Integration is key for retention. One of the ways our platform boosts integration is by connecting students with others who share similar interests and backgrounds. It allows students to search and filter through communities and groups that are specific to their interests. By finding like-minded peers, students can form strong bonds and feel more integrated into the wider university community.

That's exactly how we use Goin' at the University of Helsinki. Increasing stay rates by increasing the number of meaningful connections between International and Finnish students.

Success stories by the students heading to Helsinki

Nino - “You cannot imagine how the Goin’ app helped me throughout this challenging time. I am really grateful for this! Information shared via Goin' can save you from making mistakes and wrong choices. Personally, I've received the perfect housing offer and the peers from Goin' played a vital role in this. To say shortly, the chance to get advice and share your experience is the most valuable thing!”

Sevil - “I wished that other universities that I've been accepted for had such an app. It's a totally student friendly app. It helped me to find like-minded people. I didn't waste my time to find my prospective classmates’ email addresses or phone numbers. I can reach them in a few seconds, which is fantastic! It made me also figure out that those people (current students, etc.) really do something for others. I feel so lucky to experience such a thing.”

Vanessa - "People are forever going to be the best resource for us when going through transitions and starting at a new place. Goin’ helps reassure me that others have the same questions and it helps me find answers to the little things that I wouldn’t be able to find out."

Guilia - "I've really liked the experience so far. It is an amazing opportunity to connect with the other students before meeting them in person and not feel lonely during all the processes before arriving. We can find other people who relate to our life as a student figuring out the whole process of moving to Helsinki and get some advice on things we might all be struggling with."

Michail - "It has helped quite a lot because you see everyone going through the same anxious process as you and you can ask a lot of questions. I have made some connections and they have been very positive."

Sara - "It's great, especially for the international students as me. It prevents any anxiety I'd definitely be experiencing at this point if I hadn't had the chance to talk to other students. I feel much more relaxed knowing I already have a bunch of people who I can meet and become friends with when I come to Helsinki!"

Their stories emulate what life is like and what can be for students when they are able to engage with each other. Struggles that would be done alone are now supported and alleviated by having someone close by, a peer, a group, or even a new best friend.  Allowing integration will ultimately improve retention as it diminishes the worries and complications that may force prospective students to disembark on their student life.

Mats Engblom: Marketing & Recuritment at The University of Helsinki - "What the Goin' platform offers is in my opinion something more than just a conversion tool for turning applicants into enrolled students. From my point of view we are investing in students feeling welcome before they even arrive on campus. We are aiming for a higher conversion but what we also want is motivated students that feel like they are a part of our community from day one. I think Goin' is one of the easiest ways to do that. In reality it's been very low effort and maintenance from our side, not just in the sales pitch."

At Goin’, we understand that the transition to university life can be challenging for many students. It's not just about studying; it's about feeling like you belong, having friends, and having a support system that helps you thrive. Our platform offers a safe, online space where students can connect, share their experiences, and get the support they need.