Studying in Finland: A Journey to the Heart of Nordic Culture

Discoveries between ice hockey, national parks, and international exchange

A semester abroad offers students a unique opportunity to not only expand their academic and linguistic skills but also immerse themselves in a new culture. The exchange semester in Finland was an unforgettable experience in this regard. Jana Heilmeier and Oliver Hermann share their impressions, highlights, and tips for anyone planning a similar adventure.

Why Finland?
Choosing Finland was an easy decision for us: we wanted to experience Nordic culture and Finland’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The idea of enduring Finland’s cold winters while improving our English skills was as appealing as the chance to explore a new education system. The fact that the university is a partner institution of our home university made organizing the exchange easier and reinforced our decision.

Our Favorite Course: In Vivo Imaging
We were particularly excited about the “In Vivo Imaging” course. It provided practical applications for many theoretical concepts from earlier semesters. It was thrilling to see our prior learning come to life. Additionally, the Finnish language course was a great asset, allowing us to learn the basics of the language. This not only helped us navigate everyday life but also deepened our understanding of Finnish culture.

A Typical Day in Our Student Life
Our daily routine in Finland was diverse. After lectures, we enjoyed an affordable and delicious lunch at the cafeteria—only 2 euros for a complete meal. Afternoons were often filled with leisure activities such as subsidized sports courses or social events in the international dormitories. These dormitories became central hubs for meeting students from around the world, offering regular parties and event nights where we made many new friends.

Travel and Cultural Experiences
Finland and its surrounding regions offer countless opportunities for travel and exploration. Here are our top recommendations:

• Trips to Lapland or the Lofoten Islands: Organized by the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), these trips are perfect for experiencing the stunning nature and culture of Finland and Norway.
• National Parks and Local Attractions: Visits to national parks or landmarks like the Puijo Tower and the Wooden Tower are a must.
• Ice Hockey Matches: Watching an ice hockey game in Kuopio was an unforgettable highlight.
• City Trips: Day trips to Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, or Tallinn offer rich cultural and historical insights.
• Local Experiences: A visit to the Hanna Partanen bakery and a BBQ at one of the many grilling areas—where firewood is always available—complete the experience.

Tips for Future Exchange Students
Finland is an exceptionally student-friendly country with many discounts for students. The Finnish student culture is unique, characterized by student unions and colorful overalls that represent different fields of study. Here’s our advice:

• Start looking for accommodation early: Apartments from Kuopas are ideal. The Katiska dormitory, in particular, is highly recommended—it’s affordable, quiet, located directly by a lake, and surrounded by nature. It also provides great opportunities to connect with international students.
• Transportation and Mobility: The city and university are well-connected by bus, making daily life convenient.

Conclusion
A semester abroad in Finland is an experience that enriches not only your academic journey but also your personal growth. Finland’s unique culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for students looking for an unforgettable exchange semester.