Day 10: Kiitos Joensuu and Hello Helsinki!

After this week we can sufficiently say that we have caught "Suomi fever", with each day in Joensuu being filled with enlightenment on the similarities and differences this community has compared to our own. 

For a group of online students that are used to working independently we surely became inseparable. Our diverse personality types complemented each other which allowed us to apply a social sustainable practice using our emotional strengths to support each other during the various highs and lows that are inevitable when travelling. The diverse range of personality types we all have will aide in managing interpersonal relationships at the workplace in terms of resolving conflict and creating bonds. It can also help us to be better leaders to be more objective and inclusive of peoples differing views.

On our final night in Joensuu, we all sat together at the restaurant and discussed the highlights of this expedition pertaining to social and environmental sustainability learned during our time in Joensuu. 

A few highlights include; the sauna (of course), punk rock concert, seeing the northern lights, the accessibility of biking and scootering to Karelia and around town, along with the connections that were made. As we got acquainted with the students and the learning style at Karelia Y-akatemia, we recognized the gradual progression and were able to work together to proficiently produce our very own dialogue for the Karelia students. 

These highlights allowed us to reflect on the differences of Karelia and Nipissing university. For instance, for students at Karelia University, scooters are readily available, as well the campus is quite bikeable and walkable to which students seldomly drive. However at Nipissing University, majority of students drive to school, and the campus is only walkable/bikeable if they are living near the campus. Although there is a bike path for students living off campus, it is quite a far distance and very hilly. Having the limitation of driving by car can impact students habits for the rest of their life. Meaning that because they did not have the habit of biking or walking, once they are out in the workforce they most likely will choose driving to work when they could easily bike or walk. 

As "Chief Sauna Officer" it is worth mentioning again that the saunas and cold plunge were a major highlight :P. Joensuun Jääkarhut ry -Avantouintikeskus, Vehkalahti Joensuu (joensuunjaakarhut.fi)

Joensuun Jääkarhut ry Sauna

Well, its day 10 now which means saying goodbye to the educational adventure we had in Joensuu, Finland. While waiting for the train, we were greeted by a few friends we made at Karelia University; Riikka, Elisa, and Simo. We shared a few memories, and last laughs, before they waved us off on our departure to Helsinki. 

While on the train it was noted that the train had zero carbon emissions. Upon further research, 95% of all passenger trains run on electricity with zero emissions, to which rail traffic accounts for only 1% of all transport emissions. Megatrendssupport rail transport | VR Group.  By promoting this it provides awareness about the environmental, social, and governance actions that are being taking to preserve the environment. One country's initiative can motivate other countries to act in a similar way. 

As I looked out the window of the train, I admired the vast landscape that remains seemingly untouched with natural resources of fresh water, lumber, and vacant land, that sustain this wonderous country. These natural resources are all we have to sustain our lives on this earth, to which looking over this landscape is a reminder of how connected we are to nature. 

On arrival in Helsinki, we trudged through the cobble stone streets and finally arrived at the Marski by Scandic Hotel. Upon entering the elevator, we noticed the level of detail the hotel went into ensuring all guests had the true Finnish experience. Not only is there an element of wit in the hotel's writing but it is implicitly promoting social sustainability. This is by way of guests from all around the world to understand the Finnish culture to strike social cohesion when interacting with the locals.

Marskiby Scandic | Helsinki | Scandic Hotels

Finally, made it to the hotel room after a long day of travelling. While pouring myself a drink I noticed a sign in the room explaining that Finland has the purest drinking water in the world. Since this is an internationally renown hotel, people from all types of backgrounds see this promotion, which provides positive reputation for the hotel, and pleases the stakeholders of this hotel.

To end the night we went out and explored what Helsinki's nightlife has to offer on a seemingly random Monday night. We found an Irish pub right around the corner from the hotel.

I can say with certainty that before this night took place, I had never been to a nightclub that also played a hockey game. 

TheOld Irish Pub Helsinki

It was definitely a new experience, having basically a full dance floor to ourselves while watching Finland defeat Denmark 3 - 1. #GoSuomiGo

"Dance like no one is watching"

Although our trip is coming to an end, we shouldn't think about going back to our "real lives" in Canada just yet. Let's enjoy the remainder of this truly once-in-a-lifetime experience in Helsinki!

On a final note, majority of us are full-time employees by day and full-time students by night. Although this field expedition in Finland has been a never dull moment of, it has taught us to appreciate the still moments.

#iLEAD_Expeditions2024 #GlobalSkillsCA  #GSOTile #CompétencesMondialesCA #NipissingUniversity_SchoolofBusiness #NipissingUniversity