📆 2023-08-17
📍 Finland
The chilly northern lights danced above the frozen lakes as I embarked on a new chapter of my life. As an IT student, I decided to view the world from a different perspective, and thus I found myself in the enchanting land of a thousand lakes: Finland. Hämeenlinna, a city steeped in history and surrounded by pristine nature, became my home during my Erasmus adventure. I am thrilled to share my unforgettable experience at HAMK University, my encounters with inspiring people, and the enriching journey through Finnish culture.
One of the most memorable aspects of my Erasmus experience was meeting other Erasmus students. In a world far from my familiar surroundings, I found unexpected friendships and bonded with like-minded souls from around the globe. Our diverse group included Erasmus students from France, the Netherlands, Brazil, Poland, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, and, of course, Belgium. Together, we explored the unspoiled wilderness of Finland, culminating in an awe-inspiring trip to Lapland, where we were captivated by the enchanting beauty of the winter landscape. During this trip, unforgettable memories and strong friendships were forged, including a special bond with another Belgian I met there.
In addition to exploring Finnish nature, I immersed myself in engaging academic experiences at HAMK. With passionate fellow students, I worked on projects that challenged us to push our boundaries and let our creativity flourish. One of the most notable projects the Biomass project, a project that aimed at collecting data with a 3d camera for information gathering and analysis. This project was a great learning experience that allowed me to apply my skills in a real-world setting and collaborate with talented peers. the project can be found on github
Throughout my time in Finland, I delved deeper into the rich and fascinating Finnish culture. I was immersed in traditions and customs that gave me a deeper understanding of life in the land of saunas and Moomins. From enjoying the local cuisine to experiencing traditional festivities, each experience helped me understand and embrace the soul of Finland.
An aspect of my Erasmus adventure that struck me was the diverse climate of Finland. Unlike the mild climate in Belgium, I was immersed in the powerful seasonal changes of Finland, from the enchanting brightness of the summer sun to the magical snow landscapes of winter. It was a refreshing change that offered me new perspectives and made me realize how much beauty lies in the diversity of nature.
Besides my academic commitments, I also explored some of Finland's most enchanting cities. From the bustling streets of Helsinki to the charm of Tampere and the cultural heritage of Lahti, each city offered a unique perspective on the country and its people.
My Erasmus adventure in Hämeenlinna, Finland, was a journey that changed my life forever. It was more than just an academic exchange; it was a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and adventure. The lessons I learned, the memories I cherish, and the friendships I made will stay in my heart forever. To anyone dreaming of an unforgettable experience abroad, I can only say: seize the opportunity and go for it. The adventure awaits you!
My Erasmus experience in Finland was a period of growth, adventure, and unforgettable moments that I will always treasure. It was a journey that helped me broaden my horizons, make new friends, and get to know myself on a deeper level. To anyone dreaming of a similar experience, I encourage you to take the leap and go. It is a journey that will change your life forever.