International Student Forum/ Message Board

Hello, I am an Australian student who has been offered a scholarship to study at the university of Helsinki in early 2009.

Although this is a really good opportunity, I feel really scared about it. I'm still in first year (although at the time of my exchange, I would be in my first semester of second year) and only just settling into university life here (I moved interstate for university). I also have friends and a boyfriend here and I don't want my relationship to change with any of them, and I know my parents would be really negative at the prospect of my leaving the country for 5 or 6 months. I am definitely leaning towards going though, I just feel extremely nervous about it, I haven't actually told anyone yet.

My other worries are practical. I was wondering if there was anyone who has lived in Finland who can give me a realistic picture of what it's like to live there (especially in the winter!) as well as my costs of living. I know roughly the costs of airfares and accommodation, I'm just wondering about costs beyond that like books and food and souvenirs and so on. I have been to Europe before (though not Finland) and I observed that everything was rather expensive and I doubt my scholarship ($7,600 Australian) will cover everything. Also, is it easy for exchange students to organise things like accommodation or is it a lot of work?

I also do not know any Finnish whatsoever. This is okay, because I can take courses in English, but these will all be masters level courses. I'm wondering how tolerant the natives will be at my lack of language proficiency (I mean, I know many people in Finland know English very well, but would they be like the Dutch and not worry much about it, or more like the French who expect you to make an effort? I'd make an effort anyway, I was just wondering about it).

Thanks.

Hi!

I haven't been been to Helsinki or Finland..but I have several finnish friends who came to my CSU (California State University)...but we all know that Europe isn't cheap. Since it's the Capital, it would be a bit expensive. I know that if you like seafood, it will cost more over there.

Here's what I know about Finn's so far by hanging out w/ them. They're very nice people. But, I don't know how life in Australia is, but in California, or the bay area, where I live..it's common to smile and say hi to everyone. In Finland, forget it! It's uncommon, and my friends have told me people will look at you crazy. Ha ha. But just be prepared for those akward moments of silence.

Almost everyone speaks or knows english, so I don't think you would have a problem. It would be nice to learn finnish, but just learning some words were kind of crazy for me..crazy as in funny. In my opinion, whenever I hear the finnish language, it's like their singing to eachother. If you have any other questions or doubts, I can have my friend e-mail you or something.

But, I think you should take the opportunity to study abroad! It'd be a great experience! I'm actually going to study abroad in France for a year.. nervous but excited!

I hope this somewhat helps! Best of luck!

I agree.
I have NO idea about Finland, but yes being the capital it probably is more expensive. I would look into the scholarship more. Are you paying your University in Australia for tution or Finland? What is the health insurance going to cost? How much will the scholarship cover, and what will need to be paid out of pocket (don't forget about the exchange rate difference!!)

I know the feeling about leaving the boyfriend and not wanting to leave. I just left for Germany in July for an entire year. Just when things were picking up for us. If you two were truly meant to be together, he will wait for you and it will work out. For me, we left it as an open relationship and will see how things go when I get back to the U.S. and if each of us is not dating. This is due to staying together was not an option even considered.

Yes, my parents knew about it, and they are not happy with my decision. This is also the first time I am away from home and without any help. However, my parents are now supportive seeing as I was just about to leave, and they know this was important to me. I knew no one when I arrived and the language is proving slightly more difficult than planned when obstacles get in the way.

So my advice: tell your parents, discuss the options with them. Tell your boyfriend, decide what you will do if you leave and how this or that might affect the relationship. Be honest. This is a once and a lifetime opportunity! But do think of all the options and problems you may come to face. Think realisticly. Talk to others and maybe your advisor to see if this is a good opportunity. Prepare yourself before you go. Learn about the politics, the region, the history... it will help you know more about what you're getting into and will help with what to expect. If you think you can handle the financial strain and problems set by loans and it turns out to be a great experience, go for it!! I'm glad I did, even if the U.S. dollar is horrible compared to the Euro.

Good luck, and the decision is ultimately yours, don't let others persuade you if it's what you truly desire. Also the hardest thing about leaving was saying goodbye and what to pack.