Finnishness wasn’t something I looked for. I never imagined I would end up in Finland—first for work, then for studies. But destiny had other plans. And now, looking back, I realize how much this country and its culture have changed my life.
One of the first things I noticed in Finland was the strong sense of individualism. People here live independently, respect personal space, and value self-reliance. At first, this felt isolating. But over time, I came to see its beauty: it taught me how to prioritize myself. In a way, Finnishness helped me find my own voice and strength—how to take care of myself first before trying to care for others.
Nature also plays a huge role in Finnish life. I’ve learned to appreciate the forest trails, the lakes, the silence. There’s a deep respect for the environment here. It’s not just about being outdoors—it’s about feeling part of something quiet and peaceful. That connection to nature brings calmness to the fast pace of life.
Then there’s the light. Summers in Finland can have almost 22 hours of sunlight. It’s magical, uplifting, and full of energy. But winters… winters are tough. The darkness can feel heavy, even depressing. But going through those long winters has taught me resilience—and also how to truly treasure light when it returns.
One major part of Finnishness that really surprised me was the education system. It felt very different from what I was used to. Instead of just focusing on theory and exams, I felt the system was trying to help me grow as a person. It wasn’t just about knowledge—it was about preparing me to be a part of the world. Back home, education often felt like freezing time—just sitting still and absorbing facts. But here, it feels alive. It’s about action, about learning by doing, and about connecting with real life.
Another gift Finnishness has brought me is friendship. I think about how easily I could have missed these meaningful relationships if I had stayed in my comfort zone. Before the job offer, I knew nothing about Finland. But taking that leap led me to people I now consider close friends—people who made me feel at home in a place that was once completely foreign. I truly adore the friendships I’ve made here. I feel lucky to have met them, and I carry a lot of gratitude in my heart for these connections.
Now that I’m here, I want to make the most of this opportunity. I hope I can take this 1.5-year journey seriously—both in my studies and in how I live in Finland. I want to fully embrace this chapter of my life. I’ve grown to appreciate not just the beauty of this place, but also the mindset—especially the entrepreneurial spirit I see in many Finns. That spirit makes me believe that I, too, can take initiative, dream big, and make a difference.
Finnishness, for me, has become a mirror and a path. It reflects who I am and who I can become. And maybe, through this experience, I can bring something back to the world—something meaningful, grounded, and truly mine.
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