About Studying on Exchange at Savonia University of Applied Sciences
Sisters Valentina and Tatiana Grigorieva, students of the Institute of Biology, Ecology and Agricultural Technologies of PetrSU, told about participation in the program MultiPRO 2020 at Savonia University of Applied Sciences in Iisalmi, Finland.
"The three of us lived in an apartment (student dormitory) with another Russian student from PetrSU. Each had its own room, a bed, a table, a chair, a wardrobe and a mirror, and the toilet and kitchen were shared. Savonia University provided us with curtains and kitchen utensils. By and large, we had everything we needed. The laundry room was shared and located in a neighboring building. The cost of accommodation was different for everyone: from 230 to 300 euros per month (it depended on the room size). But the university offered a scholarship to the student of 560 euros per month, this money was enough.
We liked the university, it was modern, light and cozy. The training took place on the Moodle and all the materials were available open access. All teachers were always friendly and helpful in any situation. It was also unusual to address them by name. Many training classes were conducted jointly with Finnish students, who were very shy to speak English, but after a while we we teamed up and discussed freely every topic. The university has organized many excursions to farms: dairy, sheep-breeding, horse, as well as excursions to Ponsse, Valio in Lapinlahti and a trip to Lapland.
There was a Swedish board in the university canteen every day, the food was very tasty and at reasonable price. The average bill for lunch was from 1.5 to 3.5 euros.
Students coming from other countries – Austria, Kosovo, Hungary, Spain, Denmark and Thailand – also participated in the progam. Even for one day, students from the Netherlands were invited to talk about their university and studies. We were all having fun: we went to a hockey game, bowling, a bar, the pool hall, attended concerts and excursions, and went to Kuopio at the weekend.
Unfortunately, the program had to be completed earlier due to the coronavirus outbreak. But we are pleased with everything and still impressed. Many thanks to the Exchange programs division of PetrSU for this opportunity and invaluable experience".
