Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

Tervetuloa! This fall semester I had the wonderful opportunity to study abroad at the University of Jyväskylä. My time abroad has been nothing but the best. I have met some amazing people, traveled around Finland, tried many traditional Finnish foods, and have made lifelong friends. I have been able to take diverse and enriching courses in the education department at the University of Jyväskylä that I believe will be very beneficial for me as a future teacher. My courses this past fall semester have explored the Finnish education system, cultural diversity in education, international education policies around the world, schoolscapes, as well as a crafting course taught by Finnish student teachers.

One of my favorite memories I have of Finland has been observing and working with my Finnish elementary students. My teaching practice for international students course I took this fall semester at the University of Jyväskylä allowed me the opportunity to visit a Finnish elementary school on a weekly basis. I am very grateful that I was able to actually visit a Finnish elementary school and interact with my Finnish students as it allowed me to experience first-hand the Finnish education system and learn in great detail about the Finnish classroom and curriculum. In this course, I was able to observe and work with 3^rd graders, interact with Finnish student teachers, as well as present multiple times to my 3^rd graders in English. I had the opportunity to present to my 3^rd graders a presentation about my English and Polish heritage, cultures, and traditions. My students loved hearing about my background, my family traditions, as well as learning how to count and say their name in Polish. It was truly rewarding and enriching to be able to form connections with my Finnish students and learn about the Finnish education system in the most meaningful way. Nothing made my heart happier than seeing my students every week and seeing how excited they were to see me. I will forever cherish the memories I made with my Finnish teacher and students.

I am extremely grateful for Lake Forest College and ISEP for providing me with the airfare reimbursement award. My time studying abroad in Finland is an experience I will never forget. I hope someday soon I am able to return to Finland and continue exploring more of its beautiful landscapes and immersing myself in the Finnish culture.   

Exploring Helsinki, the capital of Finland: