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2012 20/02
Time 20:22 | By Monika Niznik | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, International Business | Tagged , , , , , , , |

My last post – couple of practical tips

Hello :)

Application period is already over. I hope that all of you who are interested in studying at JAMK were able to apply. Now there is only entrance exam to be passed and hopefully in couple of months you will be proud of having a status of JAMK’s student.
In my last post I would like to give you some practical tips concerning moving to Jyväskylä and living here. Hope they will help you :)

First of all, if you travel by plane, you can come either straight to Jyväskylä (with transfer in Helsinki) or just to Helsinki. From Jyväskylä airport there is a bus coming to the city center, it costs 5€. From Helsinki Airport there are 3 options:

  • taking a bus directly from the airport to Jyväskylä (timetables can be found here.  Choose date and From: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport  To: Jyväskylä Travel Centre). Bus departs from platform in front of Terminal 2.
  • Going by bus from airport to the center of Helsinki (ticket around 5-6€) and then by train from Helsinki railway station (timetable here) to Jyväskylä.
  • Going by bus (ticket 2.5€) from airport to Tikkurila (more information here) and then by train from Tikkurila to Jyväskylä.

Let’s talk about accommodation. Most people choose KOAS – Central Finland Student Housing Foundation (website). One can rent a room in an apartment with shared bathroom and kitchen (2-3 people living in the same flat, each person has own room) or decide for a single-room flat (studio).  The most affordable area is Roninmäki (additionally most of the exchange students live there), but there are also many others locations of KOAS’ buildings around the city (list and more information here).

It is worthy of applying for accommodation a few months ahead before arrival, especially when coming for winter semester – just to make sure that there is still a place available (How to apply). In KOAS rental fee is paid for a whole month, no matter which day of the month you arrive. For this reason if one arrives at the end of a month, he/she may consider spending few days in temporary accommodation (fee: 4€ per night) and renting own room/flat from the beginning of the following month. One can ask his/her peer tutor for more information.

Concerning ways of travelling in Jyväskylä, as I already mentioned, most people ride bikes. For me bike is perfect when two conditions are fulfilled: no rain and temperature at least +5°C. Yet, there are many fans of cycling in every kind of weather and I really admire their willpower ;) You can buy a used bike for about 50-70€. There are special places for locking a bike around the city.
Another way of transportation is a bus.  ticket costs 3.20€ and is paid by cash in a bus (it’s valid for one hour, so one can even change a bus once within this time). Monthly student ticket, valid for 30 days, costs around 47€. Another option is a student 40 trip-ticket, it costs about 49€. It is a good option for people who don’t travel every day. 40 trips can be done within half of year from the moment of purchasing the ticket. When buying long-term tickets for a very first time, there is also a 3€ fee for a card charged. Trip-planner can be found here.

One issue I regret I didn’t know about before coming to Jyväskylä is that there are so many second-hand shops around the city. In these shops you can find basically everything: used pots, plates, glasses and other kitchen stuff; things for furnishing and decorating an apartment, clothes, shoes, books, games, sport equipment and many others. Most of things are in a very good condition and for really affordable price. Thus, there is basically no need for bringing anything special from home.

Regarding normal shopping, Finland has a bit different system than e.g. Poland. There are no small shops like bakeries or groceries – food is sold in hypermarkets, supermarkets (e.g. Prisma, K-citymarket), and discount supermarkets (Lidl). There are of course shopping centers and department stores too.

My last piece of advice is that when you come to Jyväskylä, buy a Finnish Sim-card. It will make your phone calls easier and cheaper. You can easily reload the card in kiosks, by Internet or in any ATM machine.

Well, that’s probably all for today. It was a pleasure writing for you! I hope that my stories made your thinking about studies at JAMK at least a bit easier ;) For all who applied: good luck!! :) If you have any more questions, just comment the post and I will answer for sure.

Yours,
Monika

P.S. Below are the links to two videos about Jyväskylä. Enjoy! :)
Jyväskylä – City of Light
28 hours in Jyväskylä

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2012 12/02
Time 23:07 | By Monika Niznik | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, International Business | Tagged , , , , , , |

What to do in Jyväskylä besides studying?

Hey :)

In last two entries I wrote about IB studies at JAMK. In order to keep balance, today I’m going to tell you about “students’ life” – what to do in Jyväskylä in leisure time :) Of course we have to distinguish activities in summer from those in winter time; besides there also “neutral” ones – not depending on weather.

Let’s maybe start from winter activities (kind of current topic ;) ). When everything is covered in snow, when temperature doesn’t even reach 0°C for quite a long time, it’s time for two things: winter sports and sauna.

  • Every fan of winter sports will find something for himself/herself in here. Laajavuori is a part of Jyväskylä perfect for lovers of skiing and snowboarding ( for more information, visit this site) . Admirers of cross-country skiing will appreciate for sure well prepared network of tracks. Good thing is that one doesn’t have to have his/her own equipment – there is always a possibility to rent it. Frozen Lake Jyväsjärvi is a wonderful place for skaters. And last but not least, if you own a sledge, find a hill and enjoy sledging :) Lake after sauna
  • Of course sauna can be used during a whole year…but it’s never better (at least in my opinion) than in winter time.

    After warming up in sauna, one can grab a towel, go outside and
    1) just stand there, or
    2) roll in snow, or
    3) swim in a lake.

From my experience, 3 rd option is the best :D I had thought I would never do that, but I tried and it was definitely amazing! But even first or second options are worthy to try (and healthy) ;) .

Now it’s time for describing summertime activities. Although Finland is perceived as rather cold country, summer here is amazing! Usually in June and July (sometimes even at the end of May) sun shines pretty brightly, temperature often reaches around 30°C or more and there is no night actually. Even around 3 am. it is still kind of brightly outside and it doesn’t get darker. The only disadvantage of this fact is that seeing stars is impossible in summer…but actually there are definitely more advantages (and one can see stars over rest of a year ;) ).

Let’s consider simple equation: Summer in Finland + Lakes = ? Swimming :D

Summer in Jyväskylä

Summer in Jyväskylä

There are numerous lakes, so, depending on requirements and location, everyone can find something for herself/himself. There are of course nice beaches where one can sunbath, play volleyball, have a picnic when not swimming. I personally like swimming around 10 pm or even during a night – water is still warm, there are not so many people around – it’s quiet and beautiful…(and only mosquitoes really try to convince me not to swim ;) ).

Fruit-lovers also appreciate summer in Finland – there is so much raspberries and blackberries around that one could spend days on just picking them ;) Cakes baked or cocktails prepared from fresh fruits taste delicious! There is always an option to freeze some fruits – just to have a little bit of summer even during wintertime ;)

Besides strictly summer or wintertime activities, there are mainly those which can be done during an entire year. Here is a list:

  • Cycling – I would personally put it to “no-winter” activities. However, there are MANY people cycling in every kind of weather (even in -30°C). Almost everyone owns a bike here – it’s the cheapest, fastest and healthiest means of transport.
  • Swimming in a swimming pool – In Jyväskylä area there are 3 swimming halls (as far as I know). The biggest one, Aalto Alvari, is currently being renovated, but it’s going to be open again in autumn. There is 50m swimming pool inside, jacuzzi, sauna, spa area, (among others) inside.
  • Partying – There are numerous pubs and clubs in Jyväskylä, so everyone can find something perfect for him/her. Depending if one wants to dance or just spend time with friends over a glass of some beverage – there is always some option. Majority of the clubs is located in city center, so one doesn’t need to stick to one place during a night.
  • Walking – in this safe and nice city even walking can be a great way of spending time ;) No matter if it’s summer or winter, if you are alone or with bunch of friends – go for a walk, enter forest, go along a lake – simply enjoy Finnish nature and peace :)
  • Sport activities – Besides cycling and swimming, there are also other sports you can do here. You can play squash or tennis, go for a wall climbing, visit a gym (even in school), practice martial arts, attend dance lessons and many many others.
  • Watching movies – I don’t only mean at home, with friends, but also in cinema. Fantasia Finnkino, located in the city center, offers movies in their original language (usually English), with Finnish and Swedish subtitles. More info here.
  • Still, one of the best options is to spend time with your friends at home – eat, drink, chat, play (there is one great shop selling board and card games – also English versions – located in the city center). Memories captured in those moments cannot be compared to anything else ;)

Well, these are my ideas for spending time in Jyväskylä. I hope you feel attracted by at least some of them ;)

“See you” ;)

Monika

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2012 09/02
Time 13:50 | By Gabriela Tataru | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, Nursing, Nursing - Blog in Romanian language | Tagged , , , , |

Despre Finlanda, Jyväskylä, JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat

 

Buna,

Ma numesc Gabriela-Paula Tataru, sunt din Romania,sunt Licentiata in Drept si sunt studenta la JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat in Jyväskylä, Finlanda . Am 37 de ani impliniti, sunt mama a doi copii si sunt un bun exemplu cand vine vorba de ambitie. Se spune ca viata de student este pentru cei tineri, insa vedeti, nu mai sunt atat de tanara si totusi sunt studenta la zi, in primul an. Pasiunea si daruirea pentru profesia de asistent medical m-au facut sa vad viitorul in culori frumoase. M-am vazut practicand meseria care mi-e atat de draga si asta mi-a dat puterea de a merge mai departe. Daca in adancul sufletului gasesti dragostea pentru profesie, atunci totul este posibil.

In continuare, as dori sa spun cateva cuvinte despre motivele pentru care am ales Finlanda pentru a studia si  Jyväskylä JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat.

Am ales Finlanda pentru faptul ca am reusit sa ma identific cu valorile si principiile respectate de finlandezi, ca de exemplu, onestia, egalitatea, respectul pentru oameni si respectul pentru munca, respectul pentru mediul inconjurator, siguranta, sistemul social foarte bine organizat si unul dintre cele mai performante sisteme de invatamant din lume. Mai trebuie de stiut ca Finlanda este o tara extrem de favorabila familiilor cu copii, deci daca vrei sa iti intemeiezi o familie in Finlanda sau sa te muti in Finlanda cu familia deja formata, ai numai de castigat. Drepturile omului, ale familiei si ale copilului sunt foarte bine definite si respectate iar beneficiile sunt pe masura.

Finlanda este o tara foarte curata si la propriu si la figurat, este o tara in care traiul este usor iar strainii sunt bine primiti. Daca cineva iti spune „in Finlanda este frig”, trebuie sa crezi ca este foarte frig, IARNA, insa verile sunt minunate, cu temperaturi care iti permit sa te bucuri de soare si natura, de inot si pesuit.  Numita si „Tara celor o mie de lacuri”, care in realitate sunt cam 200.000 la numar, Finlanda are nenumarate locuri de relaxare unde poti practica diferite activitati, incepand cu schiul, patinajul, pescuitul, cataratul pe munte, inotul si terminand cu sporturile extreme.

De ce ai alege Finlanda pentru studiu? In afara de faptul ca Finlanda are unul dintre cele mai performante sisteme de invatamant din lume, invatamantul superior este gratuit,  sistemul de sanatate si social al studentilor este foarte bine organizat si functioneaza fara defecte, locuintele studentesti sunt de foarte buna calitate, adecvate ca pret buzunarului studentului si suficiente ca numar pentru a oferi cazare tuturor studentilor care vin din strainatate, mancare la pret foarte bun oferita la cantinele studentesti si nenumarate alte reduceri la diferite produse si servicii, toate oferite pe cardul de student. In plus, la inceputul anului universitar , in mod special studentii straini, au fost ajutati de catre Universitate prin intermediul diferitelor cursuri introductive, cu informatii privint viata de student in Finlanda, Jyväskylä, JAMK, viata din afara orelor de invatamant si multe alte informatii foarte folositoare pentru cei abia sositi. Pe langa toate acestea, la inceputul anului trecut, studentii au mai avut parte de o surpriza placuta in momentul in care profesorii Universitatii au colectat diferite articole necesare oricarei case, cum ar fi piese de mobilier, lenjerii de pat, tacamuri, farfurii, tv, filtre de cafea etc., si le-au depozitat intr-o camera de unde studentii au ales cele trebuincioase.

JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat este unul dintre cele mai bune programe de acest gen din Finlanda. Facultatea este situata in centrul orasului Jyväskylä, un oras curat si situat strategic. Jyväskylä este un oras tipic Finlandez, mai putin afectat de internationalizare decat Helsinki, de exemplu. Oamenii sunt foarte prietenosi, bine intentionati si relaxati. Pentru mine,  Jyväskylä reprezinta un loc de refugiu, un loc placut si linistit, un loc in care imi pot asculta gandurile in liniste iar in acest moment, reprezinta casa mea. 

Revenind la JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat, e bine de stiut ca pogramul dureaza intre 3,5 si 4,5 ani si se imparte intre cursuri, practica in laborator si  practica in diferite centre de sanatate, spitale, case de batrani. Curricula programului este foarte bine distribuita pe ani si perfect organizata si sincronizata.  De exemplu, de fiecare data cand ni se preda o procedura noua la curs (injectii, semne vitale), urmatoarea saptamana o practicam in laborator. Laboratoarele sunt foarte bine echipate si dotate, profesorii sunt excelenti iar studentii sunt asigurati medical de catre universitate, deci, totul are acoperireJ. In plus, perioada de practica reprezinta, ca durata, o treime din toata perioada de studiu. Structura anilor universitari si curricula sunt atat de bine gandite  si planuite  incat, dupa absolvire, viitorul asistent medical diplomat poate munci independent si stapaneste cu excelenta toate procedurile si teoria necesare pentru a obtine un loc de munca. De fapt, sunt multi studenti in ultimul an, care au deja un loc de munca, cu jumatate de norma.

Daca nu te-am convins sa vii sa studiezi in Finlanda, JAMK-Facultatea de Stiinte Aplicate – Programul Asistent Medical Diplomat, daca nu te-am convins sa vii sa locuiesti in Finlanda, atunci macar vino sa vizitezi o tara care are multe de oferit.

 

Iti doresc o zi buna!

 

Paula

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2012 04/02
Time 21:06 | By Monika Niznik | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, International Business | Tagged , , , |

Continuation of IB at JAMK story

Hello :)

I hope that you are still interested in reading about International Business programme at JAMK. Today I’m going to tell you more about practical issues – how the studies look like from student’s perspective.

First of all, everyone starting her/his IB studies at JAMK has a peer tutor. Peer tutor is a person, most likely 2nd or 3rd year student of IB, designated to help a newcomer in first steps in Finland. Peer tutor contacts his/her wards well before they come to Finland, so if there are any questions, it is easy to get an answer. Peer tutor picks up her/his tutorees from Jyväskylä airport/bus or railway station and brings them to their apartments. She/he also helps in getting to school for a very first time, guides around the city and is of any assistance if needed.

There is also a teacher tutor designated for each student. He monitors study progress and helps in sorting out any problem issues. Each student has annually at least one discussion with her/his teacher tutor so to make sure that everything is going well and according to a plan.

First year studies begin with an orientation week. During this time students get to know each other, their teachers, and Heads of JAMK. Ideally there is 50-50 division of students in every IB class: half of the students are Finns and another half foreigners. Besides more formal presentations of school, programme and staff, there are also other activities helping in familiarising with others and creating group spirit. I would say that participating in first week events really helps in finding good friends ;)

Nice information for people who already studied something before IB at JAMK: there is a chance that some credits for IB studies will be granted based on your knowledge and skills acquired at previous university. For more information visit this site.

Now something more about regular studies. At the beginning of first year whole class is divided into smaller groups (in my class there were 6 of them). Teachers try to do it in this way that in one group there are people from different continents, countries, cultural background. There is plenty of group-works during studies, so each student will experience working with various people in various teams. However for at least first semester groups are assigned – just to make sure that everyone works with different people, not only closest friends, and that studies are really going to be international ;)

I’m not sure how it works in different countries, but for me way of working at JAMK was a bit surprising at the beginning. What I mean is that during my studies in Poland I of course had classes, sometimes small homework, announced tests during semester and one 2-3 weeks long exam session for all the subjects at the end of the semester (and that was the only time when everyone was actually learning). At JAMK it looks different. Students work during the whole semester. There are many assignments, projects, presentations, group-works, so besides classes everyone spends quite a lot of time on school stuff. But it really works! I feel that I learn a lot by doing, by listening, by presenting and it is not this kind of knowledge I’ll forget two weeks after exam session – because it’s practical knowledge. In different courses there are different assessment criteria, but one I can assure – grade from exam (if any) is just a part of final grade. The overall performance counts. Earlier shocking for me, but really nice and fair! :) Classroom

Another great “feature” of JAMK is Optima – web-based learning platform. Teachers publish there materials, schedules, links. Students may find there also descriptions of assignments and return boxes for tasks done. Everything is in one place – easily accessible from wherever you are. Additionally JAMK uses internal school email system. It makes communicating with teachers and fellow students easier and faster.

Well, that’s all for today. I wish you happy weekend :)

Greetings from cold and snowy Jyväskylä ;)

Monika

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2012 01/02
Time 8:38 | By Gabriela Tataru | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, Nursing | Tagged , , , , , |

Finland has its unique charm

Beginning with long, cold winters and finishing with the longest daylight time I have ever experienced, Finland has a unique charm. For those of you who have never seen aurora borealis, Finland it’s the best place to see it. It is just amazing how the sky becomes a dance stage where the dancers are the colors. The way they are waiting for Santa by lighting his way with candles…

Waiting for Santa:)

  

 

The new year at -28:)

 The best way of all during the long winter is sauna. Don’t get me wrong; once you are in Finland, sauna becomes a part of your life regardless the season. People in Finland relax, socialize, discuss business or just empty their minds in sauna. What does it feel like to cool down with snow after sauna? You go to sauna, heat yourself well in a +80 – 90°C temperature, and then roll on in the snow to cool-off. God, you feel like thousands of small needles pinch all over your body. I, personally, love the combination of sauna and snow.

The beauty of the unspoiled forests and thousands of islands and lakes, Finn’s unique way of celebrating mid-summer and the perfect nature made me want to be a part of this, to bring my contribution, somehow, to the one of the most honest and beautiful country. When you get to live here, to see the way people respect nature, their honesty and sincerity, the way they treat other people, you only feel you want to give something back.

The Mid-summer fire

 

 Wonderful, pure lake

Summer cottage 

Picture yourself fishing on this lake.

 

Just Summer

 

I think Finland makes people better and that makes perfect sense; think about somebody doing something that makes you feel better, you feel you want to return the good that you got by doing something positive. I think this is the way Finland works; this country has so much to offer that one cannot turn by doing something bad. I am addicted to Finland because I have gotten here more than I could dream of; I am a better person only by living in this country.

Dear reader, come to Finland with an open mind and heart, respect the country and the country will respect you, be honest and ask for help when you don’t know what to do and the answers will come to you. Come and try yourself the student life here, do not only be the reader of what’s like to be a student in Finland. It is easy, easy to study, easy to enjoy and easy to live here. Make the best choice of your life and come to Finland, come to visit and you will only have good memories, come to study and you will only have best of education, come to live and you will only have best of life.

See you,

Paula

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2012 27/01
Time 19:47 | By Monika Niznik | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, International Business | Tagged , , , , , , |

International Business at JAMK

Hello again :)

Today I’m going to tell you something more about studying International Business at JAMK.

Generally speaking, studies last 3.5 years. During this time every student is required to collect at least 210 ECTS credits for specific activities.
Obligatory courses from 1st  year cover 65 and from 2nd year 50 ECTS credits. Those courses are focused on business in general – marketing, management, finances, research, communication, etc. Additionally every foreign student gets familiar with basics of Finnish language during obligatory course (Finns have to participate in Swedish for Working Life). In turn, during the third year, there is a time for enhancing specific business skills, which accounts for 25 ECTS credits. There are several options to choose from, depending on person’s interest, e.g. Global Business Operations or High-Tech Management specialisations. This is more or less how the schedule for three years looks like ;)
Good news – we are asked to make more decisions (not only about the specialisation) on our own ;) 15 credits is scheduled for elective studies. This means we can choose courses we are interested in, not only from our degree programme :) Moreover, each person is required to gain 10 ECTS credits for language courses – two levels of the same language (of course besides mother tongue and English ;) ).  Offer is quite wide: Russian, German, French, Chinese, Spanish, etc. Good to know that JAMK has a special agreement with the University of Jyväskylä. If you can’t find desired language course here and University has it in its offer – you can take it and JAMK will accept credits for this. As I wrote last time – they care about students! :)

Let’s talk now about part of IB studies focused most on practicality – projects and practical training. Every IB student is required to collect 30 ECTS credits altogether in these two parts, but number of project credits cannot be lower than 10. One ECTS credit is given for about 27.5 documented hours of working. That means that usual practical training lasts at least 3.5 months (if speaking about 40 hours in every working week). I would say that this is pretty well-planned amount of time – one can really observe how the business life looks like and definitely learn a lot. There are many possibilities: students can do practical training in Finland or abroad (even in home country), depending on their interest, will and of course acceptance from the companies. Projects are usually done for local businesses. They are focused mostly on doing research. Very nice thing is that, besides searching on their own, students receive information about possible projects or practical training from the teachers. In this practical part of studies, the most important thing is not what you have done, but what you have learned. Studying – it is pretty much about learning, isn’t it? :)

Remaining 15 credits is accounted for Bachelor’s thesis. It is important to choose a topic one is really interested in (and which of course is related to business). This makes research and writing easier and nicer ;)

Now, as I described you how 210 ECTS credits are distributed, I would like to mention about one additional possibility: exchange :D For Finnish students of IB it is required to spend at least one semester of studies abroad – just to gain international experience and perspective. Other students, as they are already in foreign country, are not forced to go anywhere…but they can ;) There are so many options, so many countries and cities in an offer and only three steps between: apply, wait for acceptance, buy a ticket ;)

So, with this optimistic accent, I’m finishing my post today.

Have a nice weekend and “see you” soon! :)

Monika

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2012 22/01
Time 16:17 | By Artem Gvozdikov | Posted in International Business (blog in Russian) |

Возможности трудоустройства и дальнейшего образования

В нашем последнем блоге мы напишем о возможностях дальнейшей учебы и работы после окончания программы Международного бизнеса в университете JAMK.

Диплом

Каждый студент по окончании программы получает степень бакалавра делового администрирования известную во всем мире (БДА или BBA на английском). Международный диплом дает много шансов для дальнейшего развития, как на Родине, так и за рубежом. Узкая специализация зависит от самого студента на третьем году обучения. Кстати, с недавних пор в России работодателями и ведущими университетами страны официально признаются иностранные дипломы.

Магистратура

Для тех, кто хочет продолжить свое образование по программе магистратуры существуют несколько хороших вариантов. Первый – это магистратура в университетах Европы и мира. Второй – в университетах Финляндии (например, магистратура в университете Ювяскюля или Хельсинки). Третий вариант – это магистратура в России. Также, можно проработать 3 года по профессии и поступить на магистратуру в JAMK.

Работа

Пройдя обязательную стажировку и добросовестно поработав, выпускник может получить предложение от работодателя остаться в компании на постоянной основе. Это может быть как в Европе, так и в России. Работать можно во многих сферах: маркетинг, финансы, менеджмент в международном контексте. В современном мире такие специалисты довольно востребованы.

 

Ваши Роберт и Артем,

Дерзайте!

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2012 22/01
Time 11:35 | By Gabriela Tataru | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, Nursing | Tagged , , , , |

Professional practice, tutor teachers and tutor students

Dear reader, I am glad I finally found the time to write to you. I have been very busy lately; I am studying for the exams and going to courses and laboratories. From now in a week-and-a- half we have few exams we have to pass before we go for practice.

By the way, the first year practice period lasts for 7 weeks, and this year, started three weeks before Christmas and continues for another four weeks starting February. I am doing my first professional practice, which is primary care, in an Elderly house, a lovely place with lovely people living in, for certain periods of time. When you love Nursing profession as much as I love it, you cannot wait to go practice what you’ve studied and done in the laboratory. It is amazing to see that you can help people in need and they count on your skills and professionalism; they trust that you take good care of them.  I am a strong person, I am a mom and trust me, it isn’t easy but to me, the first week of the practice period was a shock. I saw Alzheimer diagnosed, helpless older people that needed assistance almost every moment of their lives, people with great professions such as, midwifes, daycare nurses, pilots, teachers, bank managers. Yet, they all needed help with day by day life and it broke my heart. I then knew I choose the right profession because I felt their need and I WANTED TO HELP THEM. In the moment I realized that, my motivation and determination to get to know more and more about how to help people become grater.  I feel so lucky I got accepted to the Nursing programme and I am so happy I have chosen JAMK and JAMK has chosen me because here, people care about us, about students. As I told you before, I had a rough week at the beginning of my first professional practice and I did not know what to do. Somehow, my tutor teacher and our programme manager heard about my struggle and they immediately contacted me and offered their help. It is amazing how supportive our teachers are and I could feel they were not “just doing their job”, they were really concerned about my situation. However, when my first practice period was over, I felt sorry I have to go to holidayJ. I loved that place and the kind of a support and knowledge I’ve gotten during the practice period was great.  My mentor, which is a registered nurse, showed and taught me every day something new; small things but huge as importance, she opened my eyes and made me see the beauty of the nursing profession, the passion that makes a simple professional, an excellent one.  I cannot wait to go back there.

In my first blog post I promised I’ll tell you more about tutoring in JAMK. Last summer, when I received the envelope that said I have been admitted to the JAMK – Degree Programme in Nursing, I received also a lot of information’s’ about how to proceed before the school starts, about the Student Union-JAMKO and student’s rights and discounts, information on the first week’s schedule.  However, shortly after the envelope arrived, I got an email from a second year nursing student at JAMK, telling that he is my tutor student and offering his help with anything that I needed. One of the most interesting parts of having own tutor student I that he/she will even wait for you at the railway station when arriving to Finland. It was not my care but many of my colleagues were waited when they entered the country, they were guided to their living places and helped in all possible ways. Once you got accepted to the Programme, you are not on your own anymore; you receive help from tutor students and tutor teachers.

Furthermore, tutor teachers are JAMK’s teachers but they take the responsibility of helping, advising, advocate, and counseling and support us in any cases we need. I remember my fears when starting the school and how I discussed about them with my tutor teacher; and I remember how he released my fears by discussing them one by one. I felt he cares about me and my fears; I felt I am an individual and not just a student part of a group. There is a big, experienced and dedicated team out there to help and support us, in all ways. They try to make our student life easier, they know how to enhance our success and diminish our failing.

Maybe is time to close today’s diary and go back to studyJ, what do you think? I will introduce you more details about JAMK – University of Applied Sciences – Degree Programme in Nursing, next time.

 

Bye, bye,

Paula

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2012 18/01
Time 20:28 | By Monika Niznik | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, International Business | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , |

Why Finland? Why JAMK? Polish IB student’s perspective

Hello, hello! :)

My name is Monika. I come from Poland and I’m a second year student of IB. FMe and winter in Jyväskyläor the next couple of weeks I’ll be your guide in the world of JAMK ;) I have in mind several topics I want to tell you about, but I’m willing to hear what kind of information you are interested in and write about it. So, feel free to comment whenever something comes to your mind! :)

Today I would like to tell you what is so special about JAMK and why I decided to study here.

Let’s start from a big picture. What makes Finland outstanding?
In my opinion, first of all, nature. One of a kind. All the lakes, forests, reindeer, squirrels and other animals, bright nights during summer and even snow and coolness during winter – it’s simply beautiful! Secondly, Finland is rather quiet country, very peaceful. I feel safe in here and I really appreciate this state.
Last but not least – Finland is a country you can trust. Everything is transparent. People obey rules. If they say something, they do so. Finns are very helpful. Additionally, their English skills (not only among youngest ones) are impressive.

Now, as you know what I consider as biggest advantages of Finland, it’s time to speak about JAMK itself. What attracted me most?

 1) Practicality

In my entire previous education there has been always focus put on theory. Practice, if any, was applied in a very small extent. Then, in 2008, I came to Finland for exchange and I realised that other approach is possible. OK, in Poland I studied Mathematics, so it’s slightly different story, but still ;) I saw so many advantages of Finnish education system….and here I am again ;)

At JAMK theory is just an addition to practice. Teachers know that we learn best by applying concepts to real-life situations. There are numerous assignments, case studies, projects during the courses. We do many class exercises, analyse tons of data, write reports, give dozens of presentations…and still are ready for more ;) Visitors, business people give us lectures. By frequent teamwork we are being prepared for working life. We cooperate with companies by projects, researches. There is always practical training involved in our study time.

Now I see how much I’ve learned so far even if often I didn’t feel it was learning. But, as you know, if you do something, it stays in you.

2) Internationality

For me, student of International Business, this is rather vital part of studies. At JAMK you can meet people from literally all over the world (OK, I haven’t met anyone from Australia yet, but I still have time ;) ).

At JAMK you have a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with many different cultures. Through teamwork you learn what are and how to handle differences in viewpoints. It really prepares not only for working but also for living in today’s global world.

3) English

Without any doubt, studies at JAMK help in developing English skills. Everyday students have to communicate with each other. There are discussions, group-works, presentations; all the lectures are in English. There is also a need to write assignments, reports, etc. English becomes so natural :)
JAMK’s virtue is also a presence of native English speakers – from USA, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland – not only students, but also lecturers.

4) Attitude

Being JAMK’s student makes you special. After my previous educational experience, it was quite big shock here. You are not another name on the list – you are a person! If you have any question, problem, there is number of people willing to help you.
Teachers are approachable. Students call them by first name, without using all this degrees or titles (like master, doctor, etc.). Questions are welcome – “The only stupid question is a question you haven’t asked” as one of my lecturers says. Teachers know their students, not only by name but also personality, capabilities, etc. Atmosphere is definitely more informal than in Poland and I love it here! It’s like everyone is a part of JAMK’s community. Simple and great! :)

Well, that’s all for today. I hope that I intrigued you a bit with my JAMK stories ;) More is coming next week. As I already mentioned, if you have any question or comment, I’m eager to read it and answer.

Ciao!

Monika

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2012 15/01
Time 21:00 | By Gabriela Tataru | Posted in Degree Programmes in English in JAMK, Nursing |

About Finland, Jyväskylä, JAMK- University of Applied Sciences – Nursing Programme

Hello,

My name is Paula Tataru, coming from Romania, I have a Bachelor Degree in Laws and I am studying Nursing at JAMK University of Applied Sciences – Jyväskylä. The facts that I am going to describe during my blogging period will be facts that had been written and over written. However, I will add my own experiences and thoughts to help you make a conclusion over Finland, education in Finland and JAMK – University of Applied Sciences. The reason why we, all bloggers, write about the same subjects is for you, dear reader, to see and hear different points of view, to understand how wonderful is to study in Finland and Nursing in JAMK and how something that you truly like makes you see the boundaries easier to pass.

I am 37 years old, mother of two small children, and I am all the time crossing the boundaries; they say the student life is for youngsters and as you see, I am not that young anymore. My dedication and love for the Nursing profession made me see myself a nurse already. I can see myself helping people, enjoying my work and that is what keeps me going. If you find love for the profession deep inside your heart, you will find a way to make it happen.

I will now tell you in my words why I choose Finland as country, Finland as educational system and JAMK Jyväskylä – Nursing programme.

Why Finland? I choose Finland as acountry to to live because I identified myself and my principles with main values that Finnish people have and respect, such us honesty, equality, respect for people, respect for work and profession, respect for environment, safety, good social system and not the least, one of the best educational systems in the world. Finland is a very clean country, both, literally and figuratively, it is a country easy to live in, if you respect it and its people, it is very easy to assimilate and identify with. Since living in Finland I feel I do not need to go abroad to relax, this country is like a resort, you find here everything that you need in order to relax. If someone tells you “is cold in Finland”, you must believe it is cold, in the winter, but summers are very beautiful, actually they are perfect, with temperatures that allow you to have fun and relas wherever you go. There are multiple places to relax as you should know in Finland there are over 100.000 lakes. In Finland you can ski, skate, fish, climb, swim, do extreme sports or just drink a cold drink, lying in the sun. Nevertheless, if you intend to spend the rest of your life in Finland, to found a family here, you should know the human, family and children’s rights are very well respected and benefits are more than enough in order to live a decent life.

Now, dear reader, I will upload some pictures of Finland.

Finland in summer

 Fishing on the lake where the water is so clean that you can drink it straight from the lake. 

One of the most beautiful resorts near Jyväskylä called “Peurunka”

       

Why to study in Finland? Well, beside the fact that Finland possesses one of the best educational systems in the world, in Finland we have free education, a perfect student social and health care system, perfect organized, sufficient as number and cheap student housing, cheap student meals and many other discounts on a student card. Furthermore, at the beginning of the university year, especially foreign students have been helped by the University to begin their life here by offering special courses to introduce Finnish culture and values, Jyväskylä as a student city and as a free time activity and JAMK-University of Applied Sciences. Furthermore, foreign students learn about all the necessary information on the student’s rights, health and welfare system, and educational system through the same courses held at the beginning of the University year. In addition, teachers decided that it would be nice to do something for the new student, therefore they offered, free of charge, many of the necessary items in every house, for example: bed linen, plates, cutlery, coffee makers and even some furniture pieces.                                  

JAMK Cantine for students and teachers where the meals are cheap and very good!!

 JAMK Cantine for students and teachers

 JAMK- University of Applied Sciences, Degree Programme in Nursing, is one of the best of its kind in Finland. The University is situated down town of Jyväskylä, a wonderful, strategically situated, clean and fresh town in Finland.  You will ask me: why Jyväskylä and not Hesinki? I will give you my point of view, as I have lived in Helsinki area for more than 6 years. Jyväskylä area is pure typical Finnish town, less untainted by the foreign development. I find people in Jyväskylä more willing to carry a conversation with their fellows and more friendly and relaxed than people living in Helsinki. Helsinki area is a place where everybody hurries somewhere on a constant base, where people forget to smile to a child. To me, Jyväskylä represents a refugee, a peaceful and calm place where I can really hear my thoughts and enjoy my life whatever I do and wherever I go.  Another reason to choose Jyväskylä is because life is cheaper than in the Helsinki area and more reasonable for students.

 Going back to JAMK – Degree Programme in Nursing, it is good to know that it lasts 3,5-to-4,5-years and it is divided in courses, laboratory skills and practical training. However, even thought I knew a lot about the educational system in Finland before I started the school, I was amazed by the way the curricula were organized. For example, every time we studied some procedure in the classrooms (vital signs, injections) we practiced them in the laboratory just to learn how they feel on our own skins or using the model dolls. The laboratory is very well equipped, teachers are of the best and every student is protected by an accident insurance provided by JAMK, in case of any incidents. On top of all the courses and laboratory practice, one third of the study period is represented by the practical trainings carried out in the hospitals, health-care centers, and elderly homes. The studies structure in JAMK is so good and wisely chosen that by the graduation time, the future registered nurse can work independently and has all the necessary practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed in order to obtain a job. Actually, there are nursing students that consider taking a part time job already on their last study year.

Some example from the laboratory:).  Drawing blood from the capilaries is funny!!!

 And OUCH!!!

 Now, dear reader, I hope you got some idea about how wonderful is to study Nursing in Finland at JAMK-University of Applied Sciences. In couple of days, I will provide you with more information on day by day life at school and the way students are supported by the tutor teachers and tutor students during their studies.

See you!

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