I've learned many things in my nine months of living abroad, but one of the most important lessons is how resilient and adaptable I am! Finns would call what I've learned sisu, which is a Finnish word meaning "strong determination and commitment in the face of many struggles."
I've also learned so much about conducting scientific research into renewable fuel sources in Finland. Here, reneweable fuel sources (such as wood pulp, vegetable oils, solar panels, etc.) are popular research areas. There are more opportunities for me here to research sustainable fuel sources compared to the U.S. Researchers here are also very experienced in this field, and I am learning a lot by working alongside them. Having diverse backgrounds in research is so important for progress.
I am in Finland thanks to a Fulbright Award, which is a payment to students to help them reach their educational goals. As a Fulbright Grantee, I get to study for my master's degree for free and receive a small income monthly to support my living expenses. There are many types of Fulbright awards, and also many other scholarships that pay U.S. citizens to travel, study or research abroad. Anyone who has the opportunity to live and study in a new country should absolutely do it! It has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life.
Thank you, Miss Jackie and Miss Julia's amazing fourth graders for following along my journey! You are all so curious, intelligent and inquisitive. Keep up your passion for learning new things because you have all inspired me a lot. I hope my journey to Finland has inspired you to pursue an adventure abroad someday. Good luck in the future, and you got this! Onnea jatkoon ja tsemppiä!
