Where Are the Graduates of 2024 Now? A Year After Graduation
It feels like just yesterday that our Graduates of 2024 (Class of 2021) wrapped up their high school journey and stepped into a new chapter in Finland. A year later, they’ve been busy settling into their new university routines, adjusting to life as young adults, and embracing the exciting changes that come with the transition. So, where are they now?
The 2024 Graduates’ journey: Reflections one year later.
Dinara Uralboyeva, who now studies in Finland, reflects on her experience:
“The beginning was definitely tough, adjusting to a new system, a new place, and meeting new people all at once. In high school, everything felt more structured, whereas university demands a lot more independence and self-management”, she shares. The transition wasn’t easy, but it has been a valuable learning experience.
The most exciting part for Dinara has been meeting people from different cultures. “Even though I study in a Finnish-major program, I’ve met so many people from different backgrounds and cultures. The most surprising part has been how independent I’ve had to become, things like applying for courses and exams on time are entirely my responsibility”, she adds. This newfound independence has been both challenging and rewarding.
Livia (Yen Phuong), on the other hand, took some time after graduation to reflect and recharge. “Honestly, I went through a bit of an identity crisis for a while, but I think that’s normal for any newly turned adult”, she admits. “But now, I can confidently say I’m happier, more mature, and truly grateful for everything and every experience I’ve had”. Livia took a few months off before diving back into her studies, which she found to be a great way to process the transition and prepare herself for university life.
Livia’s most exciting discovery since starting university has been the diversity of people she’s met. “My classmates vary in age and life experiences, some are my age, others are 10 years older. Some are single, some are married with kids, some left previous careers, and some are just beginning their adult lives. It’s amazing to see so many different paths come together in one place”.
For Anna Nguyen, the transition from high school to university was a little intimidating at first. “It was a whole process of integrating into the new environment again, from making new friends to getting used to the university rhythm. It was a little scary and confusing at first, but gradually I managed to adapt, and now I find myself confident and comfortable again in this new environment”, she shares.
Anna has also had to balance more responsibilities, especially when it comes to financial independence. “Now, there are more things and responsibilities to juggle every day—finding out who I am and who I want to be”, she says. University life has forced her to be more independent, but it’s also given her the chance to grow personally.
Lastly, Dinh Minh Tran reflects on the mixed emotions he felt after graduation. “The transition from high school was tough, especially with the matriculation exams, school applications, and job hunting in the summer. But I’ve learned a great deal and enjoyed the summer, and now I’m ready to dive into university life”, he says.
Dinh mentions how he spent his summer preparing for university, taking online courses, and balancing his free time with job applications. “In the summer, I studied online matrix and probability, and I absolutely recommend it. In your first year of university, there are just so many things to do that you won’t have time for it again”.
What’s next for the Graduates of 2024?
Looking ahead, the Graduates of 2024 have exciting plans and opportunities to continue their growth, both personally and professionally. Many are settling into university life, diving deeper into their studies, and taking on internships or side projects.
Livia, now preparing for her first-ever internship, shares her excitement: “I’m both nervous and excited. It’s going to be a great learning experience, and I can’t wait to see how I perform in a real working environment”.
Dinara, always looking ahead, is focused on gaining more practical experience: “I’m looking forward to gaining more experience in my field, whether through internships, projects, or networking. I’m excited to continue growing both personally and academically in the coming years”.
As for Anna, she’s focused on choosing her major for the next two years of university: “At the end of my first year, I will get to choose my main major for the 2nd and 3rd years of my bachelor’s. This will define my next two to four years of university and my future career path, so I really want to make a decision that I will treasure later on”.
Dinh, meanwhile, is preparing for his upcoming summer job and excited about the experiences yet to come: “I’m looking forward to WAPPU and all the events in April leading up to it. Summer job at ABB, and more studying over the summer. It’s going to be a great year ahead”.
The future is bright!
The Graduates of 2024 are making the most of their time in Finland, balancing studies, work, and personal growth. From internships to summer jobs, they are gaining valuable experience that will shape their future careers.
For those of you who are just starting your journey, get ready, because your turn is coming soon! There’s so much to look forward to, and the best part is that Finest Future is here to help you every step of the way.
Start your journey with Finest Future today, and discover the exciting opportunities waiting for you in Finland!
