From Banking to Global Business

Manori’s professional background spans retail and corporate banking, with 12 years in executive roles and five years as a Branch Manager at People’s Bank in Sri Lanka.

Her extensive experience laid a strong foundation for her next big step: pursuing a Master’s degree in International Business Management abroad.

– The reason I chose Xamk was its flexible structure, Manori explains. Lectures were scheduled just a few days a month, allowing time for self-study and professional commitments. This approach made it easier for working professionals to balance studies and career.

Xamk is a multidisciplinary university that emphasizes practical, career-oriented education. Its programs are designed to transform students into strategic problem-solvers, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce through active participation and hands-on learning.

After a 10-year study gap, Manori initially worried about succeeding. Early courses like Academic Writing, Advanced Professional English, and Research Skills helped her regain confidence and set clear goals.

– Those subjects were essential for producing high-quality academic work, she says.

Her Master’s thesis focused on sustainability: “Optimizing Scope 3 Emissions Data Management, a Pathway to Sustainability for a Manufacturing Company in the Kymenlaakso Area.”

Support that makes a difference

Manori highlights the exceptional support from Xamk’s faculty and staff. From approachable professors to helpful advisors and library staff, she felt guided every step of the way.

As an international student, the beginning was challenging, but she overcame it thanks to the incredible support at Xamk. She is deeply grateful to department head Nina Hartikainen, whose quick actions greatly improved her thesis quality. Special thanks go to lecturer Mikhail Nemilentsev and Mrs. Slaveya Hämäläinen for their guidance in difficult subjects, and to her thesis supervisor, Harri Tuomola, for his patience and excellent support. She also appreciates the library staff for their help with information retrieval, Student Affairs Advisor Emilia Kiesilä for her assistance, and for promptly clarifying concerns.

Their empathy and professionalism made my journey smooth and memorable, Manory recalls.

Future Ambitions

After graduating in 2024, Manori registered as a job seeker in Finland and joined an integration program, where she is currently studying Finnish. Inspired by Innovation Management studies under lecturer Mikhail Nemilentsev, she plans to pursue a PhD in Service Design. She is also seeking opportunities to teach subjects such as Design Thinking, Service Design, Diversity Management, and Project Management as a visiting lecturer to support MBA students.

– Studying at Xamk sparked a strong passion for learning in me, and I believe job opportunities are highly promising for those who stay curious and embrace innovation.

Advice for Future Students

– If you’re looking for flexibility and love exploring subjects independently, Xamk is the best place, Manori says. She encourages students to embrace diversity, use all available resources, and trust the process: “Once you start, the lecturers will motivate and guide you. It’s a fascinating journey.