Kick-Off Event
The Kick-Off Event is a strictly recommended event for freshmen that they should definitely not miss. An exciting and adventurous event allows students to get to know other new freshmen and see more closely what the university's student organizations are doing. Generally, after participating in the event, the student leaves with new friends and a desire to join at least one TalTech student organization, where during their time at university they can create unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
PS! TalTech student looks beforehand the weather and dresses comfortably. They either leaves the evening party clothes at home or pack them to be ready.
Student Body's Birthday
On the first of October, TalTech's student union celebrates its birthday, and as part of the celebrations, Student Union organizes a festive reception every year. TalTech employees, representatives of student organizations and also representatives of students of other universities will be present at the party. The reception will feature traditional live music, TalTech culture collectives and a gorgeous birthday cake.
The reception also includes the distribution of student decorations, which is the largest recognition of the Student Union for former student representatives, who have left an important mark on student life.
Decorations are the highest awards of the Student Union, created to recognize outstanding individuals who have contributed to the benefit of the Student Union and whose activities have had a great positive impact. The decoration is the biggest recognition of the Student Union for an individual. The decorations are awarded in the following categories: Bronze decoration or Mission Medal, Silver Decoration and Golden Decoration.
Golden decoration "FIDELIS STUDIOSUS"
The highest award of the TalTech student body, which is given to an outstanding and exemplary person who has earned exceptional merits in front of the TalTech student body. The award of a gold decoration shall be decided by the Board of Representatives on a unanimous proposal of the Commission.
Silver decoration "FIDELIS STUDIOSUS"
The badge is awarded to a person who has set an example for the TalTech student body by his or her activities or who has earned great merits in his or her field or organization in front of the TalTech student body.
Bronze decoration or Mission badge "FIDELIS STUDIOSUS"
The badge is awarded to a person who has long-term contributed to the activities of TalTech's student body and has set an example for others by its actions.
The decorations have been divided over time as follows:
Large decoration (gold) "Fidelis Studiosus" - issued 10 times.
Decoration (silver) "Fidelis Studiosus" - issued 64 times.
Mission badge (bronze) "Fidelis Studiosus" - issued 53 times.
Mental Health Month
In October, the TalTech Student Union focuses on mental health, inviting both students and staff to take time for themselves, acquire practical self-care skills, and engage in meaningful discussions with like-minded participants.
As part of Mental Health Month, Meeleturgutus offers lectures, workshops, and various activities throughout October, supporting the maintenance of mental well-being and helping participants better balance both mind and body.
Lecturers’ Gala
In November, a formal lecturer recognition event, the Lecturers’ Gala, is held at TalTech, where students express their gratitude and appreciation to lecturers who have served as inspirations, role models, and supporters throughout their studies.
During the gala evening, up to two lecturers from each faculty receive recognition and an honorary badge. In addition, lecturers from the colleges are recognised in a separate category. Lecturers are awarded the silver honorary badge “Fidelis Professor”, which they may wear with pride and which symbolises dedication and professionalism.
- Toomas Tamm (School of Science)
A lecturer whose classes turn intimidating and complex subjects into something understandable and even enjoyable. He creates a clear structure, guides students step by step, and helps them find their way through theory, calculations, and complex concepts. He encourages students to think, ask questions, and analyse, and actively uses student feedback to ensure that each lecture is even better than the last. What makes him especially inspiring is that his teaching is never dull. His explanations remain scientific in essence but are never overly dry. A true master of both teaching and his subject matter, he is always ready to help, explain, and support—until learning feels more like a conversation with a good friend than an encounter with abstract science. - Sander Kanter (School of Science)
Sander Kanter is highly approachable, genuinely interested in his field, and has an exceptional ability to engage students. He enjoys discussing a wide range of topics with students, whether related to the subject matter or beyond—it all matters equally to him. He is always interested in students’ ideas, experiences, and observations. He strongly believes that the best way to learn is through hands-on experience and firsthand observation. He has organised numerous field trips for students to quarries, mines, and tunnels, and has repeatedly taken students to the Mäemaja laboratory, where they can physically build tunnel ceilings and conduct experiments themselves. His excursions are particularly memorable due to his extensive knowledge—and even when he encounters gaps in his knowledge, he openly acknowledges them and turns them into learning opportunities. He is always present and genuinely invested in students’ success. His courses are consistently among students’ favourites, with excellent attendance. - Loore Magus (Estonian Maritime Academy)
Loore Magus is an outstanding lecturer whose contribution extends far beyond her immediate courses. Her professionalism, attentiveness, and sincere interest in students’ development have created a trusting and motivating learning environment. She serves as a role model both in terms of professional dedication and human support. She has repeatedly demonstrated exceptional initiative and care—helping students find internship placements, assisting with applications, and offering support even in matters beyond her formal responsibilities. She is an inspiring figure for students, whose encouragement and positive attitude build confidence and spark deeper interest in the field. Her approach makes students feel that their development and well-being truly matter. - Eduard Brindfeldt (Estonian Maritime Academy)
Eduard Brindfeldt is supportive and motivating toward students and actively encourages them to ask questions. His dedication and positive attitude create a safe learning environment that inspires students to put in effort and perform at their best. He uses diverse and creative teaching methods, integrating practical examples and discussions into his lectures. This approach effectively connects theory with real-life situations and keeps students actively engaged. He is a true expert in his field and deeply committed to his profession. - Kristjan Pilt (School of Information Technologies)
Kristjan Pilt stands out for his sincere dedication and attentiveness. He prepares thoroughly for every lecture, incorporating practical experiments and fostering discussions that help students genuinely understand the subject matter. He responds to students quickly, always finds time for supervision, and is willing to adjust his schedule to better support them. His professionalism is further demonstrated by his conscious effort to develop his presentation, technical, and lecturing skills, which he applies with great mastery in the classroom. He enriches his teaching with modern digital solutions and always approaches students with a positive and supportive attitude. - Jaanus Müür (School of Business and Governance)
According to students, boredom simply does not exist in Jaanus Müür’s classes. His lectures and seminars are consistently well-structured, creative, and engaging. He presents course content in a way that makes students feel actively involved and often invites guest lecturers, adding further diversity to the learning experience. He is not a traditional lecturer but one who teaches creatively and openly. Young and inspiring, he serves as an excellent role model for an academic career. He is deeply committed to teaching and learning at TalTech and is widely regarded as a student-friendly and genuinely enjoyable lecturer whose classes students are always happy to attend. - Moonika Nikitina-Kalamäe (School of Business and Governance)
For Moonika Nikitina-Kalamäe, student development and high-quality education are truly matters of the heart. She stays constantly up to date with developments in financial accounting, continuously improves her skills through training, and creates learning materials that are current, clear, and rich in practical examples. Her courses are logically structured and easy to follow, with thoroughly prepared materials and complex topics explained in a human and accessible way. She is an enthusiastic and inspiring supervisor who encourages students to find answers independently while bringing warmth and professionalism into every class. Her dedication creates a learning environment where students feel supported and valued. There is no doubt that her thoughtful and inspiring guidance has influenced many students’ career choices—including the decision to study accounting in the digital age. - Eneli Liisma (School of Engineering)
Although attendance at her lectures is not mandatory, the lecture hall is always full on Friday mornings—a testament in itself. Eneli Liisma prepares her lectures thoroughly, linking theory with real-life examples that make learning meaningful and practical. She actively encourages students to participate, ask questions, and engage in discussions, creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. She provides thorough answers to students’ questions and is always ready to support their studies. She speaks honestly and directly about the realities of the field, helping students form realistic expectations. Her genuine care makes students feel valued not as numbers, but as learners whose development truly matters. - Ivar Annus (School of Engineering)
Ivar Annus creates a relaxed learning environment where students feel comfortable contributing to discussions. He uses unique and innovative teaching methods, such as exit tickets or brief reflection moments at the end of class, which help students consolidate what they have learned and deepen their understanding of the course material. - Egge Haiba (Tartu College)
There are lecturers who pass on knowledge—and then there are those who pass on skills, confidence, and a genuine joy of learning. Egge Haiba belongs firmly to the latter group. In her lectures, students do not simply listen; they learn how to think, analyse, and truly understand. Every student feels genuinely cared for in her classes. Her door is always open, and she finds time to listen and offer advice even on the busiest days. Her lectures are thoughtfully structured, enriched with real-life examples, and designed to be student-friendly, turning complex topics into something practical and understandable. She is also active beyond the classroom—supporting student initiatives, supervising projects, and offering reliable advice. Students describe her as strict but fair, demanding yet supportive, professional yet deeply human.
- Jasper Adamson
The previous academic year was Jasper Adamson’s first year of teaching. He quickly learned from student feedback and adapted his approach to meet students’ needs. It is clearly evident how much effort he puts into involving every student—addressing each one personally, creating individual connections, and providing thorough and supportive feedback on every assignment. As a specialist in his field, Jasper is deeply committed to teaching and inspiring the next generation of professionals. His dedication is further demonstrated by his willingness to teach at the Ida-Viru College, despite the long and time-consuming commute from Tallinn and the general shortage of lecturers in the region. - Andrus Räämet
Andrus Räämet has an exceptional ability to make even the most complex topics in engineering sciences simple and understandable. Dedicated and enthusiastic about his field, he genuinely cares about students, actively engaging them in discussion and critical thinking. His use of humour creates a special atmosphere in his classes, making the learning process enjoyable and memorable. - Paavo Kuuseok
Paavo Kuuseok is one of the few lecturers who can explain complex and abstract topics in a clear and accessible way, making even challenging subjects understandable for everyone. His lectures and breaks are often enriched with excellent humour, adding lightness and joy to the learning process. Students describe him as an understanding and helpful lecturer who is always ready to assist. - Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk
Maarja Grossberg-Kuusk is a cheerful, warm-hearted, and approachable lecturer. She delivers lectures, supervises project courses, supports academic writing, and supervises master’s theses. She stands firmly behind her work, whether it involves successfully running a programme or caring for student well-being. Maarja has also shared her expertise through interviews and podcasts, both at TalTech and beyond. She always makes time to listen to students and takes immediate initiative when improvement proposals arise. Even in her free time, she gladly participates in course social events or congratulates graduates, demonstrating genuine care and dedication. - Jaan Varik
Jaan Varik has the remarkable ability to explain even the most complex theorems clearly and comprehensibly. His dedication, tireless work ethic, and supportive attitude deserve true recognition. His lectures are consistently engaging and informative, offering students both academic support and additional learning materials. Jaan teaches with heart and a strong sense of mission, making him an inspiring and caring lecturer for students. - Ago Luberg
Ago Luberg is a caring and attentive lecturer who consistently shows interest in students’ well-being and asks whether they are facing difficulties or concerns. He is never harsh and is exceptionally accommodating—always available and quick to respond. Ago actively listens to student suggestions on how to improve or enhance teaching. His motivating approach encourages students to put in greater effort, making his classes highly anticipated. - Innar Liiv
Innar Liiv provides students with individual and detailed feedback, helping to maintain high levels of motivation. He is always available when assistance is needed and explains complex topics clearly and understandably. His courses equip students with practical skills that are genuinely useful in their future careers. Innar’s goal is not to create a difficult course, but one that truly rewards the effort invested. - Kristjan Jasinski
Kristjan Jasinski is a lecturer whose charisma and presence inspire students to strive for their best results. He guides students in the right direction while giving them the freedom to explore and develop their own interpretations. This approach makes learning meaningful and independent. He serves as a role model both as a person and as a leader, offering valuable lessons on both a professional and personal level. Kristjan’s energy in the classroom is invigorating, and his teaching methods are playful yet thoughtful and strategic, creating an inspiring and effective learning environment. - Kristjan Liivamägi
Kristjan Liivamägi has an exceptional ability to keep students engaged throughout an entire lecture and is always ready to answer even the most challenging questions. He teaches through real-life examples, integrating practical wisdom that makes learning applicable and easy to implement. The knowledge gained in his classes can be immediately used in real life, adding significant value to the learning experience. He is so highly regarded among students that even after completing his course, students continue to attend his lectures unofficially to gain insights and knowledge not found in textbooks. - Evelin Reiljan
While all lecturers are experts in their fields, only a few can present material in a way that is engaging from start to finish. Evelin Reiljan has the ability to captivate students throughout even long lectures. She shares relevant examples from her own experience, clearly illustrating why the topic matters and how it can be applied in practice. Evelin creates a welcoming and open atmosphere in her classes, where everyone feels comfortable asking questions, sharing opinions, and participating in discussions. Her inspiring and motivating approach encourages students to put in greater effort and sparks deeper interest in the subject matter. - Jaanis Priimets
Jaanis Priimets has a genuine passion for teaching and approaches it with great enthusiasm. He is knowledgeable across multiple fields and applies an interdisciplinary approach to his courses. He skillfully connects theory with everyday practice and the skills required in future professions, making the learning process meaningful, practical, and highly relevant.
TalTech Students march to Toompea
February 24 is the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. Students have always been the ones who have been celebrating their country's independence day. It has become a tradition to go to Toompea to see the hoisting of the Estonian flag at sunrise. It can be -25 degrees outside, but students are always present. TalTech students also have such a tradition, where they all march together to Toompea with flags and singing songs. Later, students will go together to a pub in the Old Town, where the celebration will continue.
The Best of the Year
The Student Union organizes the Best of the Year competition once a year in the spring. The title has been created with the aim of recognizing the most prominent students and activities of the students in their field during the year. Through public recognition, setting an example and valuing actions, active students and student organizations are motivated to undertake and implement more activities. The title of Best of the Year is awarded for the actions of the previous calendar year.
The Best of the Year titles are awarded in the following categories:
- Student of the year
- Student Organisation of the year
- Student act of the year
You can find more information in the Statute of the Best of the Year.
More information:
Lisette Johanson - lisette.johanson@tipikas.ee