Global Classrooms, Local Friendships: From Rice to Rye Bread

First Impressions: From Guangzhou to Kokkola

The students arrived in late August, many experiencing Northern Europe for the first time. For some, it will be their first encounter with snow, prompting eager questions about when the first flakes would fall. Others were lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights in September, capturing the moment with excitement.

“The sky looks so clean and pure!” “It’s really quiet here and peaceful.” “People are so helpful and friendly during my travel to Kokkola.” Despite the long journey – over 24 hours for many – their faces lit up with joy and curiosity. I also jumped with excitement at the train station when I saw them jumping and running towards me.

A Diverse Learning Community

Joining the Chinese cohort were 12 other international students from countries such as Panama, Nepal, and Nigeria. The scale of the Chinese group surprised some but also sparked admiration. One student from Panama remarked:

“It’s so cool to see so many Chinese students in the IT program. Chinese are doing extraordinary things in technology.”

I have also noticed cooking related WeChat post from double degree students feature not only Chinese food but also Finnish dishes, Italian recipes, also sometimes European modified Chinese food.

This multicultural mix has created a vibrant learning environment where students exchange ideas, cultures, and perspectives – both inside and outside the classroom.

Adapting to Finnish pedagogy

Chinese students appreciate the transparency and open dialogue in Finnish classrooms. They’re especially drawn to practical, problem-solving approaches and real-life scenario-based learning.

Many students have experienced a pedagogical shift: from lecture-heavy formats to interactive, student-centered methods. In this joint program cooperation, one-third of the professional courses are taught by Centria teachers in China.

At the beginning, many students were not accustomed to self-directed learning and group work. They often felt frustrated, and at times, due to language challenges, some could also feel lost during the lectures. After receiving feedback from the partner university, Centria’s teachers slowed down the pace, provided more guidance, and became more actively involved in group supervision and support. Day by day, course by course, before the students arrive in Kokkola, they have already been taught 15 courses by Centria teachers. Not only have their English language skills improved, but their ability to adapt to Finnish pedagogy has also progressed significantly. Also, critical thinking and collaborative skills. As their language proficiency improves, so does their confidence and the sense of making global friends.

In the second month of the new semester, I was invited to this group’s course presentation for the ICT Entrepreneurship Project. I was very happy and proud to see the creative business ideas the students came up with, most of them focused on digital services, supported by thorough market research and well-prepared plans. Many of them also spoke English very confidently during the presentation.

Sustainability from Tankkari to Campus

Thanks to Centria’s sustainability strategy launched in 2023, students are engaging with eco-conscious practices from day one by asking how to use the garbage containers in Tankkari students’ accommodation communities.

While China has promoted sustainable development nationally, many students note that Finland daily life approach feels more tangible and impactful. These habits, like waste sorting, are not just learned but lived, and many students express a desire to bring these values back home to influence their families in China. It is rewarding for me to see this happening.

Independence and Personal Growth

Perhaps the most transformative aspect of studying in Finland is the newfound independence. In China, this group students often follow structured routines guided by teachers and parents.

In Kokkola, they enjoyed the freedom that comes with being independent, and navigate unfamiliar environments to become stronger individuals: from choosing the color of their bed sheets and covers, to opening a bank account, taking care of their Finnish Kela student health insurance, managing their study schedules, handling minor traffic accidents, and deciding which cities in Europe to visit during holiday trips.

“The only person I have been missing back China is my grandpa, also the cat.” One student replied to my questions about homesickness.

This shift fosters self-discipline, creativity, and resilience. Students learn to balance coursework with personal time, and even plan holiday trips. While initially daunting, these experiences become powerful lessons in autonomy and maturity.

Preparing for a Global Future

More than 10 out of these 40 double degree students have started their application to master program studies in UK, in Europe.

However, the joint program offers not only academic credentials – it cultivates life skills that prepare students for global careers. Centria’s Integration Service is actively providing guidance and organizing events that connect local companies with Centria students. Meanwhile, the Chinese government continues to update policies and offer support for international graduate students. The future for these double-degree students will be rich in cultural diversity, and we truly hope they enjoy this game changing academic journey in Kokkola.