Venturing confidently into the world: Emmi and Pinja’s student exchange introduced them to new cultures and contributed significantly to their development as future professionals

Emmi Häikiö and Pinja Inomaa, Bachelor of Business Administration students in HR and management, decided to boldly seize the opportunity offered by LAB University of Applied Sciences to take part in student exchange. Both were interested in new perspectives, international networks, and the opportunity to develop language skills in practice. Above all, the exchange meant a step outside their familiar environment and an opportunity to grow professionally and personally. “Studying internationally was a natural decision for me, as I already spent a year in the United States during high school,” Häikiö explains. 

For Inomaa, student exchange was a long-term dream that came true when her own courage and the encouragement from her loved ones aligned at the right moment.

A two-step exchange process 

The LAB student exchange process begins with a discussion with one’s tutor teacher and participation in the student exchange application info session, where each stage is presented in detail. Students explore available exchange destinations and then take part in LAB’s internal application round to determine which host institution they may apply to.

“The actual application proceeds in two phases. First, LAB confirms the exchange destination, after which the actual preparation begins. At this stage, the student submits a second application to the selected host institution, provides the required documents, and selects courses that support their field for the upcoming exchange period,” Häikiö explains.

“There are also two mandatory Go Abroad Kick Off sessions between the application phases, where the students are guided through each stage,” Inomaa continues.

Both students’ first-choice destinations were confirmed. Häikiö was selected for Barcelona, Spain, while Inomaa’s exchange took her to Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. Barcelona was already familiar to Häikiö, and its lively atmosphere, language and energetic heartbeat of a large city made the choice easy. Inomaa, on the other hand, intentionally chose a more peaceful destination: 

“I hoped for an exchange experience away from the pace of major cities, and Cyprus therefore became my top choice.”

Studying in a new environment

Both students arranged accommodation independently, although support from the host institution was available if needed. The first days abroad were filled with both excitement and enthusiasm. In Barcelona Häikiö quickly adapted to the energetic rhythm of the city and the study environment:

“The studies were well-structured and goal-oriented, and the attendance requirement defined the study days. If a student arrived late, they were not permitted to enter the classroom. In addition, the long study days included group work and presentations in front of the class”.

Inomaa’s initial experience in Cyprus, by contrast, was more serene.

“The warm and hospitable culture impressed me already during orientation week. Teaching was clearly more informal than in Finland.  The courses did not include interim submissions or continuous assessment; instead, the work culminated in a final examination”.

Both students noted that the level and structure of teaching differed from Finnish universities of applied sciences. In Cyprus, the lectures were largely based on the teacher's slide shows, and the students were allowed to take notes at their own pace. In Barcelona, the exams were traditionally completed on paper. 

“Although a platform like Moodle was available, it was used significantly less than in Finland,” Häikiö says and Inomaa continues. “Cyprus also had its own computer class, where exams were taken on school computers instead of own devices.”

Towards graduation and a more international career

Häikiö and Inomaa are currently completing their Bachelor of Business Administration degrees by finalising their theses and are set to graduate in spring 2026. Their exchange period provided valuable skills: enhanced language and communication skills, increased confidence, adaptability, and intercultural understanding, precisely the qualities valued in an increasingly international working environment.

“Speaking English became more natural, and my confidence grew. My social skills and ability to work with people from different cultural backgrounds also strengthened,” Inomaa summarises her experience.

If it interests you even in the slightest – go

Häikiö and Inomaa encourage anyone who is even slightly interested in student exchange to take the step. They felt that LAB University of Applied Sciences provided excellent support throughout the process. LAB’s wide range of exchange destinations, the clear application process, and the support from student exchange coordinator Miia Tuominen received special acknowledgement.

“LAB handled everything well. We received a lot of support and encouragement, and the process was smooth from start to finish." Häikiö notes and continues: 

"Although the decision is exciting, the courage to leave is worth it. I would also highlight that the best part of the exchange is the new international friends, with whom the connection has remained after returning home.” 

Both agree they would go on exchange again without hesitation.

LAB University of Applied Sciences’ extensive exchange opportunities and clear support model make internationalization genuinely accessible. Studying abroad brings meaningful experiences into students’ lives through new friendships, networks, and professional growth.