Vera's Exchange Adventure in Finland

In the final year of my studies, I had the opportunity to join an exchange programme. After exploring my options, I chose XAMK in Kotka, a charming port city located two hours from Helsinki, Finland. Living in a dormitory with other international students? Check. Attending classes with peers from Germany, France, Italy, China, and Finland? Double check. My courses, including Intelligent Logistics, Project Management, and Logistics Service Design, were interesting - but the real magic happened outside the classroom. 

Beyond the books

This exchange wasn’t just about academics; it was a chance to step out of my comfort zone and truly get to know myself. Finland introduced me to a slower, calmer way of life. No rush, no stress - just living in the moment. I went on spontaneous trips, marvelled at natural landscapes, and learned to appreciate the world around me. 

One of the best parts? Experiencing different cultures first-hand. My German friends showed me the importance of punctuality, my Italian friends whipped up mouth-watering meals, and classmates from other countries shared unique perspectives that broadened my outlook on life. 

Exploring Finland and beyond 

When I wasn’t in class, I had plenty of time to explore Finland and its neighbouring countries. I visited beautiful cities like Helsinki, Porvoo, and Lahti, and took ferry rides to Tallinn (if you love quaint old towns, this one’s a must!). A highlight was a road trip where we rented a car and ventured into Finland’s wilderness. Imagine endless forests, glimmering lakes, and... me kayaking in sub-zero temperatures - yes, it was freezing, but it was absolutely worth it! 

The grand finale? A trip to Lapland, where I was surrounded by magical, snow-covered landscapes. On my way back home, I extended the adventure by travelling through the Baltic States and Poland, arriving just in time for Christmas. 

The adventure didn’t end there 

Here’s the best part: the friendships I made during my exchange didn’t end when it was over. With some time before my graduation placement, I decided to visit my new friends across Europe using an Interrail pass. I explored Germany, Switzerland, France, and Italy while catching up with the people who made my exchange so special. 

This experience was, without a doubt, one of the best periods of my life. I returned with lifelong friendships, a deeper understanding of different cultures, and fresh insights into my field of study. 

Why you should go on exchange 

If you’re considering an exchange programme, do it. It’s so much more than just a semester abroad - it’s an opportunity to grow, explore, and create memories that will stay with you forever.