Looking back on four weeks in Finland, I can confidently say that studying abroad was one of the best decisions of not only my college career, but my life. I explored places I never expected to see, I took classes that just aren’t offered anywhere else, I met new friends from both SDSU and around the world, and I had the time of my life. So, why were there so many tears the last week?
My six-week trip through Scandinavia (finally) kicked off on May 17. I will spend the first four and a half weeks in Finland, touring Helsinki and taking courses in Jyväskylä. So far, about a week and a half in, I have thoroughly enjoyed every part of Finland: the beautiful scenery, the evident history, the unique teaching style, the list goes on. It is hard not to compare back to life in San Diego, but I am definitely finding things in Finland that are quite brilliant.
If you would have told me five years ago that I would be studying abroad in Jyväskylä I would have replied with, “Jyvasky … what”. Through the hard work and loving support of my family, friends and San Diego State, I have embarked on quite a unique study abroad journey. For four weeks I will be in Finland studying various subjects under one of the best education systems of the world. As a commuter that has never dormed, a person with dietary restrictions due to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and knowing little to no Finnish, this ought to be an eventful journey. For now, I will share what Finland has offered in my first two weeks here.
The global experience, as told by SDSU students 