From curiosity to circular thinking – Sanikaa Gaur built a strong foundation for a career in sustainable business at LAB
Originally from India, Sanikaa Gaur was searching for a bachelor’s programme in Europe that would connect sustainability with practical skills and real-world relevance. Her motivation came from a genuine interest in global challenges.
“When it came to finding a suitable bachelor programme, all I knew was that I was interested in sustainability, having seen firsthand how it impacts people’s lives and how critically important it has become for the world.”
She came across LAB’s programme during her search and recognised the fit immediately.
“As soon as I read the description, I knew this was the one for me.”
The multidisciplinary structure of the studies turned out to be one of the programme’s key strengths. By combining technical subjects with environmental and business perspectives, the programme helped her form a broad understanding of sustainability.
“The programme covers a variety of courses from CAD and 3D modelling to environmental legislation, enabling me to understand the broader picture and have knowledge in all sectors.”
She also emphasises the importance of the study environment and approachable teaching staff in supporting learning.
“I’ve met such wonderful teachers at LAB who are not only knowledgeable but also very friendly and patient. They felt more like my friends.”
Learning about sustainable development through practical experience
A central part of Gaur’s studies was working on real-life assignments that connected theory to practice. Through different projects, students worked on concrete cases for companies, which helped in understanding complex systems and decision-making in sustainability.
“I thoroughly enjoyed projects where we had to work for an actual case. It gave us freedom to understand and tinker with real-life problems and ask for expert advice.”
These projects included business plans, audits, quality checks and life cycle assessments. They were all relevant skills for working in circular economy and sustainable development.
Alongside practical learning, the programme also strengthened academic capabilities. Over time, writing and analysing research became a natural part of her skillset, culminating in her thesis process.
“Writing my thesis is perhaps the biggest competency that I gained from my bachelor’s. I realised that throughout the programme I had been readying myself for this.”
Flexible study programmes to develop international skills for the European labour market
According to Gaur, one of the defining strengths of the programme is its flexibility. It allowed her to explore different themes within sustainability while maintaining a manageable workload.
“The curriculum flexibility was perhaps the best part. It allowed me to explore what topics I was inclined towards while keeping the workload manageable.”
In addition to studies in Finland, Gaur expanded her international experience by participating in two intensive exchange weeks. These periods provided new perspectives and complemented the international learning environment at LAB.
An important part of her development was also learning to work in intercultural teams and understanding different working cultures. A course on intercultural awareness helped her reflect on these aspects more deeply.
“It really shaped my thinking in a different, more inclusive way.”
“It showed me insights on the European working market and its people and work ethic – a valuable asset.”
Stepping outside the comfort zone during internship
Gaur’s studies also included a remote internship connected to the LAB Biofine project. The experience gave her first insights into working life in the field of sustainability and applied research.
Although the experience was positive overall, it also required stepping outside her comfort zone.
“I really enjoyed my remote internship experience, even though I’ll admit I felt a bit nervous at the beginning. It was my first proper job in the field.”
During the internship, she worked on a variety of topics, including biomass research in Asia, identifying relevant organizations and analyzing fertilizers and regulatory frameworks across regions. Presenting and defending her own work was a particularly important learning experience.
“Presenting my findings was valuable. I had to defend my research and show its relevance. They were supportive, but it was still a new and challenging environment.”
Interest in circular economy shaped plans for future career
Her thesis work helped clarify her future direction. While she had already been interested in circular economy, the research process deepened her understanding and guided her next academic step.
“My thesis influenced me. Although I was already interested in circular economy, the research that I did prompt me to look at sustainable business as a master’s.”
Looking ahead, Gaur wants to continue building expertise in circular economy and sustainable business. Her long-term goal reflects a broader shift in how sustainability is seen in working life.
“In the long run, I want to work on solutions that make sustainability not just a choice or an obligation, but the default way of doing business.”
Based on her experience, Gaur encourages future students to make active use of all aspects of their studies – not only coursework, but also international and collaborative learning opportunities.
“Stay curious and open-minded. While technical skills are necessary, intercultural experiences, group projects and exchange opportunities shape you as much as the coursework.”
She also highlights the importance of mindset in sustainability:
“Sustainability is not just a subject. It’s a mindset. If you carry that mindset into your work, you’ll always find meaningful opportunities.”
And finally, she reminds students of one simple but important thing:
“Don’t hesitate to talk to your teachers – they will guide you in the best possible way.”