Why Finland?

Do you know it is estimated that International students constitute about five per cent of the total student enrolment at higher education institutions in Finland? Suddenly, they seem to be everywhere! From private parties, clubbing to classroom activities you will likely encounter an international student randomly.

International students usually cluster within their own community, making it easier for them to create their own group. Only on (relatively) rare occasions will you find a cluster of Finnish and international students during a social meet or gathering.

In general, there are two kind of international students, the exchange students and the degree students. To be more melodramatic, this category can be divided into three sub-groups: The first group is what I like to call the "rockers". The party types who are easily noticed at any campus event or social gathering. They take studies quite laxly and are relatively undisturbed by deadlines (except itÂ’s a must). The second group is the ones I refer to as "The Blues": The ones who are more interested in accumulating credits. They are preoccupied with beating course deadlines and are rarely involved in parties and clubbing. The third group and my personal favorites are "The Funkers". They have found the formula for partying and studying at the same time. Sounds unbelievable but these ones manage to submit their course work on time (or a day or two later) after having fun. They fit perfectly into the saying that "all work and no play make Jack a dull boy".

Many Finns frequently ask, Why Finland? And what are international students really interested in, when they come to Finland? Is it travelling, the sauna, partying, jobs, studying or romance? What lures them to this Nordic delight?

As an international student myself, I have many times been asked by my Finnish friends, “Why Finland?" Each time I’ve replied - why not? According to a survey report by the Center for International Mobility (CIMO) in 2003, self development is the main motive why students go abroad; many students who choose to come to Finland were more attracted by it’s exotic, modern nature and fame in education. Albeit, for most exchange students, Finland was put as a second choice but for degree studying students the case might be different.

There are many things which can capture an international studentsÂ’ interest in Finland. The most important being studies. I asked a couple of international students in AIESEC (an international studentÂ’s organization involved in leadership development and exchange) what other activities engage their interest.

According to some response, social events like parties and clubbing are usually a hot spot for international exchange students. Travelling (especially to Lapland), engagement in hobbies and sauna sometimes provide them an escape from studies. On the other hand, degree students are sometimes more involved in study activities rather than the fun parts (probably because they stay longer in Finland). Dating and romance as an interest comes as a concomitant to all the other points (itÂ’s never pre-planned).

It doesnÂ’t matter if they are degree or exchange student, study geeks or party freaks, international students know how to enjoy studentsÂ’ life in Finland.

MacDonald Oguike
The Columnist is a student in a
MasterÂ’s Degree programme in
Educational Leadership at
the University 0f Jyväskylä