Student Spotlight: Ann West in Finland

What is something you want to remember about your time abroad?

”During my time abroad, I want to remember the awesome people that I met and experiences I was able to have. I was able to have an experience of a lifetime and I want to cherish the memories cultivated here.”

Describe the favorite part of your day in your host city. 

“My favorite part of the day is the mornings and afternoons because the sun is shining and the city is very lively, but still quiet and peaceful. I am able to go on walks and get some fresh air, soaking up some sun.”

What does the black experience feel like in your host city? Is it similar or different from your home city? 

“Being black In Joensuu, Finland, a city of 60,000 who are a lot different than I expected, I definitely stick out. But, most people are very intrigued and eager to learn more about me. No matter where are you are in the world or the language that people speak, there is a universal connectivity that we as human beings have with each other which transcends beyond the physical aesthetic. It does feel a bit different from what I’m used to because I’m used to more diversity, but once you look past the physical: there are many commonalities that I share with the people here. As one of the very few Black people in the city, I walk confidently with my head held high and feet 10 toes to the ground.”