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Valerio Domenici was studying Business Economics in his hometown at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. He chose to come to Finland through the Erasmus exchange program to study Business and Economics, specializing in Marketing. Eager to improve his English skills and experience Nordic culture, he saw this as an opportunity for both personal and professional growth. Through this exceptional experience at JYU, he developed both his skills in marketing and his global mindset, which helped his profile to stand out in the job market, as multinational organizations greatly value professionals with global experience.

Exposure to diverse cultures: A gateway to multinational organizations

Valerio expressed that his first fully immersive international experience in adult life happened at JYU, the best educational investment that allowed him to have a global mindset and be where he is today. With over 200 international students from across Europe, Japan, Korea, and Mexico, the university provided a culturally rich environment that expanded his horizons.

Engaging with classmates from diverse backgrounds provided him with different ways of thinking and problem-solving approaches. Moreover, collaborating on projects with classmates also helped him develop adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and a deeper understanding of global business dynamics: a valuable asset in his career.

This international exposure made Valerio unique since multinational organizations highly appreciate individuals with global exposure. Coming from a background where opportunities to engage with different cultures were limited, JYU expanded his perspective and enabled him to travel and work across various markets, including Switzerland, Australia, Southeast Asia, and Japan.

Today, Valerio works as a Marketing and Business Manager for Africa and the Middle East at CNH Industrial, a leading global agricultural and construction machinery company. His career journey highlights the power of internationalization in education.

Hands-on learning and industry collaboration

With the practical teaching approach and opportunities to collaborate with leading technological companies, Valerio gained a unique academic experience. Prior to coming to Finland, Valerio went through a traditional education system, focusing mostly on theory. However, the classes at JYU, with their practical approach focused on learning through business cases, truly opened his eyes to all the possibilities his profession had to offer.

Additionally, Valerio returned to Finland after his exchange to complete his thesis with Nokia, a leading Finnish technology company. During that time, he was interested in the groundbreaking innovation that Nokia developed, which sparked his passion for collaborating with the company. Through his professor’s network, he had the opportunity to conduct research with Nokia, further deepening his connection to the tech industry.

Another significant takeaway from this experience was his rapid improvement in English, which strengthened his professional profile. Two decades ago, fluency in English was not common among Italians, whereas Finland was ahead of many other countries. With the majority of the population fluent in English and education widely offered in this language, JYU accelerated Valerio’s language skills, making his profile more competitive.

Once Erasmus, always Erasmus 

Apart from academic and professional growth, one of the most valuable outcomes of Valerio's experience was the long-lasting friendships he formed during the student exchange. These connections are still strong over the years, and no matter where he goes, he always has people from his time at JYU to reach out to. 

He deeply values these friendships, which is why he organized an event last year for his Erasmus friends to reunite in Jyväskylä, celebrating the bonds they formed during their time together. He was glad to see that JYU has become even more diverse since his time there, with students now coming from Africa and Southeast Asia — students he didn’t encounter 20 years ago.  Many of his friends brought their children to the event, including his own. Valerio is committed to passing on the value of learning about different cultures to them, knowing how much it has enriched his life.

Reflecting on his own journey, Valerio encourages current exchange students to take advantage of this life-changing experience, which will shape who you are and open doors to endless possibilities.

Step out of your comfort zone to meet new people and learn the language. This will allow you to not only have empathy for other cultures but will help you become a better person.

Valerio’s story is a powerful reminder of how exchange programs can offer new cultural perspectives and create lasting connections that transform your personal and professional future. 

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