How to Make the Most of Your Time as an International Student in Finland PT 1

As an international student in Finland, you have a unique opportunity to experience a new culture and education system while pursuing your academic goals. While this experience can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to managing your time. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to make the most of your time as an international student in Finland.

Plan your schedule

Planning your schedule is crucial to making the most of your time as an international student in Finland. Make sure to take advantage of the tools and resources provided by your school, such as online calendars, course schedules, and syllabi. Use these resources to create a daily and weekly schedule that includes your class time, study time, and extracurricular activities. By planning your schedule in advance, you can ensure that you are making the most of your time and avoiding any last-minute stress.

Get involved in extracurricular activities

One of the best ways to make the most of your time as an international student in Finland is to get involved in extracurricular activities. Joining clubs and organizations can help you meet new people, learn new skills, and experience Finnish culture outside of the classroom. Look for clubs that align with your interests and hobbies, such as sports teams, language exchange clubs, or cultural organizations.

Explore the local area

Finland is known for its beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the local area. Take advantage of weekends and breaks to visit nearby cities, parks, and landmarks. Many schools offer organized trips for international students, or you can plan your own adventures with friends. Exploring the local area can help you appreciate the beauty of Finland and create unforgettable memories.

Learn Finnish

Learning Finnish can be a valuable use of your time as an international student in Finland. While many Finns speak English fluently, learning the local language can help you better integrate into Finnish culture and connect with locals. Consider enrolling in a Finnish language course, practicing with language exchange partners, or using language-learning apps to improve your skills.

Take care of your well-being

Finally, it's important to prioritize your well-being as an international student in Finland. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and a social life can be challenging, so make sure to take time for self-care. This can include getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising regularly, and taking breaks when needed. By taking care of your well-being, you can ensure that you are making the most of your time in Finland and achieving your academic and personal goals.

Take advantage of resources and support

As an international student in Finland, there are various resources and support available to help you navigate academic and personal challenges. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the services provided by your school, such as academic advising, tutoring, career services, and counseling. You can also connect with your fellow international students, student organizations, or mentors to seek advice and support.

Network and build connections

Networking and building connections can be a valuable use of your time as an international student in Finland. Attend career fairs, industry events, or conferences to meet professionals in your field and learn about job opportunities. You can also reach out to alumni, professors, or Finnish professionals through LinkedIn or networking events to expand your network and gain insights into the Finnish job market.

Embrace Finnish culture and traditions

Part of the international student experience is immersing yourself in a new culture, and Finland has a rich history and unique traditions to explore. Take advantage of opportunities to learn about Finnish culture, such as attending cultural festivals, trying Finnish cuisine, or visiting museums and historical sites. By embracing Finnish culture and traditions, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the country and connect with locals.

Practice time management and productivity

Managing your time and staying productive is crucial to making the most of your time as an international student in Finland. Make sure to prioritize your tasks and allocate your time wisely, using techniques such as the Pomodoro method or time-blocking. You can also use productivity tools such as task management apps, productivity trackers, or note-taking software to stay organized and efficient.

Have fun and enjoy the experience

Last but not least, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience of being an international student in Finland! Take advantage of the opportunities and experiences available to you, such as traveling, trying new activities, or making friends with locals and international students. Studying abroad can be a transformative and unforgettable experience, and by embracing the adventure, you can make the most of your time in Finland.

In conclusion, being an international student in Finland can be both exciting and challenging, but by taking advantage of resources and support, networking and building connections, embracing Finnish culture and traditions, practicing time management and productivity, and having fun, you can make the most of your time and have a fulfilling experience. Remember to stay open-minded, adaptable, and resilient, and you will surely thrive as an international student in Finland.

- San