Learn the Finnish Language
Moving to a new country can be both an exciting and challenging experience, especially when it comes to adapting to a new culture and environment. For many Indian students planning to study abroad, Finland offers a unique blend of world-class education, scenic beauty, and a progressive lifestyle. But one aspect often overlooked is the importance of learning the local language – Finnish. While English is widely spoken, understanding and speaking Finnish can make a world of difference in terms of personal, academic, and professional experiences.
In this blog, we’ll explore five compelling reasons why learning Finnish should be a priority for any Indian student planning to move to Finland.
1. Ease the Cultural Transition and Improve Social Life
One of the first hurdles many international students face when moving to a foreign country is adjusting to a new culture. Finland, with its distinct way of life, offers both modern amenities and a deep connection to nature, but the local language plays a key role in connecting with the people and the culture.
- Breaking the Ice: Knowing Finnish can help you break past the initial language barrier and build meaningful relationships with Finns. While Finns are generally fluent in English, speaking Finnish shows respect for the culture and allows for more authentic interactions.
- Integration into Local Communities: Many social events, meetups, and community activities are conducted in Finnish. Understanding the language will allow you to actively participate in these events and feel more integrated into the local community.
Learning Finnish will also help you understand the social nuances, traditions, and local humour that might otherwise be lost in translation. Whether you’re attending a local festival or chatting with your neighbours, speaking Finnish can make these interactions more enjoyable and fulfilling.
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2. Better Job Opportunities and Internships
When it comes to job opportunities, especially in a country like Finland, knowing the local language is a major advantage. While Finland has a high level of English proficiency, most Finnish companies still prefer candidates who can speak Finnish, particularly for positions that involve direct interaction with customers, clients, or colleagues.
- Job Market Advantage: Many companies, especially small and medium-sized businesses, often have positions where proficiency in Finnish is a requirement. This is particularly true in fields like healthcare, customer service, education, and government-related positions.
- Internships and Part-time Jobs: As an international student, you might want to earn extra income by taking up part-time jobs or internships. Speaking Finnish opens up more opportunities for such roles, as many employers prefer candidates who can communicate in the local language.
For Indian students who plan to stay in Finland after graduation, mastering the language is essential for long-term career prospects. Whether you’re looking for opportunities in international organizations or Finnish companies, knowing Finnish will make you stand out.
Read More : Cost of studying in Finland
3. Navigating Everyday Life with Ease
Living in Finland involves more than just attending university or work. Everyday tasks like shopping, using public transportation, or even reading signs at public places can become much easier when you understand Finnish.
- Public Transport: In cities like Helsinki, buses, trams, and trains are the primary modes of transport. While signs and timetables are available in English, some areas or smaller towns may have limited information in English. Knowing Finnish helps in understanding routes, schedules, and even asking for help in case you get lost.
- Shopping and Dining: If you enjoy exploring local markets, cafes, or restaurants, speaking Finnish will make your experience more authentic. From reading labels in stores to ordering food in local restaurants, knowing the language makes it easier to understand product descriptions, ingredients, and prices.
- Dealing with Authorities: Sometimes, dealing with bureaucracy or official procedures, such as applying for residence permits, insurance, or registering at the local municipality, requires knowledge of the local language. Though many public officials speak English, learning Finnish will save you time and avoid potential misunderstandings.
Read More : Master in Finland
4. Take Advantage of the Finnish Government’s Free Language Courses
Finland offers various free resources for learning the Finnish language, which is a big bonus for international students. The Finnish government provides several initiatives to help residents, including international students, learn Finnish.
- Integration Programmes: Most Finnish cities have integration programmes aimed at helping foreigners settle in. These programs usually include free or subsidized Finnish language courses, which are tailored to different levels of proficiency. They cover everything from basic vocabulary and grammar to more advanced conversational skills.
- Support for International Students: Universities in Finland often have language courses designed specifically for students, with some even offering Finnish lessons as part of your curriculum. Additionally, student unions and local communities frequently organize language exchange programs to help newcomers practice Finnish.
- Online Resources: The Finnish government and other institutions also offer online resources and language apps, making it easier for students to learn at their own pace, even before arriving in Finland.
By taking advantage of these free courses and resources, you can gain a solid foundation in the Finnish language and feel more confident when you arrive in the country.
5. Language Learning Tips for Indian Students
Learning a new language can be daunting, but with the right approach, it’s definitely achievable. Here are a few tips specifically for Indian students who are keen on learning Finnish before their move:
- Start with Basics: Begin with common phrases and everyday vocabulary. Focus on greetings, basic questions, and directions. This will help you navigate early interactions and build confidence.
- Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to practice your Finnish. Even 15-30 minutes a day can make a big difference over time. Language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise are great tools for learning on the go.
- Immerse Yourself: One of the best ways to learn a language is through immersion. Watch Finnish TV shows, listen to Finnish music, or read simple Finnish books. Even if you don’t understand everything, this will help you get used to the sounds and rhythm of the language.
- Speak with Locals: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Engage in conversations with Finnish speakers, even if it’s just small talk. The more you practice, the quicker you’ll improve.
- Join Language Exchange Groups: Many cities have language exchange programs where you can meet native Finnish speakers who want to learn English. This is a great way to practice speaking and learn informal, conversational Finnish.
Conclusion
Learning Finnish before moving to Finland is more than just a practical skill – it’s an investment in your future. It will help you build stronger connections, improve your job prospects, navigate everyday life more smoothly, and take advantage of free government resources.
For Indian students planning to study in Finland, taking the time to learn the basics of Finnish will pay off in the long run, making your transition to Finnish society much easier and more rewarding. So, if you’re considering a move to Finland, why not start learning Finnish today? It could be the key to unlocking a successful and fulfilling experience in this beautiful country.
