Building a Future at XAMK: An Immigrant Mother’s Journey of Hope

Vol, 27, Issue 16, 31 January 2025

On a cold winter’s day in early 2023, as my foot touched Finnish soil once again, the crunch of thick snow beneath me brought a renewed sense of hope. It marked the start of a new chapter, brimming with both uncertainty and anticipation. As a mother, a student, and a new immigrant, I was ready to embrace these roles and build a new life in this land of blue skies and white snow.

Balancing Life as a Student and Mother in Finland

Leaving behind a stable career and a comfortable life in China was a difficult but determined choice. Yet, in 2023, my two school-aged boys and I chose Finland as our new home, driven by hope and determination to grow together as a family.

My boys, talented musicians with kind and resilient hearts, inspire me every day. In turn, I hope my persistence and determination will set an example for them. Life in Finland is not merely about adapting to a new environment; it has been a transformative journey of mutual support and self-discovery. I dream that we will each become like our own suns, shining brightly in this beautiful new home.

Despite the challenges of balancing these roles, I knew education would be the key to truly building a future for my family in Finland.

Education: The Key to My Finnish Dream

Starting over as a new immigrant means embracing Finland’s challenges, from enduring its cold winters to mastering a new language and culture. Early on, I realized education would be my bridge to fully integrate into Finnish society.

My journey began with a vocational program in social and health care, where hard work led to excellent results and graduation. This achievement opened the door for me to further my education at XAMK, where I started pursuing a degree in International Business Administration in January 2025.

At XAMK, I have found a multicultural environment where innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge resources inspire me daily. The university’s emphasis on collaboration and creativity has empowered me to pursue my goals with confidence.

This opportunity is more than a step toward earning my second bachelor’s degree—it’s a chance to build the skills and connections I need to realize my dream of localizing and establishing my own company in Finland.

Life and Studies: Overcoming Challenges

As a full-time student and a mother, balancing family, studies, and work has been both challenging and rewarding. Each day, I juggle supporting my sons’ music and sports activities, managing the household, and teaching Chinese part-time—all while staying committed to my academic journey.

Despite careful planning, last-minute changes from my children’s rehearsals or sports activities frequently disrupt my schedule. Over time, I’ve learned to adapt quickly and handle the unexpected with resilience.

Living in a small, accessible city has been a true blessing. With no traffic congestion to slow me down, I often joke that I’m the most dedicated taxi driver in town—except my passengers are usually my two boys. Even amid the busyness, I feel immense gratitude for this life and the opportunity to grow alongside my children.

These daily challenges have not only strengthened my resilience but also clarified the vision of the future I want to create for myself and my family.

Looking Ahead: Turning Dreams into Reality

At XAMK, I am inspired by the university’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and global collaboration. Surrounded by creativity and ambition, I’m confident that this experience will equip me not only to achieve my career goals but also to contribute meaningfully to Finnish society. My vision is to establish a company that serves as a dynamic bridge, providing customized consulting services to promote cultural exchange and foster business collaboration between Finland and China. Through partnerships with local institutions and organizations, I aim to create a platform where students, professionals, and businesses can connect, learn, and thrive across borders.

My ultimate aspiration is to graduate, establish a business that serves the local community, and support other immigrants in their journeys. More importantly, I want to show my children that resilience and hard work can make any dream achievable. For me, the future is not just about personal success; it’s about creating a meaningful life in Finland, sharing this journey with my family, and making a positive impact on the community around us.

Shaping the Future Through Effort and Hope

As an international student and a new immigrant, I understand the road ahead will have its challenges. Yet, every step—no matter how small—brings me closer to building a brighter future. XAMK’s multicultural support and international programs have been pivotal in shaping my journey and giving me the confidence to thrive in this new environment.

I hope my story inspires other international students navigating similar paths. Together, we can overcome challenges, find our place, and flourish in this beautiful land we now call home.

As long as we carry hope in hearts and keep moving forward, our journey will grow brighter, shaping a story of resilience and promise.

Together, we can rise above challenges, seize opportunities, and shape a future full of promise in this beautiful land we proudly call home.