Joan Cruz
"Choosing Metropolia proved to be a great choice for higher education studies. An inclusive climate is fostered by the diverse student body and university personnel, which is crucial for any overseas student."
Read the introduction below.
Who are you and what are you studying?
Hello! I’m Joan Mhyles Cruz from Manila, Philippines, taking up my MBA in Business Informatics from the Myyrmäki campus.
How did you end up studying Business Informatics? What is your dream career?
Prior to moving to Finland last year, I was a professional in Singapore for more than a decade. I started my journey as an international student through an education consultancy group I met when I was still in Singapore – it offered ideas about the study path opportunity in the biggest university of applied sciences and naturally, about Finland’s reputation as the happiest nation in the world. Fast forward to 2023, and I am now in my final year of studies.
What inspires you in your studies in Metropolia?
Choosing Metropolia proved to be a great choice for higher education studies. An inclusive climate is fostered by the diverse student body and university personnel, which is crucial for any overseas student. To help students advance their knowledge and connections, the university provides top-notch coursework, extracurricular activities (such as the Student Ambassador program), and student exchanges within the European Union. The Master’s degree program professors - besides serving as mentors and educators for future company executives, perform cutting-edge research in the fields of corporate social responsibility (CSR), management, finance, and more.
Not to forget, Metropolia provides Finnish language classes right from the beginning of the studies.
The university’s business campus (Myyrmäki campus) is modern and exudes a tech vibe. With engineering students around – you’ll get to see racing cars on campus and other cool items, after all, the campus is a center for innovation. Getting around is easy, I recall the first few stops for me, of course, had to be the information desk (helpful and friendly staff always), the student service’s office, the cafeteria in the middle of a garden-looking space, and the library (my favorite spot).
Some tips for new international students: getting a student part-time job is possible and recommended to sustain oneself while studying. On top of that, I get to spend my leisure time with friends, visit popular touristy spots in Helsinki, and try out local foods and drinks. Finland may have an extreme climate, but experiencing different seasons will undoubtedly be what anyone will look forward to. If you are a nature lover, you would hardly spend a moment indoors because the beauty, in this sense, truly lies on the outside. Picture this – fresh air, the sound of nature, seeing people walking dogs (even when snowing, amazes me), and nature’s vibrant colors around you during summer.
I am just in the beginning phase, so my main excitement is how my studies will lead to success here in Finland!
Follow Joan on social media:
Linkedin: Joan Mhyles Cruz