Navigating Life in Finland: A Journey of Opportunities and Challenges

A New Beginning: Settling in Finland

Kristaps Kovalonoks and Megha Goswami embarked on their Finnish adventure separately, drawn by opportunities for education and growth. Kristaps pursued his master’s studies at the University of Turku, while Megha secured a scholarship to study at the same university. Little did they know that their paths would converge in Finland, leading to a blossoming friendship and eventual marriage.

Embracing Finnish Life: Quality of Living

For Kristaps and Megha, Finland offered a high quality of life marked by accessible healthcare and a balanced approach to work. They appreciated Finland’s emphasis on work-life balance, where individuals are not expected to work beyond their contracted hours. Moreover, the comprehensive healthcare system provided peace of mind, especially with free dental care for children up to the age of 18.

Family-Friendly Environment

As aspiring parents, Kristaps and Megha viewed Finland as an ideal place to raise children. The country’s commitment to providing free healthcare and education alleviated concerns about the financial burden of medical expenses and schooling. They valued Finland’s supportive parental leave policies, which encouraged fathers to take an active role in childcare—a cultural shift from their upbringing in other countries.

Expat Challenges: Navigating the Job Market

Despite Finland’s accolades as the “happiest country in the world,” Kristaps and Megha acknowledged the unique challenges that expats face. Expatriates often encounter hurdles in securing employment in their respective fields and integrating into Finnish society. Language barriers and cultural differences can further complicate the job search process, requiring perseverance and adaptation.

Overcoming Obstacles: Building a Life Abroad

Kristaps and Megha’s journey in Finland was not without its obstacles. Kristaps, in particular, juggled multiple jobs to support himself while pursuing his studies. However, their determination and resilience paid off as they gradually secured positions aligned with their career aspirations. Megha emphasized the importance of language proficiency in navigating the Finnish job market, underscoring the value of continuous learning and adaptation.

Looking Ahead: Gratitude and Resilience

Despite the challenges they faced, Kristaps and Megha expressed gratitude for their experiences in Finland. Their decision to move abroad was driven by a desire for personal and professional growth, and Finland provided a conducive environment for their aspirations. While they acknowledged the complexities of expat life, they embraced the opportunities that Finland offered and remained optimistic about their future endeavors in their adopted home.