Student Spotlight: Ann West in Finland

Describe a moment where you experienced culture shock. How did you navigate it?

”There honestly was not much of a culture shock for me. I came into this exchange with a lot of pretty conceived notions about the people that would be here, but after getting familiarized with the culture in the people here, I realized that they aren’t so different from me. Sure, they have different beliefs and ways of living, but so does everyone. I didn’t find anything to be super shocking, besides the lack of diversity which I expected because this is Finland. The population is very homogeneous.”

How have you experienced community in your host city or school?

“I have experienced wonderful community while being in Finland. Everyone is so kind and super eager to help and make my experience here as wonderful as it is. I was in Norway for a week, and I needed someone to watch my cat because I brought him with me. There were people from the university and local friends that I’ve met who were willing to watch my cat while I was gone, and that meant a lot to me.”

What skills have you improved so far?

“I have improved so much while being in Finland. I learned to trust myself and be confident in the ability to navigate through spaces that seemed unfamiliar. Being in Finland has improved my cooking, my ability to communicate, and cultivate meaningful relationships with people.”