Erasmus in Finland: Six Months in the Land of a Thousand Lakes
12 min. | 11. 6. 2025
Studying abroad brings not only new academic knowledge but also valuable life experiences. We talked to our student Chi Hieu Nguyen, who spent a semester at Laurea University, studying Business and IT.
What is studying at a Finnish university like?
It was quite similar to Unicorn University, but the main differences were that not all enrolled courses started at the same time. For example, in January I had two courses that lasted for two months, and once they were finished, new ones began. I really liked this system because I had enrolled in six courses, and studying all of them at once would have been much more demanding.
During the semester, we also received assignments that we could complete at our own pace. Of course, late submissions resulted in point deductions, but everyone could work at their own speed, which emphasized independence.
It was quite similar to Unicorn University, but the main differences were that not all enrolled courses started at the same time. For example, in January I had two courses that lasted for two months, and once they were finished, new ones began. I really liked this system because I had enrolled in six courses, and studying all of them at once would have been much more demanding.
During the semester, we also received assignments that we could complete at our own pace. Of course, late submissions resulted in point deductions, but everyone could work at their own speed, which emphasized independence.
Which course interested you the most?
All of them were interesting in their own way because I always learned something new. Even though it wasn't directly related to my field of study, in the Digital Marketing course we created a marketing campaign for a real company and eventually presented our plan directly to the company. It was a very interesting experience.
All of them were interesting in their own way because I always learned something new. Even though it wasn't directly related to my field of study, in the Digital Marketing course we created a marketing campaign for a real company and eventually presented our plan directly to the company. It was a very interesting experience.
What surprised you the most about Finnish culture?
How reserved and shy many Finns (though not all) are when it comes to speaking English, even though they speak it very well. A Finn will usually open up only at a bar or in a sauna.
What was your first impression of the country?
Peace.
Did you make new friends in Finland?
Yes, mainly with other Erasmus students, but I also stayed in touch with a few Finns.
Yes, mainly with other Erasmus students, but I also stayed in touch with a few Finns.
Was there any situation that helped you connect with other students?
Although Finns aren’t the most social people, there are plenty of events for both local and international students throughout the semester. I would highlight the first welcome party, where I met most of my classmates.
Although Finns aren’t the most social people, there are plenty of events for both local and international students throughout the semester. I would highlight the first welcome party, where I met most of my classmates.
Did you have the chance to travel?
Yes, both within Finland and abroad.
Yes, both within Finland and abroad.
How did you spend your free time?
There were various events happening almost every day during the semester. Also, since I love coffee and Finland is the biggest coffee consumer in the world, I spent a lot of time in cafés. Finland also offers a wide range of sports. Although my university didn’t offer any sports activities, I just asked around and found regular activities to join every week.
There were various events happening almost every day during the semester. Also, since I love coffee and Finland is the biggest coffee consumer in the world, I spent a lot of time in cafés. Finland also offers a wide range of sports. Although my university didn’t offer any sports activities, I just asked around and found regular activities to join every week.
Which place would you definitely recommend visiting?
Definitely Lapland. Seeing the Northern Lights with your own eyes is an amazing experience.
What would you recommend to students who are considering Erasmus in Finland?
First, I’d say that Finland might not be for everyone — it’s quite an expensive country, it’s cold, and during autumn and winter, you won’t see much sunlight.
But Finland offers easy access to nature from almost anywhere — for example, you can be in nature within 15 minutes from the center of Helsinki. Everyone speaks English, which makes life much easier, and it’s very peaceful here. That may sound a bit boring, but as I already mentioned, there are events happening every week, so you won’t miss out on student life. Overall, I’d say it’s a good mix — it’s up to you how you make the most of Finland.
First, I’d say that Finland might not be for everyone — it’s quite an expensive country, it’s cold, and during autumn and winter, you won’t see much sunlight.
But Finland offers easy access to nature from almost anywhere — for example, you can be in nature within 15 minutes from the center of Helsinki. Everyone speaks English, which makes life much easier, and it’s very peaceful here. That may sound a bit boring, but as I already mentioned, there are events happening every week, so you won’t miss out on student life. Overall, I’d say it’s a good mix — it’s up to you how you make the most of Finland.
What helped you grow personally the most?
What helped me the most was spending half a year in a foreign country, having to step out of my comfort zone and become independent. I also improved my communication skills and made lots of great friends from different parts of the world. Even just living with five roommates taught me to be patient and get along with others.
What helped me the most was spending half a year in a foreign country, having to step out of my comfort zone and become independent. I also improved my communication skills and made lots of great friends from different parts of the world. Even just living with five roommates taught me to be patient and get along with others.
Erasmus in Finland is a great opportunity to experience a different style of learning, improve your English, and create memories you’ll cherish for a long time. Studying abroad teaches you independence, helps you meet new friends from all over the world, and opens up many new opportunities. If you’re thinking about going on Erasmus in Finland, go for it — it’s definitely worth it!
