From Dreams to Reality – Shayma’s Student Story

If someone had told me a few years ago that I’d one day walk through snowy streets in Finland, carrying a laptop bag filled with dreams instead of just books, I might have laughed. Yet here I am — a student at Savonia University of Applied Sciences, studying Internet of Things (IoT), living a story I once only imagined.

Back home, I was a medical assistant, working daily with people and technology in very different ways. But deep inside, I was fascinated by how the digital world connects everything — from smart healthcare devices to intelligent cities. That curiosity slowly grew into determination, and eventually, I found myself applying to study IoT at Savonia, where innovation meets purpose.

When I received my admission letter, it felt like holding a key to a new world. I began my studies in autumn 2025, full of excitement and uncertainty. The first few weeks were challenging — a new language, new culture, and new people around me! But every difficulty taught me something valuable about patience and growth. Slowly, I learned to blend my old life with this new one, like merging two codes into one smooth program.

Studying at Savonia is more than just attending classes. It’s about exploring creativity and applying technology to real-world problems. Our courses are hands-on and project-based — we don’t just learn theory; we build and test ideas that can make a difference. The teachers here don’t just teach; they inspire us to think differently, to question, to innovate.

Adjusting to life in Finland wasn’t easy at first. The quiet streets, long winter nights, and unfamiliar faces sometimes made me miss home deeply. But the warmth of Finnish people, the beauty of nature, and the calm rhythm of life soon became comforting. I found a small community of friends from different parts of the world — together we cooked, laughed, and enjoyed every moment! Those moments made me realize that home isn’t just a place; it’s where you grow and belong.

After graduation, I hope to work in the cybersecurity and IoT field, protecting digital systems that connect our modern world. My long-term dream is to combine technology and healthcare — building smarter, safer solutions for hospitals and patients globally.

To future students dreaming of studying abroad, I would say this: don’t fear the unknown. It’s okay to feel nervous; that’s how you know you’re growing. Applying to Savonia might seem like a big leap, but it’s one that will open countless doors — not just to knowledge, but to self-discovery. Be brave, stay curious, and trust your path — even the coldest Finnish winter can lead to a bright spring.

– Shayma

When I received my admission letter, it felt like holding a key to a new world.