Thinking about international studies? Or scroll past those emails like “maybe later”? We’ve been there. But what if one project, one trip, or even one week abroad could completely change how you see studying and yourself?
International studies aren’t just about collecting stamps in your passport. They’re about stepping out of your comfort zone, gaining real-life skills, and having stories that don’t start with another online group meeting.
One Project. A Whole New Perspective.
In this project, students from Mount Saint Joseph University (MSJ) and Laurea University of Applied Sciences collaborated on developing AI teaching materials for high school teachers. We started working with the project in January 2026. During the spring semester, we used to gather every other Thursday globally via Teams.
In April we finally got to gather live in Finland. During this Intensive Week in Finland, we as students were challenged to do something unexpected: teach real educators how to use artificial intelligence in their classrooms. Instead of passive learning, this project required teamwork, research, and confidence.
From Students to Teachers
Before even arriving in Finland, students were divided into sub teams covering AI use, free AI tools, prompt engineering, and privacy and security. Each team created teaching materials designed for real educators. Once in Finland, everything came together in a fast-paced and inspiring week at Laurea University.
Standing in front of teachers meant truly understanding the subject. Explaining complex ideas, adapting to questions, and keeping engagement high pushed students beyond traditional studying.
More Than Credits
International projects help develop communication, adaptability, confidence, and intercultural skills. Even better, the materials created during this project are being refined for public use, meaning a student project can have a lasting global impact.
What International Students Say
Thomas Reno from Mount Saint Joseph University in Cincinnati, USA, shared his experience studying in Finland. He enjoyed the peaceful culture, walkable cities, public transport, nature, and even the free bread and butter at school lunches. His biggest challenge was the language barrier and jet lag, but he emphasized how helpful and kind people were.
Finland and the U.S.: Cultural Differences and Similarities
Although Finland and the United States differ in many practical ways, international students often notice familiar values in both. Independence, individuality, innovation, and a strong focus on education are central in each country. Universities in both places are multi-cultural, offering diverse cuisines and internationally minded communities.
At the same time, differences in transportation, healthcare, measurement systems, and everyday routines require flexibility. These differences are not obstacles but learning opportunities. By adapting, students grow both personally and professionally.
Why You Should Go International
Thanks to Erasmus+ funding and flexible program lengths, we were able to go on this trip and gain real life experience.
So, ask yourself: do you want your studies to be something you attend or something you truly experience?
Writers: Juuso Happonen, Jani Heiskanen, Taru Haapala, Eliise Zaitsev, Minna Malinen, Courtney Callahan, Thomas Reno, Martha Allen, Mary Zink
Suurin osa Showcasen blogeista on toteutettu osana Laurean opintojaksoja. Koko koulutustarjontaamme voi tutustua nettisivuillamme. Tarjoamme kymmenien tutkintoon johtavien koulutuksien lisäksi myös paljon täydennys- ja erikoistumiskoulutuksia sekä yksittäisiä opintojaksoja avoimen AMK:n kautta!