Discovering Finland-Rauma

During the academic year 2019-2020, I went for an Erasmus in Finland. Being italian, used to a warm weather, the sun, the sea it didn't look like the ideal place that somebody like me would chose as first choice for an Erasmus. My friends and family though that I was crazy, but I was ready for a new adventure in a new country that I didn't know anything about. Believe me when I say that it was the best experience of my life. If you are still thinking about it, don't doubt it, just go. 

I went to Samk university in the campus of Rauma. Before I went I couldn't find anything about that place apart from some wikipedia informations. It is in fact a small town in the south of Finland. When you arrive it feels like to be in a fairytale town. The buildings have an unique style, built in wooden if you walk around the Old Rauma. Also, There is the sea nearby and some good nature if you want to loose yourself in the woods and maybe have a barbecue with some friends. Sometimes the town can seem too silent, but if you're surrounded with good Erasmus friends, prepare yourself for an amazing adventure.

About the University, I really enjoyed it, The teachers are really nice and ready to help you. The lessons are easy to follow and to pass, but I really felt I was learning more than in my university since it is more practical and there are many group projects.

I would recommend you to go to some hockey games(if you have the university "uniform" it will be free). Also, don't waste your time staying in your room because I regret it now, make the most of this experience. Take the ferry from Turku and go to Stockholm for some days, it is not expensive if you book it on time. Other places you could go and that I think you can't miss is Turku, Tampere, Lapland and Rovaniemi, Helsinki. Also from Helsinki you could take a ferry to Tallin in Estonia pretty cheap(also the alcohol if you know what I mean ;) ).  Some of my friends also went to Russia(st. Petersburg), norway and Denmark. So if you would like to experience all of this, get ready! 

If you want to know more about me and my next experiences, check erasmusfordummies.com 

Once erasmus, always Erasmus 

Laura