Satu Moberg – A Dedicated Student Counsellor

Satu Moberg has been part of the University of Gävle since 1997—a long and eventful journey marked by change and development. Despite having had the same position since she started, the variety of tasks has made every day feel like a new challenge for Satu.

As a team leader for support and guidance and a student counsellor, Satu has been involved in several projects aimed at improving students’ opportunities. One of the most meaningful assignments she's undertaken is to broaden participation in higher education.

“A consistent theme in my work has always been to explore how we, as a higher education institution, can best support our students,” she says.

Over the years, she has worked on identifying and implementing measures that enhance students’ experience and provide them with better chances of succeeding in their studies.

Job satisfaction and continuous learning

For Satu, job satisfaction is strongly linked to continuous learning. Working to improve the University's introduction days and welcome ceremonies for new students is a continuous effort.

“The most stimulating part is that I’m always learning something new. The introduction day is a project that is continuously evolving and improving. The project is challenging, but also gives me a lot of energy,” Satu says.

Satu is particularly passionate about long-term projects, such as the introduction week, as they offer the chance to make a real difference for new students.

“Having the opportunity to work long-term on such projects gives me the feeling that I’m truly contributing,” says Satu, with a clear sense of pride in her voice.

“I Love the Environment”

When Satu applied for a job at the University of Gävle, it felt like a natural choice. She already had a relationship with the University, having studied there herself, and she already knew many of her future colleagues. She was also attracted by the opportunity to work in an environment with short decision-making processes and great potential for development.

“I saw a job ad on the Public Employment Service’s website and thought it sounded interesting. Since I was already familiar with the University and some of my future colleagues, it felt like an obvious choice."

Satu describes the working environment at the University of Gävle as pleasant and welcoming, both in terms of the physical surroundings and the internal work culture.

“I love the environment, both inside and out! Riding my bike through Boulognerskogen to work every day is a real treat,” she says.

But it’s not just the beautiful surroundings that make Satu enjoy her work. The work culture at the University is characterized by close contact between employees and managers, and she feels she has significant influence over her work.

“It’s easy to reach my line manager, and it’s easy for me to get things endorsed when needed. I have a great deal of autonomy in my job, and that’s a big reason why I enjoy it so much,” she says.

A sense of community enhances the work environment

As a member of the staff association, Satu is committed to supporting a better work-life balance among her coworkers. By organising activities such as beach volleyball, birdwatching, and poker nights, she contributes to a strong sense of camaraderie and a positive work atmosphere.

“It’s important that we do things that aren’t just about work. It strengthens the sense of community and contributes to a better work atmosphere,” she says.

Photo: Anna Sällberg
Text: Stina Lilja