Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Information Technology student Mohammad Kazemi came to UEF after 14 years in teaching, determined to follow his lifelong passion for computer science, and soon found the freedom, support, and calm environment he had been seeking.
For more than 14 years, Mohammad worked as a teacher. During that time, he taught in institutes and universities, became internationally certified, and even ran his own school. Yet one interest kept returning to him: technology and its potential to improve education.“I have always been passionate about computer science,” he says. “I wanted to finally combine both worlds.”
Several of Mohammad’s friends had studied at UEF and recommended it for its high-quality education, inclusive atmosphere, and international community. The university’s strong focus on research and innovation also convinced him that this was the right place to begin a new academic chapter.
Starting his studies from the bachelor level has given Mohammad something he values deeply: freedom in how to learn. He appreciates that UEF offers multiple ways to approach each course, through independent work, guidance sessions, tutors, exercise classes, and online materials. “It’s not a one‑size‑fits‑all system,” he says. “You can choose the study methods that work best for you.”
Here, everything is within reach. Cycling makes me more active and helps me experience my surroundings in a new way.”
Mohammad Kazemi
Student of Bachelor's degree programme in Information Technology
Settling into Joensuu’s calm and accessible lifestyle
Coming from a hot climate, Mohammad has also been pleasantly surprised by how much he enjoys Finland’s cold weather. Some of his favourite memories are the quiet walks he takes in the forest, with nothing but snow and wind around him. He also loves that he can cycle everywhere, a big change from his previous life, where distances made him rely on a car.
“Here, everything is within reach. Cycling makes me more active and helps me experience my surroundings in a new way.”
Switching from education to computer science has been a significant transition, and adjusting to a new culture and language has brought its own challenges. But Mohammad approaches them with optimism.“With the right attitude, everything can be overcome,” he says. Finland’s tranquility has been one of the biggest highlights for him. After years in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment, he appreciates the peaceful atmosphere and the understanding of individual needs. “This is exactly what I was looking for,” he reflects.
For future students, Mohammad offers advice shaped by his educator’s mind:
“Try to understand the big picture of the education system. Some parts may feel unfamiliar at first, but they all connect. Trust the process.” After graduation, Mohammad plans to apply his new computer science skills to the education sector. He already has ideas he is excited to develop — ideas he believes can improve the ways teaching and learning happen. “Learn for a reason,” he adds. “It makes every obstacle easier to overcome.”
