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At the Iisalmi campus of Savonia University of Applied Sciences, the Multipro study program offers a unique opportunity for international and Finnish students to collaborate and learn together. This program brings students from various countries to study in fields like agriculture, nursing, and social services. It serves as an excellent platform for sharing knowledge, promoting Finnish culture, and expanding understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

This year, the Iisalmi campus is hosting 15 Multipro students, representing a diverse array of countries including Slovenia, France, Kosovo, and Austria. Twelve of these students are enrolled in the Natural Resources program, while three are studying Social Services. The program is not only a way for students to expand their knowledge but also to broaden their horizons through firsthand interaction with peers from around the world. The Multipro students come from diverse backgrounds thanks to the Erasmus+ program. The study program lasts 90 days, and depending on their individual study choices, students can earn anywhere from 15 to 30 ECTS credits.

The students arrive in Finland early in January, giving them a unique chance to experience a Finnish winter firsthand. They can engage in activities such as skiing, ice skating, ice fishing, and even ice swimming—experiences that are both exciting and deeply tied to Finnish traditions. As a special welcome to the students, the very first ones who arrived this year were treated to the magical sight of the Northern Lights, a quintessentially Finnish experience that made their arrival feel even more memorable. Finland certainly knows how to give a warm welcome to its international guests, and the Multipro study program is a shining example of how education can transcend borders, fostering a sense of global community and mutual learning.

A Community of Support and Connection

The sense of community is strongly fostered through various activities. Savonia’s tutor students play a key role in welcoming the exchange students, organizing social events like parties and other gatherings to ensure the students feel at home and connected. Additionally, teachers take an active interest in the students’ integration, often inviting them to participate in their own hobbies, further enriching the cultural exchange. On a day-to-day basis, tutor students assist the Multipro participants with school-related matters, making the transition smoother.

The first week of the program is always quite busy and filled with introductory activities. Students undergo orientation sessions, register for Savonia’s accounts, and familiarize themselves with tools like Moodle, which helps in navigating the academic environment. The week is also marked by a welcoming party, giving everyone an opportunity to meet and mingle in a relaxed setting.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

For the first-year agricultural students, the program provides the chance to learn alongside the Multipro participants. All joint lectures are conducted in English, and the students also have opportunities to visit farms and businesses as part of their practical learning. In February, they will embark on a study trip to the northern parts of Finland, further enhancing their academic and cultural experience.

Discovering Finland

Before coming to Finland, their expectations were largely shaped by common clichés that many foreigners have about the country. They were eager to discover the real Finland beyond these stereotypes. In terms of their studies, they anticipated a demanding academic environment, but also one that offers a rich variety of teaching methods. For some of the students, the reality of Finland and its education system aligns with their expectations.

Let’s see where the next steps of their Finnish adventure take them!

Author:

Seela Piippo, trainee in MultiPro programme

seela.piippo@savonia.fi

Agnieszka Laherto, International Coordinator Iisalmi Campus

Agnieszka.laherto@savonia.fi