Landing in Helsinki on a cold January morning was both exciting and terrifying. As a student from Kenya, I had prepared for the academic challenges but underestimated the cultural adjustments. Here's my unfiltered experience of the first 30 days.
Day 1-7: Arrival and Orientation
The university's arrival support was exceptional. Someone met me at the airport and helped with transportation to my dorm. The orientation week included practical sessions on Finnish culture, banking, and public transportation. I appreciated how they didn't assume we knew anything about Nordic life.
Day 8-14: Academic Adjustment
Classes started, and I was surprised by the interactive teaching style. Finnish professors encourage questions and discussions, which was different from the lecture-heavy system I was used to. The small class sizes (around 20 students) made it easier to participate.
Day 15-21: Social Integration
Making friends was challenging at first. Finnish students are friendly but reserved. The international student association organized events that helped break the ice. I joined a sports club, which became my main social outlet.
Day 22-30: Practical Challenges
The biggest adjustment was the darkness. In January, daylight is limited, and I struggled with motivation. Opening a bank account required multiple visits and specific documents. Grocery shopping was expensive, and I had to learn to cook simple meals.
What I Learned
The first month taught me patience and resilience. Finland values independence, so students are expected to manage their time effectively. The support systems work, but you need to be proactive in seeking help.
My advice: Don't compare Finland to your home country. Embrace the differences, stay connected with family, and give yourself time to adjust. The rewards of studying here are worth the initial challenges.
About the Author: Grace Wanjiku is a first-year Business student from Kenya studying at Kestora University.
About the Author: Antti Virtanen is a First-year Engineering student from Finland studying at Kestora University.
