R Mark introduced Kaisa
Kaisa was an inbound exchange student to Brighton in 2014 - 2015
Kaisa is visiting Canada during a mid-term break from University in Finland. She is visiting friends including the Brighton Rotary Club to update us on her life since returning home on July 14, 2015.
On her return to Finland, she had to complete her last year of High School. When she graduated high school, in keeping with trandition in Finland her family had a big graduation part for her. All graduating students wear a special cap. During her summers she works as a cashier at a supermarket.
Upon graduation for High School, she had to prepare for University entrance exams. She applied to 4 programs. A very busy and stressful time for her. However, she was accepted, one of 60 accepted out of 600 applicants. The University of Turku in the City of Turku is about 1 1/2 hours from her home. In Finland University is paid as well as some living allowances. They don't have student residences, students have to find their own accommodation. Kaisa found an apartment through a family friend. Students wear overalls that they cover with souvenier patches that reflect events they attend and are meaningful to them.
Turku was founded in the 13th century. Population about 188,000 including about 40,000 students.
May 1st is a national day and end of the University year. The celebrate and have events on campus. Everyone wears their student caps.
Kaisa is studying English and North American Studies. She has another year of her undergraduate, then plans to take a year off, before returning to complete her Masters Degree.