Study Abroad Adventure in Finland and Witnessing the Ethereal Northern Lights

If someone had told me a year ago that I would find myself on a study abroad adventure in Finland, I would have thought they were joking! However, as I pen down these words in my final week of exchange, I can confidently say that this unexpected journey has been one of the best decisions of my life.

Independence Day in Helsinki

Helsinki, Finland – a city adorned with mesmerising northern lights, an abundance of saunas, blankets of snow, and a vibrant university culture – what more could one ask for? I find myself immersed in my studies at the University of Helsinki, delving into law through my elective subjects. The exchange program at the Faculty of Law is FLAWLESS. The orientation week provides endless support, strategically placing each student into a tutor group. This week is a blend of acquainting yourself with the university (and a lot of partying!) I made lots of friends during this period, a luxury not universally experienced in other universities, making me extremely grateful for how well-designed the exchange program is. The university’s affiliation with the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) seamlessly integrates an array of events such as parties, weekend trips, and meet-ups. With just a touch of initiative, forging connections and making friends becomes effortlessly accessible, thanks to the diverse and enriching opportunities provided by ESN’s vibrant social calendar.

Weekly Dinners with my Friends in our Flat

Dissimilar to UTS, I am studying 6 subjects whilst in Helsinki. Do not let this fool you though, I have found the workload to be a LOT less than that of UTS (and my grades are a lot better too!) The tutors are all really lovely and happy to help exchange students out. I have really enjoyed studying at the University of Helsinki, it is so organised, structured and has amazing facilities. Lunch for students at the university is only 2 euros!!

Oh, and let me tell you about the University’s magic touch in sorting out accommodation – an absolute BLESSING (through HOAS or UniHome)! I must admit, I went into full stress mode pre-exchange, analysing every nook and cranny of potential accommodation at universities for exchange, especially with Europe’s notorious accommodation crunch. But behold, the accommodation application process for Helsinki is so well organised, and get this – a mere 300 euros a month! Living in a building of 400 other exchange students (HOAS) has been very cool. Corridor parties every weekend have been so fun– yes, a bit loud, but who cares when you’re having that much fun. And when security inevitably kicks us out, the city night life awaits!

Being the gateway to Europe, Finland has allowed me to spend numerous weekends exploring European countries (Spain, Italy, Greece, Denmark, Sweden, Portugal, Netherlands, England, Poland, France….. You name it and you can get there easily!) I was also fortunate to spend 2 months before my exchange backpacking around Europe in Summer which was a great way to kick start my time abroad. However, equally enjoyable have been the weekends spent in Helsinki with my fun and fantastic international group of friends. I’ve found an amazing bunch of friends through this experience, and they’re definitely sticking around for the long haul. I am extremely grateful for this experience allowing me to build connections with people I otherwise would never have crossed paths with. Some of my best friends are now people I have met on exchange. Life has a way of introducing you to the most amazing people when you least expect it.

Halloween Party Organised by the ESN Network

Travelling within Finland too has proven to be as incredible as journeys to other European countries, if not surpassing them!! My trip to Lapland in Northern Finland emerged as the highlight of my seven months in Europe, surpassing even trips to Italy, Greece, and Spain!! The visit to Santa’s village, witnessing the ethereal Northern lights, engaging in skiing and husky riding, and simply immersing myself in the winter wonderland created memories that I couldn’t recommend enough. The trip was organised by the university (google timetravels if you want a look) which made it completely stress free. Bucket list trip for sure!

The Northern Lights in Lapland Finland!

Celebrations after the Helsinki Student Midnight Run

My exchange in Helsinki has still presented its challenges. The city, in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Sydney, exudes a quieter ambiance with less constant activity (and is very cold and dark). However, I’ve grown to appreciate this disparity, as I will never experience anything like it. 

If you’re in the dilemma of picking a university and country for your exchange, I’m throwing in my vote for Finland. Sure, it’s not the typical choice, but trust me, you’re in for a ride of a lifetime, and zero regrets. I’ve got lifelong friends now, and looking back, I’m pretty proud of myself for taking the plunge and choosing a spot not many Aussies venture into. It’s the kind of challenge that’s worth every bit of the adventure.

As I prepare to bid farewell to this chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the lessons learned, friendships forged, and the unparalleled experiences that have shaped this remarkable adventure.

Please reach out if you have any questions, I am always here to help!
Charlotte.C.Kearney@student.uts.edu.au

Charlotte Kearney
Bachelor of Law and Business
Spring 2023 session at University of Helsinki, Finland