Hi, my name is Lena, and I am studying at WSG University. In the previous semester I had an amazing chance given by WSG University, Laurea University of Applied Science (Finland) and of course Erasmus+ programme to study in Finland. My exchange started in the beginning of January 2024. At that time, it is pretty cold in Finland and temperature sometimes can reach even -30°C. I highly recommend taking with you very warm clothes especially jacket, boots and gloves. Before going to Finland, I recommend contacting with “Laureamko” – it is a Laurea’s student organization that is responsible for organizing different meetings and provides tutors for exchange students. Tutor can pick up you from the airport, tell a little bit about Finland and Finnish people/culture and give you the most essential information about housing and public transport in Helsinki.

When it comes about housing in Finland students can find a flat/room on their own or send a request for apartment/room to HOAS. HOAS is a foundation for students housing in the Helsinki Region that provides a apartments/room for students. I recommend finding an accommodation by using HOAS because this is the cheapest option. HOAS owns dormitories that are in Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa. After receiving an accommodation proposition from HOAS student can accept an offer or reject. If the student rejects HOAS will not send more offers. All needed information you can find on HOAS webpage (in English) https://hoas.fi/en/. Dormitories are in good condition.

Laurea has unique method of teaching – students are learning by developing. There are not a lot of exams. To pass the course student must pass all the assignments. Laurea places importance on independent work or teamwork. What I liked the most about Laurea is the teacher and student are equal. You can always ask a teacher for advice or help.

Finland and especially Helsinki has a lot to offer to students. There are a lot of museums, islands to explore and sport activities. You can go to the ice hockey match or visit Finnish national parks. I highly recommend travelling to another cities to see how Finland looks like. Especially I recommend going to Lapland, which is organized by Laureamko. Lapland has all the essence of Finland – cold weather, snow, northern light, sauna, beautiful landscapes and Santa Claus. There is a chance to see northern lights – is a very beautiful phenomenon.

When it comes to Finnish people, in my opinion they are pretty open and don’t mind socialising. Of course, they will not kiss you in checks or hug you on the first meeting, but they like to spend time with other people, especially when they get to know those people better.

My exchange semester in Finland was absolutely fabulous. I met many new people, explored Finland, got to know Finnish culture and language and had a chance to see how Finnish university of applied sciences works.

Once again kiitos paljon (“thank you” in Finnish”) WSG University, especially International Affairs Office, and Laurea UAS for this incredible opportunity to study in Finland.