My Journey in Tourism and Hospitality Management at Savonia

My name is Chamika, and I’m studying Tourism and Hospitality Management at Savonia University of Applied Sciences. I started my studies in Autumn 2025, and ever since, it has been an exciting and eye-opening journey.

I’ve always been fascinated by how travel brings people together and how hospitality can make someone feel at home anywhere in the world. That’s what inspired me to apply for this field. I wanted to learn how to create meaningful experiences for people and to understand the business side of tourism. When I found out about Savonia’s program — with its strong focus on international perspectives and practical learning — I knew it was the right place for me.

Studying at Savonia has been both challenging and rewarding. The classes are very interactive — we don’t just sit and listen; we work on real-life projects, group assignments, and case studies. Subjects like Basics of Tourism and Accommodation Business and Customer Experience in Restaurants have really opened my eyes to how diverse and dynamic the tourism industry is. The teachers are approachable and supportive, and they truly encourage us to think creatively and independently.

Moving to Finland was a big step for me. The first few weeks were a bit tough — the language, the weather, and the quietness took some getting used to. But once I settled in, I started to really appreciate Finnish life: the calm nature, the friendly people, and the balance between study and personal time. I also met other international students who were going through the same experiences, and together we helped each other adapt. So staying in Finland is a wonderful way to grow both academically and personally.

Looking ahead, after graduation I hope to work in the international tourism or hotel industry. I’m especially interested in sustainable tourism — I’d love to help promote travel that respects local cultures and the environment.

– Chamika

I’ve always been fascinated by how travel brings people together and how hospitality can make someone feel at home anywhere in the world.