Living on a Prayer : Integration of International Students to Work Life at Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK)
Plouet, Marion (2025)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025072223658
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025072223658
Tiivistelmä
This thesis examines the integration of international students into the Finnish labour market, with a particular focus on the Satakunta region and Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK). The aim is to explore how SAMK can support local companies in employing international students and to propose practical strategies to improve student retention and workforce integration. The research was conducted using qualitative methods, including semi-structured and unstructured interviews with local companies, stakeholders, and SAMK staff.
The findings highlight key barriers to employment, such as language challenges, limited cultural readiness among employers, and the absence of structured support systems. Although the number of international students is increasing and the region, like the country, faces a shortage of skilled labour, only 40% of international graduates remain in Satakunta one year after graduation. Encouragingly, many companies expressed a willingness to hire international talent and recognized the benefits of multicultural teams.
The study concludes that SAMK plays a vital role in connecting international students with local employers. By strengthening career services, offering cultural training, and fostering collaboration with regional actors, SAMK can contribute to both the successful integration of international students and the long-term economic resilience of Satakunta and Finland.
The findings highlight key barriers to employment, such as language challenges, limited cultural readiness among employers, and the absence of structured support systems. Although the number of international students is increasing and the region, like the country, faces a shortage of skilled labour, only 40% of international graduates remain in Satakunta one year after graduation. Encouragingly, many companies expressed a willingness to hire international talent and recognized the benefits of multicultural teams.
The study concludes that SAMK plays a vital role in connecting international students with local employers. By strengthening career services, offering cultural training, and fostering collaboration with regional actors, SAMK can contribute to both the successful integration of international students and the long-term economic resilience of Satakunta and Finland.