Exchange student interview

Utisintervju

Text: Jonatan Svahn Bilder: Giulia Sommariva

As the spring semester nears it’s end so does the time here in Helsinki for our exchange students. During the last four months a lot has happened so we interviewed Giulia Sommariva, a master’s student, who has done her exchange at Hanken this spring, to see what her experience in Helsinki was like.

Introduce yourself

Hi there! My name is Giulia and I am 25 years old. I study Consumer Science at the Technical University of Munich and am currently in the second year of my Master’s degree

Why did you choose Helsinki and Hanken?

Even though I come from Germany, I have lived the majority of my life in Italy. Therefore, I feel very close to the Southern European culture and lifestyle. My first impulse was to go to Spain or Portugal, but then I decided that this could be the chance to experience a completely different reality from the one I know and that is why I decided to apply for Helsinki and Hanken. I can now say that I made an excellent choice!

How do studies differ from you home university/universities?

In my home university lectures are meant to provide a big amount of theory, which is then tested with a final exam most of the time. You don’t have that much stress during the semester, but only at the end. Here in Hanken it is completely the opposite. Due to the two period system and a number of assignments and presentations, the study load is more evenly distributed. Also the transmission of content feels different. Rather than just providing you the theory lecturers make you elaborate it yourself.

Giulia Sommariva

How does the student life differ?

I have probably experienced student life more at Hanken than at my one home university, as I started my semester with covid and therefore didn’t spend any time on campus. I love the fact that Hanken is a rather small university, as you feel immediately cozy and like you know everyone. At this point it must be also said that my experience has been so great here, thanks to the amazing squad of EC tutors, who are always super committed in trying to give us the best Erasmus ever.

Have you had any culture shocks, if yes what?

As I came directly from Italy the first two weeks have really been quite hard on me. I knew what was awaiting me, but when I actually faced the cold and especially the darkness it was quite harsh. On the bright side we arrived with the worse and knew it was only going to get better.

What is your best memory from the exchange?

It is very hard to define one best memory at this point. I really enjoyed the Lapland trip, which EC organised for us in February. That felt like entering the winter wonderland idea I had of Finland before coming here. We definitely had a blast!

Do you have a favourite cafe or restaurant in Helsinki?

I think the terrace of Löyly is a great place for drinking a glass of Aperol Spritz with your friends, while enjoying the amazing view. Feels like being on a boat! For eating I enjoy to go to Green Hippo and Skiffer.

If anyone from Hanken comes to your hometown/university what should they do or experience?

Munich has something for everyone. It is full of restaurants, bars and of course beer gardens. It is amazing especially in summer, as then people just meet up at the Isar or in Englischer Garten to have a drink and enjoy the sun. If you like to hike, there are plenty of beautiful mountains and lakes nearby. This year final Oktoberfest is happening again, after two years of break, so that is definitely something you don’t want to miss!

What have been your favourite and least favourite things about Finland?

What I love about Finland is the mindset of the Finns. They are really fond of their country and when you as an exchange student are granted to be a part of this exclusive club that is Finland, it feels quite special. I also really love the Finnish sauna experience! I really don’t enjoy Finnish winter. It is way too cold for me and I miss the sunlight a lot.