I talked to an immigrant living in Finland who wanted to stay anonymous. They moved to Finland a few years ago for better opportunities and a stable life. We discussed how they have adjusted, the challenges they faced, and if they feel at home in Finland.
Adjusting to Life in Finland
My interviewee said that fitting into Finnish society takes time, effort, and patience. Learning Finnish is very important because, even though many Finns speak English, daily life is easier with some Finnish knowledge. They are taking language classes and practicing every day, which helps them feel more connected. They also mentioned that understanding Finnish customs is important. Finns value personal space and are usually quiet, which makes it hard to make friends. But once a friendship is made, Finns are loyal and kind.
Challenges and Easier Parts
Finding a job was the hardest part for them. Even though they have good qualifications, not knowing Finnish well made it difficult. Networking and internships helped them get a stable job.
On the positive side, they found Finland’s public services very helpful. Healthcare, social benefits, and free education made their transition easier.
Feeling at Home in Finland
When asked if they feel at home, my interviewee had mixed feelings. They like Finland’s safety, fairness, and good quality of life, but sometimes feel lonely. They believe it takes time to fully feel at home.
How to Help Immigrants Adjust
From this interview, I think the best way to help immigrants is to offer language classes, job programs, and mentors. Social events and cultural exchange programs can also help them feel included.
How Integration Affects Identity
Adjusting to a new country changes a person. My interviewee said they have taken on Finnish customs but still keep their own culture. They feel like they belong to both cultures.
This interview showed me that adjusting is a two-way process. Immigrants need to put in effort, but society should also be open and welcoming. This way, everyone benefits from diversity.