Exploring the experiences and challenges of International Nursing students adjusting to Life in Finland : A Qualitative study of Laurea UAS students
Manandhar, Upama (2025)
2025
All rights reserved. This publication is copyrighted. You may download, display and print it for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052013414
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052013414
Tiivistelmä
This study explores the challenges and experiences of international nursing students in Finland, particularly those nearing the completion of their studies. The objective was to identify limitations in their integration process and highlight gaps in nursing education that impact their adjustment to a new environment. By examining their personal experiences, the research aimed to provide insights into the unique needs of this student group.
A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with five international nursing students from Laurea University of Applied Sciences. Thematic analysis with an inductive approach was used to analyze the collected data. Despite the sample size, data saturation was achieved due to the depth of the interviews, which provided rich insights into students’ experiences.
The findings revealed several key challenges. Academic difficulties were evident, particularly in securing preferred placements and managing coursework, with the additional burden of learning the Finnish language. The language barrier persisted as a significant obstacle in work-life situations. Beyond academics, students struggled with social integration, forming friendships, and accessing support networks, especially during the winter months when the absence of family support became more pronounced. Seeking information and navigating Finnish society were perceived as difficult. However, students also acknowledged the benefits of studying in Finland’s self-directed learning environment. Participants shared their perspectives on what could be improved to better support their educational journey.
Participants reported experiences of discrimination and judgment based on their foreign backgrounds during practice placements, leading to diminished self-assurance and concerns about future employment in the Finnish healthcare system. The research highlights how these experiences affect students' sense of belonging and their perceptions of long-term professional growth opportunities. While some students maintain motivation to pursue careers in Finland, others express doubts about overcoming perceived barriers to advancement.
The study recommends strengthening educational institution support systems, particularly in increasing practical placement opportunities, as these are essential to nursing education. Enhanced collaboration between schools and placement providers is suggested to ensure placements align with students’ learning needs and timelines. Future research could further explore the long-term motivations of students who choose to remain in Finland despite these challenges.
A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with five international nursing students from Laurea University of Applied Sciences. Thematic analysis with an inductive approach was used to analyze the collected data. Despite the sample size, data saturation was achieved due to the depth of the interviews, which provided rich insights into students’ experiences.
The findings revealed several key challenges. Academic difficulties were evident, particularly in securing preferred placements and managing coursework, with the additional burden of learning the Finnish language. The language barrier persisted as a significant obstacle in work-life situations. Beyond academics, students struggled with social integration, forming friendships, and accessing support networks, especially during the winter months when the absence of family support became more pronounced. Seeking information and navigating Finnish society were perceived as difficult. However, students also acknowledged the benefits of studying in Finland’s self-directed learning environment. Participants shared their perspectives on what could be improved to better support their educational journey.
Participants reported experiences of discrimination and judgment based on their foreign backgrounds during practice placements, leading to diminished self-assurance and concerns about future employment in the Finnish healthcare system. The research highlights how these experiences affect students' sense of belonging and their perceptions of long-term professional growth opportunities. While some students maintain motivation to pursue careers in Finland, others express doubts about overcoming perceived barriers to advancement.
The study recommends strengthening educational institution support systems, particularly in increasing practical placement opportunities, as these are essential to nursing education. Enhanced collaboration between schools and placement providers is suggested to ensure placements align with students’ learning needs and timelines. Future research could further explore the long-term motivations of students who choose to remain in Finland despite these challenges.