Zahra Sasannia and Shaghayegh Hajiloo, both from Iran, began their studies in the digital industry and artificial intelligence at the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences in Kotka at the start of the year. The Master’s-level programme is taught in English.

–I’d heard that Finland is a happy country with a high standard of social welfare and highly advanced technology. Receiving a high-quality education in a country with a strong knowledge base has always been one of my goals, says Shaghayegh Hajiloo.

She already holds a bachelor’s degree, has completed other international courses and has work experience in marketing, advertising and brand consultancy in Iran. Zahra Sasannian plans to combine her previous expertise in electrical engineering with her current studies. Finland’s family-friendly environment also influenced her decision on where to study.

–I chose Finland not only because of its high-quality education system, but also because it is a family-friendly country. The wellbeing, education and future of my two children were extremely important factors in my decision, she says.

Kotka was previously quite unknown to both of them. Sasannia says she was charmed by the city’s tranquillity, nature and friendly atmosphere.

– The idea of living in another country has always fascinated me, and I wanted to experience it for myself, says Hajiloo.

Moving to a new country was accompanied by uncertainty, but the practicalities gradually fell into place. Both received support from friendly locals and from a network of Iranians living in Finland.

A modern campus and a supportive learning environment

The Kotka campus of the South-East Finland University of Applied Sciences has received praise from both of them.

–It’s brand new and modern, and it has excellent facilities and equipment, says Hajiloo.

–The lecturers are supportive, approachable and flexible. The degree programme also offers many interesting and useful courses, as well as opportunities to take part in seminars, projects and competitions, adds Sasannia.

Overall, the students’ experience has been positive, but they believe that further strengthening links with industry, internship opportunities and other connections to the world of work would support networking and the employability of international students.

Realistic expectations make it easier to adapt

According to them, before moving to Finland, it is good to know that the country offers a safe environment, stunning natural scenery and high-quality education, but the long, dark winter months and the challenges of finding work may require some adjustment. In addition, students should ensure they have sufficient savings, study Finnish in advance and arrive in Finland with realistic expectations.

Adapting to a new country is supported, for example, by the city’s integration services, projects supporting immigrants, Finnish language courses run by parishes, and practical guidance provided by the university. These make it easier to familiarise yourself with services, learn the language and build networks.

– The most positive surprise has been that immigrants aren’t left to cope with everything on their own. Finland has a good service system, a sense of community and helpful people. It encourages you to keep moving forward, says Sasannia.

She recommends, for example, visiting Kohtaamisten Keittiö in Kotka city centre, where you can meet new people and get involved in the activities there.

– The biggest challenge has been Finland’s cold winter, but you can get round that by getting the right sort of clothes, says Hajiloo.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that student accommodation may be unfurnished, which can cause practical challenges at first.

Hajiloo has been delighted by the culture of sharing second-hand and free items in Finland, which fits in well with her own values. She also encourages people to consider using a nickname in a new country if their own name is difficult for locals to pronounce.

There is a great deal of potential in international talent

Both students hope to stay in Finland after graduation and build a future here, provided they can find a job that matches their education and skills.

– International professionals bring with them valuable education, experience and new perspectives. I believe that by creating clear pathways to employment and offering immigrants opportunities to demonstrate their skills, Finland can benefit greatly from this potential, says Sasannia.

Students encourage newcomers to take an active part in events and other community activities, as these offer opportunities to learn, make contacts and get to know society.

They also consider university websites, the InfoFinland and Job Market Finland (Työmarkkinatori) services, and social media channels to be useful sources of information for newcomers.

– If you love nature, Finland is a wonderful destination. Its forests and lakes are unique and can fill a person with energy and joy. The friendliness of the Finnish people is also one of the country’s greatest strengths, Hajiloo explains.

– On the other hand, the lack of sunlight for around five months may not suit everyone, and finding work can be a challenge for students; that’s also important to bear in mind.

However, these factors have not prevented this nature-loving mountaineer from seeking out new experiences in a new country.

– When I choose a direction in my life, I want to see it through to the end and become skilled at it. I believe that without challenges, there is no real learning or growth, says Shaghayegh Hajiloo.

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