In order to get prepared

In order to get prepared for this trip, we’ve done some research about Finland and Seinäjoki (the city we’re staying in). This was aimed at expanding our knowledge of the country, its culture, and the different specificities.

Let’s begin with two numbers: 5.5 million and 338 424. The first one represents the number of inhabitants in the country and the second one the surface in square kilometres (approximately half of France).

Finland is a Republic and as you might know its capital is Helsinki. It has 602 200 inhabitants, which is a lot for most European countries, but is a lot less than Paris (do you know Paris’ population? We didn’t. The answer is 2.224 million!).

There are three main languages. The first one is, obviously, Finnish (91.2%), followed by Swedish (5.5%) and finally Russian (3.3%).

On a cultural level, they have more respect for each other, they’re more individualistic and can come off as cold with strangers. But if you become friends, it’ll be the closest friendship you have! Finally, they have lots of saunas (2 – 3 million, that’s 1 sauna for every 2 persons !!!)!

As you can see, there are some differences between France and Finland. But we have a lot more in common due to similar western cultures, so we shouldn’t feel too disoriented.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the city where we’re studying in: Seinäjoki. There are 62 457 inhabitants and it’s the 17th biggest city of the country.

Most of the architecture is modern, and there is a church which bell is visible at least 65 meters away in good weather conditions.

But most importantly it has a (small) ski resort!

We’re going to study in Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (SeAMK), founded in 1995. It counts 380 administrative staff for 4800 students.

During this trip we will frequently post brand-new videos, articles, and reactions. So be prepared and let’s go!

-Nicolas