My name is Xiaoxue Chen, and I’m from China. I am currently a first-year master’s student in the Responsible Management and Business of Sport (RESPO) programme at the Ģֱ (JYU). Coming to JYU was definitely a dream come true for me.
Three years ago, while working as a sport social media editor, I felt uncertain about my career prospects and my understanding of sports was still not enough. However, one thing was clear: I was deeply committed to staying in the sports industry.
This passion led me to consider pursuing a master’s degree, hoping that it would provide a broader perspective and open up new opportunities. As someone who had never lived abroad, choosing a destination was a challenging decision.
So, why Finland? I often joke that it was a birthday gift to myself. On my birthday in 2022, the Finnish men’s ice hockey team won the golden medal at the Beijing Winter Olympics. As a hockey fan, watching that historic moment inspired me with a sudden realization: Why not Finland?
And with that, my journey began.
Experience and motivation are important when applying to JYU
Finding JYU among Finland’s universities wasn’t difficult since it has the only sports faculty in the country. For me, the Master’s Degree Programme in Responsible Management and Business of Sport was the obvious first choice.
Yet, my confidence wavered when I saw the application requirements of RESPO. I couldn’t ignore my biggest concern—my academic background. I majored in English Language and Literature as an undergraduate and had no formal training in sports social sciences or business. I kept telling myself that applying to RESPO might be nothing more than a pleasant fantasy.
Fortunately, I had a friend who had studied in Finland, and her encouragement kept me going. She reassured me that Finnish higher education is inclusive and values diverse perspectives. “Don’t let your academic background hold you back,” she said. “Your love for sports is undeniable, and the sports world needs more women. At the least, give it a try!”
Her words gave me the courage to proceed. During the application process, I devoted the most time to crafting my motivation letter. I wanted it to convey what I gained from working in sports media, my passion for sports and my sincere commitment to studying in Finland—all within a limited number of words.
Intertwining sports and business knowledge with intercultural communication skills
Becoming a member of RESPO made me realize that all the waiting and struggles were absolutely worth it. The programme is worth it, and so are the people here.
The curriculum design of RESPO was a relief for me. It balances both sports and business knowledge while also including writing courses and thesis seminars. I’m grateful that we receive this guidance early on. Although I had studied English writing before, the requirements for academic writing differ across disciplines. Preparing early gives us more time to explore our interests and improve our writing skills.
One unexpected highlight was the course on social interaction skills. As an international programme, RESPO equips us with the social skills to thrive in intercultural teams. This course isn’t just about adapting to future work environments; it also helps shape a more well-rounded version of myself.
Although we’ve only been studying together for three months, I can confidently say that the feedback from my classmates will remain a cherished memory. We listen to each other’s perspectives, freely give compliments, and are learning to provide constructive feedback (which, I must admit, is not easy). Through their eyes, I saw a different version of myself— something I never expected but deeply appreciate.
With the teachers and peers by my side, I have every reason to believe that winter in Finland isn’t ‘cold’ at all.
A journey of self-discovery in Jyväskylä
Sometimes, I feel that studying abroad is a sweet kind of trouble. Arriving in this unfamiliar city, with no friends or family around, I found myself facing the unknown alone while often missing my loved ones thousands of miles away. To connect more with Jyväskylä, I joined the local friend program organized by the student union, JYY, and through it, I made a Finnish friend!
Over the past three months, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to go with the flow. Coming here was my own decision, and I must take responsibility for it. I’ve also learned to accept my negative emotions—it’s okay to cry!
Meanwhile, I’ve started to embrace what this new life has to offer: enjoying the stunning natural scenery, learning Finnish language, participating in sports activities, and, of course, experiencing the sauna! When you are in Finland, do what Finns do.
Studying in RESPO is fulfillment of my childhood dream
Studying sports social sciences and working in the sports industry has been my dream since childhood. Yet, there were countless times when I doubted myself and felt lost about my future.
I always remember an adage shared by Kim Ng, the first female GM in MLB, during her inaugural speech: “You can’t be it if you can’t see it.” Fortunately, I see it. I see my professors. I see countless women thriving in the sports. And, I know I want to join them. My dream is worth pursuing.
Now, it’s your turn. Thank you for reading this, and I want to encourage anyone who seeks an inclusive yet professional learning environment to consider applying to the Ģֱ.
Read more: Master's Degree Programme in Responsible Management and Business of Sport
