Learning Business by Doing: How Digital International Business at Xamk Prepares Students for Real-World Challenges

Choosing Finland for a Global Academic Experience

Manoj had always dreamed of studying outside his home country, Nepal. When exploring international study options, Finland stood out as the best choice, known for its high-quality education system, student-centered learning, and practical approach to studies. He arrived in Finland in June 2024, stepping into an entirely new environment, culture, and academic system.

– “Everything was new for me,” Manoj recalls. “It was a completely new academic journey, but also an exciting one.”

A Flexible Yet Structured Business Program

One of the key strengths of Xamk’s Digital International Business program is its clear structure combined with flexibility. While the curriculum provides a strong foundation in business studies, students are encouraged to explore their own interests through course selections, assignments, and project topics.

– “This flexibility really helps students connect their studies with their future career goals,” Manoj explains. “You can focus more on areas like finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, logistics, or international business.”

For Manoj, this meant diving deeper into accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship, aligning his academic path with his long-term ambitions.

Learning Through Practice, Not Just Theory

Xamk’s teaching approach strongly emphasizes practical learning, which Manoj found especially valuable. Through assignments and group projects, he gained knowledge in key business areas such as supply chain management, logistics, accounting, finance theories, and business law.

Many assignments allowed students to choose real-life business topics, making learning more engaging and relevant. Group work played a major role as well—helping Manoj improve his teamwork, communication skills, confidence, and problem-solving abilities.

Supportive Teaching and Interactive Learning

Adjusting to a new education system as an international student can be challenging, but Manoj found the teaching style at Xamk very supportive.

– “The teachers are approachable and encourage interaction,” he says. “Classes are interactive, students are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and work collaboratively.”

This practical and student-centered approach made learning easier and more meaningful, especially during the early stages of adaptation.

Balancing Workload and Growth

The workload, particularly at the beginning, was challenging. Managing studies, assignments, research, and projects while settling into a new country could feel overwhelming at times. However, group work made a big difference.

– “Working together, helping each other, and presenting projects as a team made the challenges manageable,” Manoj reflects. “It helped me grow both academically and personally.”

An Active and Transformative Student Life in Kouvola

Student life in Kouvola has been an unexpected but rewarding journey. While the city is quiet and peaceful, it offers plenty of opportunities for students who are willing to get involved.

Manoj actively participated in student organizations, hackathons, innovation programs, and networking events. He volunteered at major events such as the *ship Startup Festival, Mikkeli Air Show, and drone seminars, and collaborated with organizations like the Red Cross.

– “In 2024, I was a very different person,” he says. “By 2025, I had experience in hackathons, innovation plans, and large-scale events. These experiences helped me build confidence and learn from my mistakes.”

Leadership in Entrepreneurship

Today, Manoj proudly serves as the Head of Finance of Patteri Entrepreneur Society and is an active board member for 2026. Through this role, he continues to focus on personal growth, networking, and contributing to the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Kouvola.

– “Networking has been the most valuable lesson for me,” he shares. “Showing up, participating, and staying active really opens doors.”

Career Preparation and Advice for International Students

Finding part-time work in Kouvola can be challenging due to limited opportunities and language requirements. However, Manoj emphasizes that internships and career opportunities are possible for students who are proactive.

– “Networking, sending emails, contacting companies, and asking for guidance really helps,” he says. “Skills, passion, determination, and consistency matter a lot.”

According to Manoj, Xamk prepares students well by developing practical skills, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities but success depends on how actively students engage with the opportunities available.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

Kouvola may be a small city, but for Manoj, it has become a place of growth, connection, and possibility. His advice to new international students is simple yet powerful:

– “Believe in yourself and stay active. Life can feel lonely at times, but when you participate in events, volunteer, and build connections, you don’t just grow professionally—you build a new family.”

Grateful for the people who supported and believed in him, Manoj now looks confidently toward the future—one where entrepreneurship plays a central role in his life