Building Skills and Connections: Hongqian’s Study Journey in Finland
Hi everyone, I’m Hongqian Li from China. I’m a second-year Computer Applications student at HAMK. When I arrived in Finland in autumn 2023, I never imagined how much this journey would shape both my studies and personal growth.
Discovering Finnish Culture and Nature
Finland’s natural beauty and cultural traditions instantly captivated me. I’ve embraced local customs like alternating between hot sauna sessions and refreshing snow dips, tasting unique foods like Mämmi (a Finnish Easter dessert that looks… special—like chocolate pudding mixed with soil?) and Sima, and discovering my favorite Finnish dish—the Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto). Celebrating Vappu with flower caps and experiencing traditional Christmas gatherings have been unforgettable, like living in a storybook. Along the way, I explored cities such as Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Jyväskylä, and Lappeenranta. My favorite discovery? The Emil Cedercreutzin Museo in Harjavalta near Pori, where modern art meets 1920s Finnish farm life in the coolest way!
In the pictures you can see a highlight from the Emil Cedercreutzin Museo, first snow in 2024 and Aurora in Hämeenlinna
Surviving the “Study Shock”
Switching to English-only classes with a zero spoon-feeding teaching style was tough. But my secret weapon? A colour-coded calendar blocking study hours, Netflix time, and even drinking dates with friends! The real game-changer was learning Finnish—going from awkwardly repeating “kiitos” to casually dropping “Ei tarvii kiitti.” Scoring that HAMK scholarship for passing my A2 Finnish test was my proudest moment ever!
Sneak peek to my self-studies: Finnish Language
Hands-On Learning Experiences
Second year became my playground:
- Demola Tampere: I learned innovative product development processes while strengthening my teamwork skills.
- HAMK Design Factory: We’re brainstorming ways to make Hämeenlinna the coolest hometown you never knew you wanted.
- RUN-EU Exchange in Portugal: This experience expanded my cultural perspectives alongside my technical studies.
- SAP- “Game Changing Games 4th“: I made my first 3D game and discovered that IT can be creative — all while forging lifelong friendships!
Pictures from Demola Tampere, Game design process and my RUN-EU short exchange in Portugal
Building Community Connections
During the summer of 2024, I witnessed Finland’s stunning transformation from snowy landscapes to lush, green fields. I had the honour of working as an arrival team service specialist at HAMK, assisting new students in settling into life here—whether it was handling accommodation challenges or providing a warm welcome at the airport. This role allowed me to meet incredible colleagues and gain valuable insights into Finnish workplace culture, boosting my confidence for future employment. Currently, I’m also participating in the Taitava Rekry Project in Hämeenlinna, which helps international students find jobs and increases their chances of making Hämeenlinna their home. If I can navigate these experiences, I believe you can too!
Why Finland Feels Like Home
I am incredibly grateful for my decision to come to Finland. The serene environment—from the library-like silence on buses to the enchanting lakes and forests—and the innovative spirit of Finnish technology (did you know Linux and the Robot Framework both hail from here?) have broadened my perspective and enriched my learning experience. Finland’s calm and egalitarian culture has gradually become a part of who I am, making me more composed and open-minded.
Author:
Hongqian Li
Computer Applications student