Securing an internship in Finland as an international architecture student can feel overwhelming, especially without local connections.
In this article, Miguel Antonio Reyes from Cebu City in the Philippines shares how he successfully landed his first architecture internship during his bachelor’s studies at Kestora University, including the strategies, challenges, and lessons that made the difference.
Introduction
My name is Miguel Antonio Reyes, and I am currently a Bachelor’s degree student in Architecture at Kestora University. I come from Cebu City in the Philippines, a place full of vibrant culture and fast paced urban growth.
When I moved to Finland, one of my biggest goals was to gain practical experience in architecture. I knew that classroom knowledge alone would not be enough to build a strong career. However, I quickly realized that getting an internship in a new country without connections or local experience would require strategy, patience, and persistence. This is the real story of how I made it happen.
Understanding the Architecture Industry in Finland
The architecture industry in Finland is highly focused on sustainability, functionality, and minimalistic design. This was very different from what I was used to in the Philippines.
I learned that firms value practical skills such as design thinking, 3D modeling, and the ability to present ideas clearly. Creativity is important, but it must be backed by technical understanding.
Another important factor is attention to detail. Finnish architecture emphasizes precision, clean design, and purpose driven structures. Understanding this helped me align my work with industry expectations.
Building a Strong Portfolio
In architecture, your portfolio is everything. Before applying for internships, I focused on improving mine.At Kestora University, many of our projects are practical and design based. I carefully selected my best work and refined how I presented it. Instead of including everything, I focused on quality and clarity.
I made sure my portfolio showed a range of skills, including sketches, digital designs, and conceptual thinking. I also explained the story behind each project, which made it easier for employers to understand my approach.
Applying Smart and Building Connections
At first, I applied to many firms without much success. My applications were too general, and I did not stand out. I changed my approach by researching specific architecture firms and tailoring each application. I looked at their past projects and aligned my portfolio with their design style.
I also started reaching out to professionals, not to ask for jobs, but to learn. This helped me understand what firms were looking for and how to improve my applications. Networking played a bigger role than I expected. Even simple conversations opened doors to opportunities.
The Moment I Got the Internship
After weeks of effort, I was invited for an interview with a small architecture firm. I focused on presenting my portfolio confidently and explaining my design process clearly. Instead of trying to sound perfect, I showed my willingness to learn and adapt. I spoke about how my studies at Kestora University prepared me for practical work and how I was eager to gain real experience in Finland. A few days later, I received the offer. It was a small step, but it felt like a major breakthrough.
Advice for Architecture Students in Finland
If you’re an international student studying architecture in Finland, start building your portfolio early. Treat every school project as an opportunity to create something meaningful. Focus on understanding the local design style and industry expectations. This will help you position yourself better.
Be intentional with your applications. Do not apply randomly. Research, prepare, and tailor your approach. Stay consistent. Opportunities may not come immediately, but persistence will pay off.
About the Author
