Culture Shock in Finalnd

How I managed to beat my Culture Shock in Finland

Malena Rose Exchange view, Features, Kouvola, Self-help, student story, Travel

Vol 27, Issue 20, 14th March 2025

Moving to a new country is an adventure. New people, new experiences, and, of course, a completely new culture. As an international student in Finland, I thought I had adjusted well. But then, after about six months, it hit me – culture shock.

What Is Culture Shock?

Culture shock is that strange feeling when everything around you suddenly feels foreign – even after you thought you had settled in. It can come in different stages. First, there’s the honeymoon phase, where everything is exciting and new. Then comes frustration: Why does no one talk to me on the bus? Why does it get dark at 3 PM? Why is everything so expensive? After that, you might feel homesick or even irritated by the cultural differences. But eventually, if you push through, you adjust and start to feel at home.

My Experience with Culture Shock in Finland

At first, I loved Finland. The quiet, the nature, the efficiency – everything seemed perfect. But after half a year, I started feeling lonely. In Germany, I was used to small talk, spontaneous social gatherings, and people being a bit more direct. Here, I felt like I was on my own, and it made me question whether I really fit in. But over time, I realized that adapting doesn’t mean changing who you are – it means understanding and embracing differences.

How to Deal with Culture Shock

If you’re struggling with culture shock, don’t worry – it’s normal. Here are a few things that helped me:

  • Acknowledge It – Culture shock is real, and it’s okay to feel frustrated. Accepting it is the first step to overcoming it.
  • Find a Community – Connecting with other international students or even locals can help you feel less alone. Join student clubs, sports teams, or language exchange groups.
  • Keep an Open Mind – Finnish culture might be different, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad. Embrace the silence, enjoy the saunas, and learn to appreciate the little things.
  • Stay Connected to Home – Sometimes, calling a friend from home or cooking a familiar meal can be comforting, but don’t let homesickness take over.
  • Create Routines – Having a routine makes a new place feel more familiar. Whether it’s a daily walk, gym sessions, or a favorite café, find something that grounds you.

It Gets Better

Culture shock can be tough, but it’s also part of growing. Looking back, I see how much I’ve learned, not just about Finland but about myself. So if you’re going through it – hang in there. With time, you’ll find your balance, and one day, you might even feel at home in this cold but wonderful country.

Malena Rose
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