20.5.2024

Finland: The most peaceful and secure nation ever

My name is Mpho Kotlolo, and I originate from South Africa. I went to Kuopio in early April of 2023, which was my first international trip. I knew I was in a new country when I heard the cabin crew proclaim “Tervetolua” as soon as I landed at Kuopio airport. But I was excited to see the snow, so I wasn’t afraid. I stepped outdoors as soon as I landed at Kuopio airport to experience snow for the first time in my life and to feel it with my own hands.

21.6.2023

The longest dream I’ve ever had

I’m Carla, and I’ve spent my whole life in this small city in Catalonia. Since I was a kid, I’ve always had this desire to live abroad for a while. So, as a microbiology student in Barcelona, I got this chance to do an Erasmus program for my final year. I picked Finland cause I wanted something completely different, and Finland is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, innovative education system, and unique culture. So, off I went!

25.5.2018

My favorite Finnish words. An incomplete guide to my perfect time in Joensuu

Moi (hello)! Approaching the end of my stay in Joensuu a lot faster than I would like to, it is time to recap and tell you about all the great experiences I have made in Suomi (Finland) during the past four months. And while I must admit that my language skills in Finnish are still […]

3.5.2018

A land of hidden gems

Before coming to Finland, I’ve had a few conversations about what’s it like there in the far north. People’s opinion were different  and I came to a conclusion that I’ll either hate it or love it. And I was right. To be honest, for the first few weeks, the dark, wind, cold and the process […]

18.4.2018

More than perfect Finland (Joensuu) experience :)

It was my first visit to Finland and it started in Helsinki with such nice and unobtrusive Nordic design where ever you take a look. The train ride from Helsinki to Jounsuu, then, was a very nice opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Our first meeting at UEF started as it was written there really: […]

17.4.2018

Pitch your way to the peak and ski down with the money!

Last week I had the pleasure to travel to the beautiful city of Tahko where I attended the Tahko Ski Lift Pitch  in order to support my colleague Anna in representing UEF (one of the event’s main sponsors). Organized for the second time this year, the event brought together young and promising entrepreneurs and their […]

16.4.2018

Vappu on tulossa: Portraits from the Breathless Zoo of the Nature

Although photos are meant to be understood around the world without the need for words, please allow me to cover up a bit the title of this post. I have always desired to live somewhere with four actual distinct seasons and although at this high-latitudes the longest and several months long is the winter, Savo is […]

19.3.2018

Bikes, Dogs and Sauna

Bicycles were first introduced in Germany during wood and iron age, when “dandy horse” has been introduced in 1817, as a two wheels, with no pedal, however it required accurate balancing by the rider. Since then it have been versatile functions: recreation, work, military, show, sport, tourism, etc. and now we are in „hybrid bike” […]

16.3.2018

The happiest country on Earth

Finland, a young but strong country, is a land with vast distances and with a population of around only 5 million. It is not so rich in natural resources, however after the 70’s the country has seen a very impressive growth in various sectors including economy, culture and education, as well. As a results of […]

13.3.2018

Hyvää, Kaisa!

If you happen to be in Joensuu during the spring term, and if it happens to be a year in which the IBU Worldcup takes place in Finland, experiencing the cheerful atmosphere of a Biathlon race in Kontiolahti is an entry on everyone’s bucket list you cannot miss. Even if you are not a big […]