Exchange Student Spotlight: Jesper Hagelberg, Business College Helsinki

January 2, 2023

International partnership offers a unique experience in exchange for study abroad programs

Benefiting from a student exchange program between Business College Helsinkiand Finlandia University, Jesper Hagelberg departed Finland for Hancock, MI in the fall of 2022 with the chance to compete in NCAA DIII athletics while pushing the boundaries of his education.

An opportunity offered by one of Finlandia’s eight universitiesinternational partnerships with colleges and universities in Finland, Hagelberg earned credit for his degree in International Business while immersing himself in Finnish-American culture in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

In this Q&A, Hagelberg describes his experience in the area, attending FinnU, and the opportunity to play for the Pride.

Where do you come from?

Originally from Rauma, Satakunta, but nowadays I live in Helsinki, Uusimaa. (capital of Finland)

Why did you choose Finlandia University as an exchange school?

Finlandia and Business College Helsinki work together so it was easier coming here than going elsewhere and I’m really glad the schools set up this experience.

What do you like about Finlandia?

I like the school environment here. I also enjoyed life on campus, as we don’t have that much in Finland either.

What benefits do you see in following an exchange student or a study program abroad?

It’s definitely a great experience and I think seeing different education systems and teaching methods helps you become a better student too.

What did you enjoy most about your experience as an exchange student (study abroad) at Finlandia?

I would say being a student athlete is something I enjoyed while I was here as school and sports are completely different things at home.

Hagelberg (2) finished second on the team this season for most minutes played (1148).

What did you like most about being able to play for the Finlandia Lions Men’s Soccer team?

I must say I liked the experience of playing abroad and I felt like my teammates were more like family to me. Playing with them was very easy and enjoyable.

What was your favorite class at Finlandia?

I should say leadership and team skills.

What is your favorite thing to do here in your spare time?

I like to go for a run outside and then just chill with my teammates.

Before leaving, Hagelberg thanked Finlandia University faculty and staff by offering mementos on behalf of Business College Helsinki.

RELATED ARTICLES & LINKS

Diploma in International Business Administration
International Business School
Majors and minors
December 15, 2022: Finlandia picks up winning season
September 23, 2022: Lions charge back to Stun Fighting Scots

Tags: Business College Helsinki, Exchange Student, Finlandia Lions, International Business, International School of Business, International Student, Jesper Hagelberg, Men’s Football, Student Spotlight, Student Spotlights, Study Abroad