From One Home to Another: My Journey Begins
Stepping off the plane in a country where I didn’t speak the language felt like standing at the edge of a vast, unknown ocean. My name is Aisha, and I’m a 21-year-old student from Malaysia, embarking on a one-year exchange program in Finland. The moment my feet touched the ground, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety—something that would become a constant companion throughout my journey. As I navigated the bustling Helsinki airport, surrounded by people speaking Finnish, I realized I was not just visiting a new place; I was about to live a completely different life for a year.
My host family welcomed me with open arms, offering a small but cozy room in their apartment in Turku. They spoke English fluently, which eased my initial nerves, but I knew I had to learn Finnish if I wanted to truly immerse myself in the culture. That first week was a whirlwind of new experiences: grocery shopping at K-Citymarket, trying to understand the Finnish concept of “sisu” (perseverance), and enduring long winter nights that lasted until midday. Yet, despite the cultural shock, there was an undeniable warmth in the way my host family made me feel at home. Their patience as I fumbled with basic words in Finnish and their willingness to share their traditions became the foundation of my exchange experience.
The Classroom Beyond Borders
University life in Finland was as different from my home university in Kuala Lumpur as night is from day. The first day at the University of Turku, I walked into a lecture hall expecting a structured class with strict attendance rules—only to find a room where students could come and go as they pleased. Professors encouraged open discussions rather than rigid lectures, and group projects were the norm. It took me weeks to adjust to this more relaxed approach, but once I did, I began to appreciate the emphasis on critical thinking and independence.
The diversity in my exchange cohort was another eye-opener. I met students from Brazil, South Korea, the United States, and South Africa, each bringing their own perspectives to the classroom. One of the most memorable discussions was during a philosophy class where we debated cultural relativism. A student from Ghana challenged my views on gender roles, while a Swedish classmate introduced me to the concept of “lagom” (the idea of not too much, not too little). These conversations forced me out of my comfort zone and made me question my own beliefs in ways I never had before.
Academically, the exchange pushed me to excel in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Finnish universities emphasize research and self-directed learning, which was a stark contrast to the memorization-heavy system I was used to. I found myself spending hours in the library, collaborating with international peers, and presenting my ideas in seminars. The sense of accomplishment I felt after delivering my first research presentation in broken Finnish was unmatched. It wasn’t just about grades; it was about growing as a thinker and a communicator.
Finding Comfort in the Unfamiliar
One of the biggest challenges of being an exchange student is dealing with homesickness. There were days when I missed the familiar smells of Malaysian street food, the sound of the call to prayer echoing through my neighborhood, and the warmth of my grandmother’s cooking. The first month was the hardest—I would cry into my pillow at night, wondering if I had made a mistake by leaving home. But over time, I learned that home isn’t just a place; it’s the people and the memories you carry with you.
My host family became my anchor in Finland. They introduced me to their traditions, from celebrating Christmas with a “joulupöytä” (Christmas table) laden with ham and carrot salad, to sauna evenings where we’d sit in silence, letting the heat wash away the stress of the day. They also taught me the importance of “talking straight”—Finns value honesty and directness, which initially came across as bluntness to me. But I soon realized that their straightforwardness was a sign of respect, not rudeness.
Beyond my host family, I sought out communities that could help me feel connected. I joined the university’s international student association, where I met fellow exchange students who were navigating the same challenges. We’d gather at cafés, share stories of our cultural mishaps, and laugh about the absurdities of being foreigners in a new land. One of my closest friends, Elena from Spain, became my partner in crime, helping me decode Finnish customs and showing me the best spots to try “pulla” (Finnish sweet bread).
Food became another bridge between cultures. While I missed Malaysian flavors, I found joy in experimenting with Finnish ingredients. I learned to bake karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies) with my host mom, and I discovered a love for “leipäjuusto” (squeaky cheese) with cloudberry jam. Trying new foods wasn’t just about taste; it was about understanding the history and values behind them. For example, Finns take pride in their “everyman’s right” (jokamiehen oikeudet), which allows everyone to roam freely in nature. This respect for nature was reflected in their cuisine—simple, seasonal, and sustainable.
The Lessons I Didn’t See Coming
Exchange isn’t just about academic growth or cultural exposure; it’s about discovering parts of yourself you never knew existed. Before my year abroad, I considered myself introverted and reserved. But living in a country where people value silence and personal space forced me to step out of my shell. I joined a dance class, where I met locals who spoke little English but communicated through movement and laughter. I also volunteered at a local food bank, where I worked alongside Finns who embodied the spirit of “sisu” by helping others without expectation.
One of the most transformative experiences was traveling. With my student discount, I explored Estonia, Sweden, and Norway, each trip teaching me something new. In Tallinn, I marveled at the medieval architecture and the cozy cafés tucked into cobblestone alleys. In Stockholm, I navigated the metro system like a pro and learned to appreciate the city’s commitment to sustainability. And in Bergen, Norway, the fjords and waterfalls left me speechless, reminding me of the beauty of the natural world. These trips weren’t just vacations; they were lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the joy of discovery.
Embracing the Unexpected
There were moments when I felt like a failure—when I misunderstood a cultural norm, when I struggled with the language, or when I missed a deadline because I didn’t fully grasp the Finnish work ethic. But these setbacks taught me something invaluable: growth happens outside your comfort zone. I learned to laugh at my mistakes, whether it was accidentally using the wrong fork at a formal dinner or freezing up during a presentation because I forgot a word in Finnish. Each stumble was a step toward becoming more adaptable and open-minded.
Perhaps the most profound lesson was learning to find beauty in the ordinary. In Malaysia, life moves at a fast pace, with constant noise and activity. In Finland, I learned to appreciate the quiet moments—the golden light of an autumn afternoon, the crisp air of a winter morning, the silence of a snowy forest. These moments taught me that happiness doesn’t always come from grand adventures; sometimes, it’s found in the stillness between them.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
As my year in Finland draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on how much I’ve changed. I arrived as a Malaysian student with a set of expectations, but I leave as someone who sees the world—and herself—differently. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for diversity, a stronger sense of independence, and a newfound love for Finnish culture. Yet, I also realize how much I still have to learn. Exchange isn’t a destination; it’s a continuous journey of growth and self-discovery.
To anyone considering an exchange program, I’d say this: Embrace the discomfort. The challenges will shape you more than the victories. Immerse yourself in the local culture, even when it feels overwhelming. Build relationships with people who challenge your perspectives. And most importantly, give yourself permission to make mistakes. It’s in those moments of awkwardness and uncertainty that the real magic happens.
As I prepare to return home, I know I’ll take Finland with me in small but meaningful ways. I’ll miss the saunas, the silence, and the sense of community that Finns hold dear. But I’ll also carry the lessons I’ve learned—lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of blending cultures. My year abroad wasn’t just about discovering a new country; it was about rediscovering myself in the process.
To my host family, my friends, and the people who made my exchange year unforgettable—kiitos paljon (thank you very much). And to anyone reading this who’s about to embark on their own adventure: Bon voyage, and may your journey be as transformative as mine.