Changes led to new opportunities – Mehmet Çelik’s career in Finland was built with the support of the JYU.INTEGRA training programme

JYU.INTEGRA guided me towards a new direction

I had dreamed of a career in diplomacy since I was young. I studied political science and international relations in Turkey and completed my master’s degree at Columbia University. I first worked as a civil servant in the Turkish government and then spent many years as a diplomat at the Turkish Embassy in Tunisia. However, life is full of surprises. Due to political tensions in Turkey, my family and I were forced to seek asylum. 

We arrived in Finland in December 2021. As I could not continue in my former profession, I had to come up with a new plan. With the help of resources such as YouTube videos, I started learning Finnish right away. After completing my integration training, I applied to the JYU.INTEGRA programme, of which I had heard good things from my friends. 

More than language learning: JYU.INTEGRA strengthened competencies and the sense of community

When I started in JYU.INTEGRA in 2023, I was surprised by just how diverse the programme was. We had a lot of group discussions and various type of assignments that improved our language skills. What I liked the most was that the students were always playing an active role. I believe that being active is the best way to learn. 

In addition to the Finnish language, we learned many practical skills. The most important skill for me has been the ability to articulate my own expertise. We also developed academic skills and learned how to conduct research. 

JYU.INTEGRA has been a turning point in my life in Finland. It has had a positive impact on all the steps that have followed, and the instructors have continued to support us even after the end of the training. Furthermore, the programme led to friendships that I still cherish today. 

Studies helped me find my new career in Finland

After completing the JYU.INTEGRA training, I applied to master’s degree programmes at the University of Jyväskylä and was accepted into the LAGIC programme. 

I had come to the conclusion that the university would be the best option for my future employment, given my professional background. I had decided to pursue a PhD, but I thought that a second master’s degree would be a good way to update my knowledge as well as build the necessary network before the doctoral studies.

My master’s studies included a mandatory internship. While looking for one, my supervisor at JYU.INTEGRA mentioned International House Jyväskylä. They could not offer an internship, but there was a position available for a multilingual counselor. I attended an interview and was delighted when the role was offered to me.

Turning challenges into opportunities: personal initiative paved the way to a new career

Life can present challenges for anyone, but they are not necessarily obstacles; when viewed positively, they can be seen as opportunities to build a new life. Even though I had to give up my dream profession as a diplomat, I found a new dream job in Jyväskylä.

The training at JYU is a great way to develop your language skills but also to continue your career, particularly in academic contexts. I encourage anyone who is interested to apply for this unique programme. 

In the midst of change, the beginning is always the most difficult part. JYU.INTEGRA helped me find my direction in Finland and offered new perspectives on my situation. I now use the skills I learned in the programme in my daily work. 

The next application round for JYU.INTEGRA will be in April 13 – April 26, 2026.