Choosing Finland twice: Matteo's story
Matteo is a participant in the Vaasa International Talents programme, Round 6 and a Master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Vaasa. His journey in Vaasa began in autumn 2024, when he arrived as an exchange student. What was initially meant to be a temporary experience soon became something more. After spending time in Finland and getting to know the country, Matteo decided to return the following year to continue his studies as a master’s degree student.
Coming from Italy, Southern Europe, he was curious to experience a different lifestyle and culture. The Nordic way of life felt both unfamiliar and exciting, and Finland offered him an opportunity to step outside his comfort zone and discover a new perspective on everyday life and work.
Understanding Finnish working life through Vaasa International Talents
For Matteo, one of the strengths of the Vaasa International Talents programme was the combination of expert knowledge and real-life experiences. The sessions introduced participants to different aspects of Finnish working life, while professionals and alumni shared their own journeys, challenges, and advice. This combination helped make the information practical, relatable, and inspiring.
What the programme provided to Matteo was not necessarily a different view of reality, but rather the tools and mindset needed to approach that reality in a constructive way. Through the programme, he learned how to take practical first steps and maintain a positive outlook while building his career in Finland. And, one of his most important takeaways was learning to be more proactive and willing to step outside his comfort zone. "Keep your doors open, because you never know where opportunities may lead you." he says.
Unlike some participants who point to a single memorable event, Matteo highlights the many conversations that took place throughout the programme. Whether during group exercises or coffee breaks, discussions with fellow participants allowed him to hear different perspectives, exchange experiences, and reflect on his own strengths and areas for development. For him, these everyday conversations became some of the most valuable moments of the programme.
Among the programme sessions, two stood out in particular. The first explored multipotentiality, a topic he strongly identified with through both the content and the stories shared by previous participants. The second focused on entrepreneurship, opening his eyes to an alternative pathway for internationals who want to build a future in Finland and introducing the support available for new businesses in the Vaasa region.
Working in an international environment
During summer time and along his studies, Matteo works as an Intern in International Services at the University of Vaasa, specifically within the Partnership and Mobility Services team. His work includes supporting incoming and outgoing exchange students, assisting with communication, and helping organize projects and events related to international cooperation, including summer schools and partnerships with universities around the world.
Interestingly, he did not get his current position on the first attempt. After a friend shared an application opportunity with him, Matteo applied for a position within the same team and was invited to an interview. Although he was not selected, he did not give up. Shortly afterwards, another similar opening became available. He applied again, and this time he was offered the role. His experience serves as a reminder that rejection does not always mean the end of the journey, sometimes it is simply a step towards a different opportunity.
Matteo does not have a fixed goal in mind for the future. Instead, he aims to continue learning, collecting new experiences, and using the knowledge he gains to explore new paths and opportunities. "I want to keep learning and use what I learn to start new journeys and see where they take me."
The Finnish workplace
One aspect of Finnish working life that immediately stood out to Matteo was Finland’s famous coffee culture. Over time, Matteo learned that coffee breaks are not just about having coffee, they are an important social part of workplace culture and an opportunity to get to know colleagues in a relaxed setting.
He was also pleasantly surprised by the level of involvement trainees receive. Even as an intern, he feels that his ideas and suggestions are listened to and taken into consideration, which has made him feel like a valued member of the team.
Matteo’s advice for newcomers
For those beginning their journey in Finland, Matteo encourages an open-minded approach. His advice is to be curious, embrace the local culture, and not be afraid to learn the language, even if progress is slow at first. Small efforts are appreciated and can go a long way in helping internationals integrate into society. He also recommends experiencing Finnish culture fully, whether that means spending time outdoors during the summer months or trying winter activities such as ice swimming. Understanding daily life in Finland, he believes, is an important part of feeling at home.
From arriving as an exchange student to building a new life in Vaasa, Matteo’s story demonstrates the importance of curiosity, openness, and continuous learning. His journey shows that sometimes the best opportunities arise when we are willing to explore the unfamiliar and say yes to something new.