Day 6: Back to Karelia University of Applied Sciences

"Yesterday"

Koli Kylä "Holy Koli"

I can't forget the amazing time we had at Holy Koli (Koli Kylä) during our recent trip. The Break SokosHotel Koli Kylä, Kahvila Lentävä Luuta, and Kolin kansallispuisto left a lasting impression on me. It was incredible to witness this small town's strong sense of community, where collaboration takes precedence over competition, fostering social sustainability.


What do you think about the deer that behind me?😅

Kahvila Lentävä Luuta
Looks like witches' brooms! 😆
Recycled lace picture at Kolin kansallispuisto

Recycled lace picture at Kolin kansallispuisto


Hiking in Koli National Park:

Despite my initial concerns about my knee injury, the support from my professors and peers turned this trip into an unforgettable experience. It was a powerful reminder of the strength of a supportive community and the joy that comes from shared experiences. This hike was not just a physical journey but a metaphorical one, symbolizing overcoming obstacles with the help of a united and positive group

375 m above the see level!
375 m above the see level


Dr. Anahit #AdventureTime #

375 m above the see level

Simo, #NatureLover #


Finnish & Canadian "Leaping into adventure!



"Today"

Second Time at Karelia University of Applied Sciences

it was 8:30 am and our professors(Dr. Anahit Armenakyan and Dr. Anahita Bareghen) were waiting for us in the hotel lobby every morning to make sure we were on time. Some of us took the bus with the professors, some biked, and some even took scooters to get to Karelia.


Larissa, Evan, and Olga



Karelia’s Green Lung

Upon entering the campus, I was immediately struck by the verdant plant wall—a living tapestry that purifies our air and adorns our space with nature’s artistry. It stands as a testament to Karelia’s commitment to sustainable living.


The Plants Wall


Collaborative Endeavors

Our day began with group work on our final project. Each group had to develop a project based on our experiences in Finland. Additionally, we had a valuable discussion session with Dr. Anahita Bareghen about our project. Her guidance helped us organize our thoughts and refine our ideas. We also had the opportunity to interview Finnish students, whose insights proved to be incredibly valuable, making our work both productive and enjoyable.

 


Zenia with Dr. Anahita


Interviewing some Finnish Students to gather information



Had a lot of fun using it!


Unexpected Connections:

During our discussion with the Finnish students, Coach Daniel Bageberg surprised us by arriving in a Nipissing University t-shirt. This gesture bridged the distance between our diverse academic worlds, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect.

Coach Daniel Bageberg


Circutus Assignment:

After the lunch break, we had a meeting with Circutus’s entrepreneur Lotta Lilja, and the Finnish team about the Circutus project sparring. The main idea behind this project is about renting out items you own but don't often use. Circutus asked us to generate more ideas on how to expand their network and maximize their platform to reach more customers and partners. This is an interesting project, and it inspired me to think about starting a business renting out fancy dresses for proms, weddings, and other events—items we typically wear only once. This approach promotes a sustainable economic way to manage our belongings. At the end of our meeting, Lotta Lilja surprised us with a lovely gift.

 


Slides from the Sparring Presentation



Lotta's gift to us all!


The Usual Debriefing:

Afterward, we had the usual debriefing with our professors, Dr. Anahit and Dr. Anahita, about their feedback on our work today and what is on our agenda for tomorrow. Their insights were valuable, helping us understand areas for improvement and what to focus on next. Looking forward to another productive day!


A Lifetime of Memories and Lessons

The day ended with a walk back to Green Stare Hotel, and I can honestly say it was a day that lifted my spirits and made me feel truly alive.

The little Angel is watching


This trip has been so much more than just educational—it's been a life-changing experience. I've learned valuable lessons about community, sustainability, and collaboration that I'll carry with me forever. I'm truly grateful for the opportunities provided by  #iLEAD_Expeditions2024 #GlobalSkillsCA #CompétencesMondialesCA #NipissingUniversity_SchoolofBusiness #NipissingUniversity



Written by: Hayam

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