Although I enjoyed working in the field of education, I still wanted to follow my dream of pursuing biology research in one of the most beautiful and environmentally conscious countries in the world. Moving from Sri Lanka to Finland was a big leap, but my tutor provided support well in advance, which made me feel content with everything.
I graduated in Biological Sciences from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, in 2014. Upon graduation, my ambition had always been to pursue a research career in biology. Yet, the path to my dream unfolded gradually.
Soon after graduation, I began my career as a university teaching assistant in Biology, before transitioning to a high school biology teacher role in 2017. Although I enjoyed my work, I was always thinking about the best way to achieve my dream of a research career. I knew that postgraduate study is the next step toward my goal, and I continuously searched for the best place to resume my education. I had always heard about Finland as the world’s happiest country and the home of Santa Claus Village. However, it was in mid-2021 that Finland truly caught my attention as the ideal destination for pursuing higher education due to its pioneering research in biological sciences and its excellent work-life balance.
In 2022, I started applying for master’s studies in Finland, and my current programme, Master's Degree Programme in Biological and Environmental Science at JYU was the only programme I found to carry out master’s studies in my favourite study area aquatic sciences. Despite concerns about gap years in my studies, one day in April 2022, I received the exciting email I had been waiting for relentlessly. I had been accepted for the programme with a full tuition fee scholarship – I was over the moon!
JYU gave me the best teachers and advanced research facilities in biology
My education journey was the most pleasant. From admission to settling in Jyväskylä, everything went smoothly. My tutor reached out well in advance, providing guidance which made me feel “Okay, I’m not going to move to a totally strange city, at least I know someone and something”.
I began my studies at JYU, starting with the "My Finnish" course, which was enjoyable and introduced me to fellow international students and Finnish culture. In my opinion, learning Finnish opens doors to integrating into the community, and JYU offers several courses to learn the language alongside our main studies.
Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences is the home for my master’s programme at JYU, and I must admire our department building “Ambiotica” for its spacious, stylish interior with an array of lab facilities dedicated to teaching advanced laboratory techniques to biology students. The building is just over the lake called ⱹää. It is a small, yet stunning lake thus giving us a priceless view over all seasons.
Flexible opportunities in studies – even from other faculties
During my studies, I was amazed at the flexibility in module selection. Despite my focus on aquatic sciences, I could choose modules from various master’s courses offered by my department, such as cell and molecular biology, environmental sciences, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
I also had the opportunity to explore courses from different departments and faculties. This allowed me to craft a well-rounded master’s programme tailored to the demands of the biology job market. (A tip: Research in-demand skills in Finland's biology job market and select modules accordingly for a competitive edge upon graduation! 😊)
The teachers are incredibly kind and understanding, always willing to listen to your priorities and expectations. Despite their expertise and experience, they remain down-to-earth and always support students to bring out their best. My teachers indeed were a significant factor that made my study experience here pleasurable!
Konnevesi research station is one of JYU’s hidden gems
The Konnevesi research station owned by the department of biological and environmental sciences of JYU is a member of Finnish research station network. It offers excellent facilities for students to conduct field experiments on animals in their natural habitats.
I had the opportunity to do my master’s research in Konnevesi with the amazingly supportive staff of the station. The affordable, yet comfortable student accommodations, sauna, delicious meals, and breathtaking natural surroundings of the research station made it one of the highlights of my education here.
Living the finest life, finding my home away from home
My time in Finland has been incredibly satisfying, thanks not only to the quality of education but also to the additional facilities provided by the university and the city for students.
The university restaurants offer affordable meals, and the university provides a free package for printing and photocopying necessary study materials which is very useful. The Lähde University Library provides an extensive collection of subject-related books and cozy study areas, perfect for relaxed self-study sessions.
Also, the city has several restaurants and stores that give student discounts, and several flea markets found in the city are wonderful places to find a wide variety of items at very reasonable prices, from clothing to furniture and electrical appliances. The city is rich in several student housing complexes and my student apartment here is modern, affordable, and conveniently located—I can even walk to my department!!
Learning from Finns to embrace simplicity
Living closer to nature is the best part of my experience in this city. With numerous nature trails and walking pathways, the soothing therapy of nature is just a few steps away whenever I need it.
However, perhaps the greatest lesson I have learned from my time here is from the Finnish people. They embrace simplicity and they are polite and incredibly resilient. I have found myself incorporating these values into my life, leading to a newfound sense of peace and happiness.
While the university provides excellent opportunities, it is up to you to make the most of them. If you are committed and enthusiastic about learning, the potential to achieve your dreams here is unlimited. With your genuine aspirations and a desire to soar towards your life goals, come and see the magic that awaits you at JYU.
