Expectations and experiences of international students in finding employment in Finland : a case study of international students at Tampere University of Applied Sciences

Abstract

The rapid ageing of Finland's population is expected to have a significant impact on the country's financial and welfare system. It is also expected to cause labour shortages and increase the pressure on the country's economy. Hence, to overcome these challenges, Finland needs international talents. Currently, there are more than 20,000 international students in Finnish higher education institutions. However, they experience a hard time finding an internship while studying or employment after graduation and a substantial number of them leave the country. Thus, the purpose of this thesis was to explore and identify the key factors that influence the chances of finding employment for international students derived from their experiences and expectations, with the potential of enhancing their employability. This study focused on international students of TAMK commissioned by the Talent Boost Program.

The theoretical and conceptual framework provided an overview of international students' migration and employment status in Finland and the Tampere region in particular. It also included the theory of Human capital and other influencing factors in finding employment for international students in a host country to gain a better understanding of what could affect their chances of finding employment in Finland. The research was conducted as a single exploratory case study by employing a quantitative approach. The primary data was collected by using an online questionnaire.

The thesis findings showed that the key factors influencing the chances of finding employment for TAMK international students in Finland are human capital factors such as the level of the Finnish language, previous work and internship experience in Finland, and the field of study. Cultural capital factors such as proper integration into the Finnish culture and working life. Social capital factors such as applying for positions through networks. Lastly, the negative attitude of employers in Finland and the role of TAMK are also one of the major influencing factors. Therefore, one significant method to improve the status quo and fully utilize the international talents already residing in the Tampere region is to review and examine these key factors with the universities, employers, and decision-makers in Finland.