Erasmus Experience in Helsinki, Finland by Eudaimonia

Source

Why did you choose to go to Helsinki, Finland?

Top country in the aspects that I find important: education, culture, living etc.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

10 months. 450€ per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Helsinki?

As you make it yourself. There are many options and you can really do anything you want.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Helsinki to other students?

I don't study at University of Helsinki. I would reccomend the Sibelius Academy (University of Arts).

What is the food like?

Good, nothing to complain about.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Helsinki?

No. Only time maybe.

How much does it cost to live in Helsinki?

I'm living here as a part-time au-pair. It is possible and for me, it's the best way to get an impression of living in Finland.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

It's not the easiest language in the world. Because practically everyone speaks English, I don't know as much Finnish as I would like. At Sibelius Academy, they offer language courses at several levels.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Helsinki from your city?

Airplane.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Helsinki?

Kallio.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Helsinki?

Vapiano near the main station. Others I don't know because I don't eat out very often.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Many.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Helsinki in the future?

Make your research prior to your departure. Connect with locals. Invest in yourself. Experience it all. It's possible and at a really high level here. If you have a chance to study here, do it.