ÅAS is the Student Union of Åbo Akademi University. In accordance with Finnish law, all students of Åbo Akademi University are members of the Student Union. The Student Union has approximately 5,000 members, in Åbo (Fi. Turku) and Vasa (Fi. Vaasa). The interests of 5,000 students result in a wide spectrum of activities, and therefore the aim of the Union is to link its members to promote their civic, social and intellectual aspirations. But apart from social activities the Union also plays an active role in the workings of the University. Through student representatives, selected by the Union, students take part and influence the decisions of various administrative committees and boards at all levels of the University.