Life in Finland and Studying at Laurea

Through degree programmes designed to support both personal and professional growth, Laurea provides practical integration paths, from tailored internships to Finnish language support, ensuring students can confidently pursue future career opportunities in Finland. 

In this article, we’ll provide a realistic view of what life in Finland is like and how Laurea supports your integration into both the academic world and Finnish life. From understanding the local culture to practical tips for settling in, we aim to give you a comprehensive picture of what to expect and how to make the most of your time in Finland. Whether you’re coming from India, Vietnam, Nepal, or China, the Finnish way of life offers a rewarding, enriching experience for those open to embracing new challenges.

Finnish Culture: What to Expect

Finland is a country rooted in strong traditions and unique cultural values. To help you transition smoothly, here’s what you should know about daily life and interactions with locals.

• Honesty and Directness: Finns are known for their straightforward communication. This doesn’t mean they are unfriendly; rather, they appreciate getting to the point without unnecessary small talk. Expect conversations that are direct but respectful, whether in social settings or classrooms. You’ll quickly learn that honesty is highly valued, and people will appreciate your openness.  Laurea students have noted that this direct communication style is especially useful when working in Finnish companies, as it helps build mutual trust and transparency from the start.
• Punctuality Matters: In Finland, being on time is not just polite—it’s expected. Finns view punctuality as a sign of respect for others’ time, and being late without prior notice can be seen as inconsiderate. This cultural trait extends beyond formal meetings to casual social events. As a student, make sure you’re always on time for your classes and appointments. This respect for punctuality is also emphasized by the teaching team, who encourage students to maintain time management skills to succeed both academically and professionally.
• Sisu – The Finnish Resilience: One of the most cherished values in Finnish culture is sisu. This term reflects inner strength, determination, and the ability to push through tough times. Finns take pride in facing challenges head-on, whether it’s enduring the long winter months or overcoming personal obstacles. This mindset will be beneficial for you as you adapt to a new country and navigate your studies. At Laurea, students learn to embody sisu through real-life projects that challenge them to develop resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills in collaboration with Finnish businesses.
• Respect for Nature: Nature is an integral part of Finnish life. Outdoor activities like hiking, berry picking, and spending weekends at summer cottages are common pastimes. Finland’s vast forests, lakes, and national parks provide an ideal setting for connecting with nature, and you’ll find that most Finns cherish this connection deeply. Take advantage of Finland’s green spaces—it’s a great way to relax and bond with locals. We encourage students to explore Finnish nature and we even organize events that allow students to experience traditional activities like forest hikes, helping students connect with both Finnish culture and their peers.
• Love for Saunas: Almost every household in Finland has a sauna. This is not only a place for relaxation but also a social space where people gather and unwind. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to a sauna with friends or even colleagues. It’s considered a sign of trust and friendship, making it a key part of Finnish culture.

While the Finnish way of life might seem reserved at first, you’ll soon discover that beneath the quiet exterior lies a culture that values deep, meaningful relationships and a balanced lifestyle. By embracing these values, your experience in Finland can be both enjoyable and fulfilling. Laurea students frequently highlight these values as enriching their personal growth and helping them succeed in a new environment, both in and out of the classroom.

Integrating Into Finnish Society

Adjusting to life in Finland involves more than just adapting to a new climate or figuring out daily routines. It’s about becoming part of a community and finding ways to feel at home. At Laurea, we understand the challenges that international students face, and we aim to make your integration into Finnish life as smooth as possible. Here are practical steps to help you thrive in your new environment.

1. Learn Basic Finnish: While many Finns speak English, learning the local language will make your experience richer and more rewarding. Understanding Finnish can help you in everyday situations, from reading signs to navigating public transport. Joining a language course also provides opportunities to meet fellow students and locals. Several Laurea students have found that even basic Finnish skills give them an advantage when applying for internships and part-time jobs, as it shows commitment to local integration and opens up more opportunities.
2. Join Social Events: Finland has a lively calendar of annual celebrations that offer a perfect way to connect with locals and experience Finnish culture firsthand. Celebrations like Juhannus (Midsummer) and Vappu (May Day) are excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in Finnish traditions. These events bring people together in a festive spirit, and by participating, you’ll feel more connected to your new community. Laurea organizes various events to introduce international students to these Finnish traditions, providing a friendly, guided experience that helps build familiarity with local customs.
3. Engage in Hobbies: One of the best ways to integrate into Finnish society is by participating in activities that align with your interests. While many Finns enjoy sports such as football, hiking, and cross-country skiing, there are plenty of other ways to connect. Finland has a vibrant arts scene, with opportunities to join music groups, art classes, or photography clubs. If you have a creative side, you can explore pottery workshops, writing circles, or theatre groups. Whether you’re interested in sports, arts, nature, or cultural activities, Finland offers a wide range of hobbies to explore and share with others. We encourage students to join these local clubs and we provide support through campus events that introduce various hobby options, allowing you to find a community that matches your interests.
4.  Attend Language Cafés: Another great way to practice Finnish and meet new people is by attending language cafés or informal meetups. These gatherings provide a casual environment where you can improve your language skills while engaging in conversation with locals and other international students. You’ll find these events in cities like Helsinki, and many are hosted at local cafés or community centers. Laurea partners with local organizations to guide students to these language cafés, helping you practice Finnish and gain confidence through regular, friendly conversations.
5. Explore Public Spaces: Finnish public libraries, like the Oodi Library in Helsinki, are more than just places to borrow books. These spaces often host community events, study groups, and cultural activities. Spending time in these public areas will help you integrate into the social fabric of Finnish life, whether you’re studying, attending an event, or simply relaxing. Laurea students often use these libraries as study spaces and for group projects, benefiting from the rich community resources and even joining library-organized activities that encourage socializing and cultural exchange.
6. Sauna Culture: The Finns love for saunas is real! Embracing sauna culture is a must when living in Finland. It’s not just a place to relax but also a key social activity where people bond. Accepting invitations to the sauna is a great way to build connections with Finns, whether it’s with classmates, colleagues, or friends. Students are often introduced to sauna culture as part of social gatherings and team-building activities, allowing international students to experience this unique Finnish tradition and connect with peers in a relaxed setting.

By taking these steps, you’ll not only adapt to Finnish society but also build meaningful relationships that will enhance your overall experience in Finland. Laurea is committed to helping you through every stage of your journey, from academic success to social integration. 

Studying at Laurea and Preparing for the Job Market

At Laurea University of Applied Sciences, academic excellence goes hand in hand with preparing students for life after graduation. Whether you’re focused on developing your professional skills or building a network within Finland’s industries, we provide the tools and opportunities to support your career journey. Our students consistently emphasize that the university’s practical approach to learning has helped them gain confidence and essential skills, making their transition into the job market smoother.

Work-Life Balance

One of Finland’s most attractive qualities is its emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The typical workday ends around 5 p.m., and weekends are reserved for personal time. As a student, you’ll find that this balance allows you to focus on your studies while also enjoying your personal life. This cultural norm is particularly valuable as you juggle academic responsibilities and social integration.

Laurea promotes this balance, encouraging students to set aside time for self-care, social activities, and exploration, which many international students find refreshing and beneficial.

Internship and Employment Opportunities

Laurea is committed to giving students practical experience through real-life development projects and internships. These hands-on opportunities help you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Through key partnerships with companies across different industries, Laurea connects students with potential employers, ensuring that by the time you graduate, you’ll have a clear understanding of the Finnish work environment and have the skills to thrive in it.

Many Laurea students, like Nikolas Kapali, have successfully secured internships through these partnerships, which have provided essential industry exposure and often led to long-term employment opportunities after graduation.

Finding a Job

Finland’s job market offers numerous opportunities for international students, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and startups. Platforms such as LinkedIn and Duunitori are commonly used for job hunting, and Laurea provides guidance on how to navigate these resources. By registering with TE-palvelut (the public employment services), you’ll also gain access to job search support tailored for international students. Additionally, Finland’s reputation as a startup hub opens doors for those interested in entrepreneurship.

Laurea’s career services offer tailored support for international students, helping them with job application techniques, building a local network, and understanding the specifics of the Finnish job market. Many students appreciate this guidance as it makes the job-seeking process more approachable.

Conclusion: A Bright Future in Finland

Moving to Finland for your studies is not just about earning a degree—it’s about immersing yourself in a culture that values education, innovation, and a strong sense of community. At Laurea, we are here to support you every step of the way, from helping you adjust to Finnish life to guiding you toward your career goals. By understanding and embracing Finnish culture, making the most of Laurea’s resources, and building connections within the community, your time in Finland can be incredibly rewarding.

With a focus on personal growth and professional readiness, Laurea graduates leave with not only an education but a network and skillset that position them well for a successful career in Finland or internationally.

Take the next step—explore Laurea’s degree programs today and begin your journey toward a fulfilling academic and professional life in Finland.

Check our courses in English