Insights Into a Double Degree Program

Finnish double-degree student Sofia Nirhamo combines studies at Haaga-Helia and MCI

Sofia Nirhamo is a student at Haaga-Helia University in Finland and has chosen to pursue a Double Degree in our bachelor's program of Business & Management. During her time at MCI, Sofia not only expanded her knowledge but also gained valuable international experiences that will enrich her academic and professional journey.

Through the Double Degree program, Sofia was able to take full advantage of the benefits of studying at two universities. “It was an exciting challenge to study at two different institutions – but that’s exactly what made it so valuable,” Sofia shared in our interview.

Professor Thomas Stöckl, Head of the bachelor's program of Business & Management, spoke with Sofia about her experiences.

What was the most exciting or unexpected experience you had during your semester abroad?

I started doing more sports than I expected and even ran my first half marathon at Lake Garda and just two weeks before I was at a fancy ball in Vienna.

Which cultural differences or challenges surprised or impressed you the most during your stay?

I loved the culture and that in Austria there are traditions like Krampus, advent markets, and festivals like Almabtrieb. Innsbruck is a small center but has a lot of interesting history and cozy cafes. I was surprised how much sausage, potato, sauerkraut, and cheese people eat, and another thing that surprised me a lot was that the stores are not open on Sundays, and they close very early, but I learned to cope with the situation.

Can you tell us about a special friendship or encounter you had while abroad that left a lasting impression?

I absolutely loved the people I got to meet during my double-degree studies, the staff at school were professional, understanding, and experienced. We spent a lot of time with the class since participation is mandatory, and I got to meet amazing like-minded people. Most people live in dorms or shared apartments, and I was lucky enough to have the most amazing roommate. People are social and kind at school and it made integration to a new environment easy and fun.

Is there any specific advice or tips you would give to other students considering a semester abroad in Austria?

I would say first learn to study in a way that works for the educational system you are in and then have fun as much as you can, make some connections, and try something new. Even when you feel homesick or tired just remember you will get home but you are here now, and it is not a long time you have in this situation.

How did your language skills develop during your semester abroad, and how did you integrate the local language into your daily life?

I had a basic knowledge of German, but there is a very specific dialect in the Tyrol region that is hard to understand. My professional English got a lot better, and I did learn some Italian. With my German friends, I learned to understand a part of what they were talking about.

What skills or insights did you gain that might positively impact your academic or professional future?

I think independence and being able to adapt to a new environment quickly are going to help me in the future. MCI taught me a whole new education system, and it was hard in the beginning, but after I had learned to learn differently it was nice.  

Were there moments of homesickness, and how did you manage them?

No not really, close to Christmas I always feel a little homesick, but my friends made me feel very happy to be in Innsbruck, and we did a lot of activities like Vienna ball season, snowboarding, hiking, food festivals, gluhwein, traveled all-around in Italy, Mallorca, and Germany  

My semester abroad in 3 words:

Exciting, learning, fun

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Dear Sofia, thank you for the kind conversation, and we wish you all the best in your studies and every success in your future endeavors!