Meet JYU alumni Maria Mustranta
The importance of studying – more than just a degree
Mustranta arrived in Jyväskylä from Espoo with the goal of becoming a journalist. Although she did not know anyone in the city at first, the journalism students quickly formed a close-knit and communal group. The Department of Language and Communication Studies in Tourula was small at the time, and the students spent a lot of time together. This sense of community created a safe and inspiring environment where professional growth could begin immediately.
At university, Mustranta didn’t just learn facts. She feels that, during her studies, she learned how to find information, think critically and comprehend what was essential from extensive material. These skills have been invaluable in her work as both a journalist and an author. She emphasises that a broad general education and information processing skills are essential in both professions – and it is precisely these skills that her university studies strengthened.
Writing studies and growing as an artist
In addition to journalism, writing studies, especially screenwriting and dramaturgy courses, were important to Mustranta. For her final project, she wrote an extensive TV script, which later helped her gain admission to the Theatre Academy's continuing education programme. Her writing studies developed her dramaturgical thinking, which she utilises in her novels and journalistic feature articles.
During her studies, Maria was able to write continuously, and this constant creative work was an important part of her development as an artist. She also mentions her years at Kallio Upper Secondary School of Performing Arts as a significant stage in the development of her artistic identity.
Student life and professional growth in parallel
Living in Kortepohja, with short bike rides to everywhere and a lively student community, made Jyväskylä feel like home, and Mustranta enjoyed it very much. During her summer breaks, she worked in various media outlets, such as regional newspapers, Iltalehti and Helsingin Sanomat. Internships began after the first year of study, giving journalism students immediate access to the field. Journalism was also a frequent topic of conversation in free time – their professional identity began to take shape early on.
After graduating, Mustranta became a freelancer, which allowed her to work on writing her novel. Her debut novel, Sokeita hetkiä (Blind Moments), was published in 2017, and since then she has worked as a full-time writer. Maria still does some journalism work, including the Sielu & ruumis (Soul & Body) column in Helsingin Sanomat.
Tips for students
Mustranta encourages students to view their studies as a holistic phase of life and to invest in social relationships. Maria herself gained lifelong friendships during her studies, and discussions with her fellow students strengthened her professional maturity.
"Don’t think about your studies in too one-dimensional a way. The time you spend with friends on campus and in the library is important, and it's worth investing in."
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Current
Maria Mustran's latest novel, Toivon talo (The House of Hope), will be published on 2 October 2025.
She will also take part in Naisten Pankki (the Women's Bank) author tour, the proceeds of which will support the Women's Bank's charitable activities. The event in Jyväskylä will be held on 27 October 2025 at 5 p.m. (Tietoniekka, Lähde library building).
