When moving to a new country along your partner, finding a job can be challenging as an accompanying spouse. It can be a long-term process and may take time to see results. During this journey, international professionals might consider career-development opportunities to open new doors. What kinds of possibilities are available when relocating to Finland?
These questions were at the heart of the Spouse Program Coffee Room this October, where participants explored educational opportunities available to international newcomers.
One Spouse Program member, Shintaro Iwai, shared his journey of moving to Finland as a spouse, beginning his job search, and eventually discovering education opportunities at Finnish higher education institutions.
The experience of job-seeking as an international spouse
For Iwai, psychological pressure has been the most challenging aspect of the job search process. He believes that during this critical phase, engaging in meaningful tasks has helped him both mentally and emotionally.
“People often view you through the lens of your job”, Iwai says. “It’s expected that you should have a job and financial independence. During the job search phase, you start telling yourself, ‘Oh, I can’t even do that’, and the pressure gets more as the time passes.”
Iwai emphasized the benefits of studying while job hunting, and particularly the sense of direction it provides.
“I felt a sense of stagnation when I was looking for jobs. Time was passing, but I didn’t feel like I was progressing. Pursuing studies during this challenging phase made me feel like I was moving forward – toward a degree, learning new things. It helped me mentally and emotionally.”
Considering education opportunities as an option
Iwai believes that studying at a Finnish higher education institution can open new doors and have a positive impact on his job search journey.
“Networking and gaining access to hidden jobs are very important in Finland”, Iwai says. “I think pursuing a degree here would increase my chances of networking, discovering hidden job opportunities, developing my skills, and learning from others.”
Before moving to Finland, Iwai had talked to a career coach at International House Helsinki. He describes the experience as both helpful and encouraging.
“It’s always beneficial to have someone with expertise in career-related matters review your CV or just talk things through. Career coaches are trained to be non-judgmental; they create a safe space for you to discuss your challenges – things you might not feel comfortable sharing with friends or other people that you know.”
What can education provide you as a professional?
Dušica Božović, who is a career coach at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences and herself an international in Finland, was one of the presenters in the Coffee Room. She agrees that obtaining local educational qualifications can significantly support the job search process in Finland.
Božović emphasized that pursuing education should go beyond simply earning a degree. For professionals, education should be seen as a tool for growing networks and developing new skills.
“It’s not necessarily the degree itself that helps, but the time spent studying and everything related to student life”, Božović explains. “This time can be used for networking, attending events, meeting potential employers through the university, writing a thesis for a company, and improving your Finnish language skills.”
Career opportunities through studies
Božović highlights that many internship opportunities are available exclusively to students and recent graduates. Those pursuing education at Finnish higher education institutions can take advantage of these opportunities, with the possibility of continuing in the same company in a more permanent role.
“Students can contact companies to ask if they can do their thesis or projects with them”, she points out. “Studies provide a reason to approach companies and introduce yourself.”
In this way, students often have access to opportunities that are not publicly advertised, and can even create job opportunities for themselves by approaching companies with ideas for collaboration.
Božović emphasizes that study opportunities also extend beyond degree programs. For those interested in developing a specific skill or unable to commit to long-term studies, there are still plenty of options available.
“There are various learning opportunities available through the Open University, including individual courses on different subjects”, Božović explains. “There’s also the possibility to join labour market training to update or acquire new skills and apprenticeships, where companies train you before you start working.”
Knowing your options and planning ahead
The Coffee Room concluded with lively discussions and a networking session where international spouses could talk with presenters and among one another. Participants shared their fields of interest and what they hope to learn more about in the future.
If you are an international professional living in Finland or currently looking for a job, consider exploring educational opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for personal development or professional growth, lifelong learning can complement your career goals.
Read more about how lifelong learning can help professionals in Finland