Hey! I’m Eppu (officially Elmeri, but everyone calls me Eppu), 23 years old, and I’m the Hostess of our guild. I’m originally from Hyvinkää, a town along the railway line.

As the hostess, I organize Tuesday sauna evenings together with our host and help out the project manager with planning and running guild events.

I ended up coming to Lappeenranta because I wanted to get back to studying, and I had only heard great things about LUT and the student community here. During the joint application process, I got a spot in mechanical engineering — and I haven’t regretted it for a second. Congrats to everyone who got accepted, and welcome to Lappeenranta!

See you during the fresher weeks!

Väinö Kajander - Host

Hi!

I’m Väinö, and I work as a Host in our guild. I’m originally from Hollola, right next to Lahti, where I also went to high school. Having lived most of my life surrounded by fields, I’ve grown up around machines — I even got my first ATV when I was just 2 years old!

I ended up in Lappeenranta after spontaneously checking out study options during the final days of the application period.

As someone who loves all kinds of gadgets and machines, mechanical engineering quickly caught my eye — and I got in!

As a Host, I help organize events and Tuesday sauna evenings together with the Hostess (our other event coordinator). I definitely recommend coming to those!

Maxim Kolomainen – Treasurer

I’m Maxim, 23 years old, and I’m from JyväÄskylä (yes, you read that right).

So how on earth did I end up at the "Rannat"?

Well, I was in the army when an email popped into my inbox — “Congratulations, you’ve been accepted...” blaablaablaa... “Confirm your study place in Lappeenranta.” And here I am!

I’m about to start my fourth year in mechanical engineering and have been actively involved in our guild. I’ve been a tutor, worked in student advocacy, and now I serve as the Treasurer.

My responsibilities include things like paying and sending invoices, tracking event expenses, planning the budget, and making sure the guild’s finances are in good shape. Basically, all money goes through me :)

We’ve got an amazing crew here, and no one is left behind — so don’t hesitate to jump in and get involved.

Congrats again on getting your study place — see you in the fall!

Eemeli Kortesalmi – Advocacy Manager

Hi!

I’m Eemeli, and I’m the Student Advocacy Manager in our guild.

I’m originally from Klaukkala, and after the army (aka the state-sponsored southern holiday) and a few years in sales, I got inspired to apply to university – and here I am. I didn’t really know much about Lappeenranta beforehand, except for a couple of old hobby trips, but it’s been great so far!

As the Advocacy Manager, I work with course feedback. With that feedback, we can help improve the courses. So I basically act as a bridge between students and the university.

If you run into any issues with your courses, feel free to message me!

Samu Syysjoki – Project Manager

Hey! I’m Samu, 22 years old, and I’m the Project Manager of our guild.

I originally come from Juuka, a small town in North Karelia. I applied to LUT because I liked the idea of staying in Karelia, studying in a smaller university – and I’d heard great things about the tight community and long Wappu here. And it all turned out to be true.

I’ve always been into machines, thanks to mopeds and cars, so mechanical engineering was pretty much a no-brainer.

As Project Manager, I plan and organize the guild’s events together with the Hostess and Host – from annual galas to bar parties. I highly recommend checking out our events; they’re a great way to make friends and add something fun alongside your studies.

You’ll definitely see me around during the year, so come say hi anytime – I’m always down to chat about anything.

My own freshman year was super fun and full of unforgettable moments, so I encourage you to join everything that even slightly interests you. You’ll find friends fast – no need to spend your evenings alone in your apartment.

Welcome to Lappeen Ranta – have fun!

Oskari Väärälä – Secretary

Hello! I’m Oskari, and I come from the bustling metropolis of Röykkä, located in Nurmijärvi. After high school, I had to figure out something to study, and by chance I ended up choosing Lappeenranta and mechanical engineering.

To my great surprise, one sunny summer day I got an email saying I had been accepted — and now I’m already starting my third year here.

I quickly noticed how friendly the student community is, and decided to get involved in guild activities. Right now, I’m serving as the Secretary of the guild. My main responsibilities are writing the meeting minutes and printing them for the guild room.

So don't hesitate — get involved! Congratulations once again on your study place, and welcome to LUT

Sonja Pellikka – Corporate relations and overalls manager

Hi there!

I’m Sonja, 22 years old, and I’m starting my fifth and final year in mechanical engineering (phew). This is my second year working as the guild’s Corporate Relations & Overalls Manager.

I was born in Vantaa, but we moved to Karkkila when I was little. After I got tired of small-town life, I went to high school in Helsinki.

Back when I applied, mechanical engineering seemed like the most interesting engineering field — and I picked it as my top choice in the application. You’ve definitely picked a versatile and fascinating field that gives you a strong foundation for many types of careers!

In my free time, I go to the gym regularly, and last year I leveled up my training by getting into powerlifting — I even got to compete in my first meet this spring!

As I mentioned, I’m responsible for the guild’s partnerships with companies, and one of my most important jobs is getting sponsors for our student overalls. If you know a company that might want to advertise with us, feel free to message me or come talk to me in person! My goal is to get your overalls ready as early as possible, and if you help us by selling an ad, you’ll get 10% commission from the deal (pretty good, right?).

I also work on things like getting sponsors for our annual celebration and ordering guild merch. This role is a great way to get to know companies in our field and to build communication skills that will help in your future career.

Big congrats on your study place, best of luck starting your degree — and see you in the fall! <3

Emil Mattila – Excursion Manager

Hey!

Name’s Emil, and this year I’m the Excursion Manager of the guild. My job is to organize excursions — trips where we visit companies and explore other cities. You’ll get familiar with how it all works during the freshman excursion in the fall at the latest.

I’ve spent most of my life in Hamina, messing around with mopeds and cars, and now I’ve been here at LUT for a couple of years already. Back in high school, I decided I wanted to study mechanical engineering, and luckily, Lappeenranta ended up being the place for me.

Now I’m starting my fourth year here, and it’s been a blast so far. I’ve gotten to do all kinds of cool stuff alongside my studies, and I really recommend getting involved in as much as you can — it’s worth it!

Catch you later in the fall!

Janina Levänen – Communications Manager

Hello!

I'm Janina, born and raised right here in Lappeenranta — so I haven’t gotten very far (though I did spend some time studying in South Helsinki… also known as Tallinn, but let’s not talk about that ).

I’ve never really been sure what I want to study, so I’ve tried a bit of everything — from business to law and legal studies — and now the latest addition to the list is mechanical engineering :D

This year, I’m working as KRK’s Communications Manager, which means I’m in charge of (or at least trying my best to be in charge of) making sure you get up-to-date info about events and other important stuff — usually on Instagram or Telegram. So keep your eyes and ears open so you don’t miss anything!

If you ever have questions, feel free to come say hi or send me a message. You can recognize me by my fire truck–red hair.

Welcome to study mechanical engineering, and I hope you all have an amazing freshman year!

Introduction of the Officers

If the guild were a person, the actives would be its internal organs.

Without them, the guild’s engine would stall at the very first turn. Some of them help out at events, some work as graphic designers or capture moments as paparazzi, and some keep our beloved sauna van warm and running. They are vital to the guild's operations. Any guild member can become officer, and the role you apply for can be pretty much anything (as you’ll see from the list).

Officers of the guild in 2025:

Emil Mattila – Supreme Overlord of the Sauna Van & Hot Tub

Joona Häyrinen – Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer

Olli Lampio – Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer

Eeli Väisänen – Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer

Tuukka Malinen – Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer / Chair of Athos??

Tommi “Fabio” Suomela – Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer / Aramis??

Jasper Tulonen – Alumni Coordinator / Sauna Van & Hot Tub Officer

Miikka Huotari – Alumni Coordinator

Jasper Siintoharju – Corporate Relations Assistant

Joonas Rautonen – Corporate Relations Assistant

Jalmari Kytöläinen – Project Officer

Johannes Gråsten – Project Officer

Ville Valtteri Hänninen – Project Officer

Santtu Nieminen – Project Officer

Lauri Jokinen – Project Officer

Jesse Sopanen – Project Officer / Discord Manager

Janne Heiskanen – Tech Guy / Project Officer

Leo Seesaro – Guild Room Manager / Project Officer / Hi-Fi Enthusiast

Elmeri Oksanen – Guild Room Manager

Jussi Koivusaari – Card Games Coordinator

Lasse Salonen – Paparazzi

Martta Ikonen – Paparazzi

Saad – Paparazzi

Ali Faizan – Paparazzi / Project Officer

Kamila Rizqi – International Students’ Representative / Harassment Contact Person

Oskari Moilanen – Graphic Designer

Réka Emilia Kiss – Graphic Designer

Kasper Behm – Katjuusa Coordinator

Rasmus Laine – Sports Coordinator

Ron Fetahu – Moped Coordinator

Jarno Kiviranta – Moped Coordinator

Heikki Suhonen – Soapbox Car Coordinator

Aleksi Vehkamäki – Soapbox Car Coordinator

Leevi-Kalle Maijola – “Mersu Guy” / Project Officer

Miika Hassinen – “Mersu Guy”

Jesse Turunen – “Mersu Guy” / Project Officer

Joona Palviainen – Advisor

Veeti Salminen – TEK Guild Liaison

Elmeri Oksanen – Fresher Captain

Greedings from Fresher Captain

Hey again, it’s Eppu here!

So, I’ll be your fresher captain), or Fc, for your freshman year. I’m starting my second year in Mechanical Engineering, and my job is to introduce you to what teekkari (tech student) culture is really all about — so that by Wappu, we’ll have even more proud teekkaris among us!

Basically, I’ll be hanging around at events with you throughout the year. You can recognize me by my orange overalls and orange helmet. Feel free to come talk to me anytime or message me on Telegram at @eppuOk. If you ever have questions about studies or life in general, I’ll do my best to help you out.

My own freshman year flew by while enjoying events, and I definitely recommend all of you future freshmen to take part in them — and if you’re up for it, maybe even help organize a few! Be brave and get to know both older students and people from other fields as well! Skinnarila is full of amazing clubs and student organizations that you’ll get to explore already this fall.

Once again, congrats on your study place — see you in the fall!

HUH HAH!

Elmeri “Eppu” Oksanen Fresher Captain

Get to know your tutors

When the freshman autumn begins and a new student steps onto campus — eyes wide with excitement (or sleep deprivation, but who’s counting) — a peculiar yet essential creature appears: the tutor.

You can recognize them by the way they seem to know where every lecture hall is — or at least pretend convincingly. They can answer questions you didn’t even know you had and will guide you safely through the flood of information and events during your first weeks.

But who are these mysterious beings called tutors? Are they actually students, or just highly trained campus tour guides? In this section, we’ll introduce you to your future tutors — with names and faces.

At the start of your studies, freshmen are divided into groups, and each group will have its own tutor. But don’t worry — in case of any issues, any tutor will gladly help you out.

Without further ado, here are your tutors:

Chengzhi Ding

“Hi, I’m Clarence, from Anhui, China. I like playing video games, doing sports, gym, watching movies, playing the guitar, making friends. Favorite place for now is Singapore, favorite place in Lappeenranta is my 12.5 square meter sweet little tiny home. Don’t like drinking. Favorite activity in Fin is SAUNA with lakes nearby!”

Zhang Han

Hey everyone! I’m Zhang Han from Nanjing, China. I love climbing mountains, checking out all the different plants up there, and spotting the unique architecture around the mountain bases.

If you ever run into any issues during your time at LUT, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help however I can!

My name is Dominika, I'm 21 years old and currently a student at LUT University. I began my studies here in the autumn of 2023. I'm originally from Slovakia, from a small town called Pezinok, which is located near the capital city, Bratislava. In my free time, I enjoy singing, playing the guitar, dancing, playing badminton, and spending time with friends. One of the best parts of my time at LUT so far has been meeting amazing people who quickly became my close circle of friends. I'm really looking forward to welcoming new students this autumn and creating unforgettable memories together! :)

My name is Arda, I’m 19 years old, and I started my bachelor's studies at LUT in 2024. I’m from Türkiye. I believe that having a tutor is one of the most important things when trying to get used to a new environment. That’s why I wanted to become a tutor — to help others who were once in the same situation as I was :) In my free time, I enjoy playing basketball, listening to music, and writing.

Bhaskar Rokaya

My name is Bhaskar Rokaya, and I am currently in my second year of Mechanical Engineering studies at LUT University. For the academic year 2025-2026 autumn semester, I am honored to serve as a tutor for new students in our program.

I have a strong interest in combining technical knowledge with practical problem-solving, and I am passionate about fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for our incoming students. Having experienced the transition into university life myself, I understand the importance of guidance, community, and active participation in guild activities.

As a tutor, I aim to represent a positive attitude ensuring that the freshers of our mechanical engineering family feel informed, motivated, and inspired from the very beginning.

Dominika Holásková

Arda

Ron

Hi, I’m Ron, a 19-year-old mechanical engineering student from Kosovo. I’m passionate about engineering and have a deep love for music.

Luka Pauletic Grasic

Hello, I'm Luka Pauletic Grasic, a tutor for this year's freshers.

I'm a 3rd year mechanical engineer bachelor's student, I spend my days studying, taking exams, in mental breakdowns and sports activities.

People would best describe me as a chaotic man bear with the grace of an elephant, they would be correct.

I am happy to meet you and will do mt best to make your begging at LUT amazing.

Shoaib Iqbal Sirazi

Hei!

I’m Shoaib Iqbal Sirazi, a Mechanical Engineering student from sunny Bangladesh where “frozen lake” is not in the vocabulary. I collect watches, take way too many photos, and since moving to Finland, I’ve developed a strange love for sitting in a sauna and then jumping into ice-cold water… on purpose

Greetings from LTKY

Hey, my name is Ryan Coombes, and I recently began my master's programme in electrical engineering at LUT University after completing my bachelor's degree. I am currently on the LTKY (Student Union of LUT University) board, (LTKY acts as an advocate for all LUT students and promoter of culture and community, you’ll learn more about us throughout the year!) where my responsibilities include educational politics (kopo) and internationality, and most importantly, I am KRK's godparent!

As KRK's LTKY godparent, I primarily serve as a direct link between KRK and LTKY making sure there’s clear communication and answering questions about broader advocacy, student culture, social politics themes, and so on.

KRK is an old guild so Im always excited to see them set the example for our amazing student culture here and fresher week is an great time to get to know your guild and at the end of fresher week, when you've had enough of your tutor you get to throw them in the lake. Im also looking forward to see another year of freshers get to see what a sitsit is and sit there in disbelief at us destroying some beloved finnish tunes with our own lyrics. I encourage you not to be too concerned if some things are unfamiliar to you at first. The student culture here is strong and has a rich history, so persevering through the learning curve is well worth it once you get familiar with the culture!

Facts about LTKY

I have made many great memories here in Lappeenranta (I got called an "Unc" (Uncle) at my last wappu so my time might be up), come say hello and I might share some stories.

My contacts are

Telegram: rynopoons

Email: ryan.coombes@ltky.fi

• Represents students’ interests and promotes culture and community

• Founded in 1969

• Operates under the Universities Act -membership is automatic for all degree students

• Provides member services such as an exam archive

• Offices in both Lappeenranta and Lahti

• Follow on Facebook and Instagram: @ltky_insta

KRK’s Guildroom

Looking for a break in the middle of exhausting studies? Craving a refreshing drink and some entertaining reading? Is your left pinky toe itching? If you answered yes to two out of three, you have an incurable cancer. Sorry about that. Have a nice rest of your life.

Seriously even if you do have cancer, we warmly welcome you to the mechanical engineers’ own living room — the guild room — where you’ll find comfort and peer support. We’ll nurture you into a proper mechanical engineer and tuck you into the sweaty embrace of our leather couch.

Our beloved guild room has sofas perfect for socializing, table space for solving tricky puzzles, and room for playing the royal card game, Moska. The cozy atmosphere is maintained by cleanliness and a zen-like calm that rivals interior design magazines, with walls adorned by various memorabilia.

The music playing is a blend of the best sound waves of our time, scientifically designed in laboratory conditions to suit every musical taste.

In the guild room — or “kiltis” as we call it — you’ll often find senior scholars ready to give advice on assignments or any life questions troubling you. If you don’t have any world-shattering questions, you can freely chat about lighter topics. And if the socializing doesn’t flow, you can soothe your vocal cords with coffee offered at a reasonable price. We warmly welcome all freshmen to spend time in the guild room and boldly get to know other mechanical engineering students!

Guild’s Vehicles

And yes, we’ve got plenty of them.

The guild’s fleet includes soapbox cars, a moped, a snowmobile, and — the newest additions — a sauna van, a tractor, and a mobile hot tub.

These vehicles are maintained by dedicated guild actives, such as the moped, snowmobile, and soapbox car coordinators.

Brand and Model: Ockelbo

Year: Very old

Acceleration (0-100): Very fast

Compression Ratio: No longer recognizable

Brand and Model: Solifer SM

Year: 1974

Top Speed: 45 km/h

Acceleration due to gravity: Up to 9.81 m/s², occasionally 9.82 m/s².

Maximum Power: 1.1 kW at 4000 rpm

Compression Ratio: 7.0:1

The Solifer SM has provided unforgettable rides for female students.

Brand and Model: Downhill Cars

Top Speed: Depends on the steepness of the hill.

Brand and Model: Saunapaku (Mobile Sauna Van)

Year: 50th-anniversary gift Top Speed: Faster than walking Acceleration: Perhaps? Power: 70 hp

Weight: 4000 kg

The Saunapaku was previously owned by Lappeenranta Teekkareiden Harrasteprojektit ry but was gifted to KRK for its 50th anniversary.

Brand and Model: Katyusha

Year: 48 years ago

Top Speed: Full throttle

Acceleration: 3.2 seconds from start

Power: Approximately 1000 hp

Weight: 650 kg

Excursions and Kirkkarit

Excursions, affectionately known as “kursiot,” are a significant part of the guild's activities. Every autumn and spring, the guild organizes visits to industrial companies. These excursions provide students with insights into production processes and an understanding of how companies operate. They serve as excellent networking opportunities, connecting students with potential future employers. Early in the fall, freshmen learn about excursions during the traditional Fuksikurssio (Freshman Excursion). The content of Fuksikurssio is a closely guarded secret, and everyone must experience and witness it firsthand. We only reveal its duration in advance—typically one day.

After practicing with Fuksikurssio in the fall, we put our knowledge to the test during the legendary Kotimaan RanKka (Domestic Rankka) excursion in the spring. Rankka spans several days and culminates in the Kirkkarit (Kirkastusjuhlat) weekend. Kirkkarit, or the Kirkastusjuhlat, are annual gatherings of mechanical engineering students. All Finnish mechanical engineering guilds—ours included, along with those from Oulu, Otaniemi, Tampere, and Turku—take turns hosting these celebrations, commemorating friendship.

Rankka includes not only Kirkkarit but also multiple company visits and opportunities to explore other student cities along the way. Alternatively, it involves partying in cities that might otherwise seem devoid of life—until we arrive, that is! During Rankka, we uphold various traditions and dance the night away on the dance floors of several nightclubs. It's a spectacle you won't want to miss.

Additionally, there are occasional “pukukursiot” (formal dress excursions), where we visit companies during the day and possibly spend the evening with company representatives. A rarer treat is the Ulkomaan Rankka (International Rankka), organized every few years. .

Soapbox Car Race - KRuisinKi

WHAT!? KRuisinKi is a soapbox car race for the whole family, with no lack of speed! It is held in the Lappeenranta city center during Wappu in April. Some say it's even better than the Monaco Grand Prix and why not, it's completely free to enter!

KRuisinKi has two series: the General series and the Repair series. In the General Series, you will compete with the Mechanical Engineering Guild's race cars, and in the Repair Series you will compete with a self-built car (which is built according to the rules). The race is timed, and the fastest time will, of course, win the race.

If you are not afraid of speed and dangerous situations, and you are mentally ready to step in front of the spotlights, be grilled by the media, be recognised on the street, and of course be the winning racer, then participating in KRuisinKi is for you.The winner of both series will have their name on the prestigious KRuisinKi trophy!

Orange Overalls

Students from different study fields have their own colored student overalls, which help identify which field each student belongs to. The colors of student overalls also vary between different cities. When you see someone in orange overalls here in Lappeenranta, you know you’re looking at a fellow mechanical engineering student — or maybe someone from the business school in Joensuu… Especially during freshman weeks, mechanical engineering students are easy to spot by their overall color.

To get this most important and frequently worn outfit of student life, all you need to do is join KRK. Why? Because the student overalls are free for KRK members! Yes, you read that right. FREE, so you won’t go bankrupt buying them. Wearing the overalls, you represent both KRK and Lappeenranta’s Mechanical Engineering program.

However, our corporate relations officer and the supporting actives have a big task securing sponsors for the overalls, which often means the overalls aren’t ready until late winter. But you can help by asking potential sponsors! Sales work usually comes with a commission, and here’s your incentive: you’ll receive 10% commission of the sponsorship amount you bring in. The prices for sponsorship logos on the overalls vary between 600 and 1500 euros depending on the location and size of the ad.