A Chinese Student’s Finnish Adventure –  Zhao Ray’s Exchange Experience

Zhao Ray is a 21 years old business management student from Guangxi Nanning who studies at George Mason University in China. He came to Finland to begin his six month exchange program at XAMK University. He said that he has always been fascinated about European cultures and keen to expand his horizons. He grabbed the opportunity to study abroad in Finland. “I always wanted to experience something completely new and different from what I was used to in China” he said.

Finland recognized for its natural beauty, elegant design and great quality of life. Ray was instantly taken away by the stunning scenery and serene environment. “Finland is great and easygoing” he says, smiling. “The people are friendly, the food is delicious and the scenery is simply stunning. Ray spends time in learning Finnish culture apart from his academics in XAMK. He is taking classes in Analytics, IOT and AI and has even learned some basic Finnish along the way.

“I love the friends I’ve made here ” Ray said enthusiastically. “We get out, try new food styles and tell tales about our cultures. It is incredible how much you can learn from people when you get out of your comfort zone.

On the other hand Ray was not only fascinated by Finland’s natural beauty but also by its educational system. “XAMK is a great university and the teaching methods are so different from what I’m used to in China” he said.  Also he said he appreciates the focus on critical thinking, group projects and practical applications.

Despite the obstacles of adjusting to a new environment Ray is exploring Finland. He is beginning to appreciate life’s basic pleasures such as drinking coffee at a café or going for a walk in the park. “Life here is peaceful and I feel like I have space to grow and think” he said. For now Ray is appreciating the fantastic ride he has been on. “My exchange experience in Finland has taught me to embrace diversity, be open minded and appreciate the little things in life” he said. “I’ll take these lessons with me wherever I go and I’ll always look back on my time here with fondness and appreciation.”