Meet Nipunie, a Master's student in Linguistic Data Sciences at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF). She shares her story of why she chose UEF, what she likes about her studies and Finland, and what are her plans for the future.
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Why did you decide to apply to UEF?
I was interested in following a Master's degree in Linguistics after completing my Bachelor's degree back in 2018. When I was searching for the study options, I came across this particular master's degree programme, of which the content is unique, innovative and interesting. I was curious to explore how they have combined the data sciences with linguistics. Moreover, I was interested in the Finnish culture and especially the language, wanted to come to Finland, in order to experience what I had read on the internet about Finland before. The reasonable tuition fees are not to be forgotten.
What has been your favorite thing in your studies so far?
Flexibility and freedom in choosing the course units and the availability of multiple course units surprised me, because that is something that I did not see during my Bachelor's degree. I also appreciate the support and guidance from the teachers and the staff, who are always ready to help and answer any questions. The courses are challenging but rewarding, and I have learned a lot of new skills and knowledge that are relevant to my field of interest.
What has been the best or the most memorable moment in Finland or at UEF so far?
In Finland, everything so far has been memorable, but when I arrived in Finland on 1 December 2021, I saw snow for the first time in my life. I will never forget those huge piles of snow and how my hands froze. I was amazed!
The moment I could successfully communicate with Finns using Finnish felt like an achievement and it indeed is one of the best memories.
At UEF, apart from all the memories I made with new friends I met at UEF, the day that I was granted an extra scholarship based on the performance of the studies, will never be forgotten.
In your opinion, what is the best thing about Finland and Joensuu?
Joensuu is very close to nature and it has a unique beauty in each season. Moreover, Joensuu is full of friendly people. I love how people in Joensuu made me feel at home and never laughed at my broken Finnish and how they get very excited when we speak Finnish. Finland is a safe and peaceful country, with a high quality of life and education. I also admire the Finnish values of honesty, equality, and respect.
I never regret my decision of coming to Finland. I am grateful for the opportunity to study at UEF and to be part of this amazing community. I have grown as a person and as a professional, and I have made lifelong friends and memories
Nipunie Halpege
Student of Linguistic Data Sciences
What would you say to a prospective student, who is thinking about applying to UEF?
If you are passionate to study in an academic environment full of freedom and friendly teachers, make new international friends and if you love to adapt to the Finnish weather, culture and the environment, UEF would be ideal for you! UEF offers a wide range of study programmes in English and other languages, with excellent facilities and services. You will also have the opportunity to learn Finnish, which is a valuable skill in the job market. UEF is a multidisciplinary university that conducts interdisciplinary research on global challenges and produces solutions for a sustainable future1.
What are your plans after graduation?
I would like to improve my Finnish language skills and actively contribute to the economy of Finland by making use of what I learned during the degree. I wish to pursue a PhD in the field of translation studies, even though not immediately after graduating. I also hope to travel more and explore different parts of Finland and Europe.
Anything else you would like to say?
I never regret my decision of coming to Finland. I am grateful for the opportunity to study at UEF and to be part of this amazing community. I have grown as a person and as a professional, and I have made lifelong friends and memories. I would recommend UEF to anyone who is looking for a quality education and a memorable experience.
