How my interest in AI led me to a new life in Finland

Turna Saha
Published
22.9.2026

My journey to the University of Jyväskylä began long before I arrived in Finland. It began in Bangladesh, with a simple interest in computers and technology. 

I completed my bachelor's degree in computer science and engineering. During my studies, I became more interested in how technology can solve real-life problems. As I learned more about artificial intelligence, I became curious about its future and the possibilities it could create.  

Slowly, I realized that I wanted to continue my education and learn more about this field. 

A master’s degree in AI felt like the right choice 

Choosing where to study for my master's degree was not an easy decision. Studying abroad was a big dream, but it also came with many questions and worries. I had to think about my future, my education, and the kind of life I wanted to build for myself. 

When I found the master's programme in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Jyväskylä, it felt like the right opportunity. Since I already had a background in computer science and had developed a deep interest in artificial intelligence, I felt that the programme connected well with what I had studied before and what I wanted to learn next.  

I was interested in the programme and the chance to study in an international environment. Finland also attracted me because of its beautiful nature and the quality of its education. The forests, lakes, and quiet surroundings felt very different from what I was used to. I thought it would be a nice place to study and experience a new kind of life. 

I still remember the feeling of receiving my admission offer. It was a very emotional moment for me. I felt happy, excited, and proud, but at the same time, I also felt nervous. A new chapter of my life was about to begin. 

Left home to start again 

Coming to Finland meant leaving behind my family, my home, my friends, and everything familiar to me. I was going to a country far away from Bangladesh, where the weather, culture, language, and daily life would be very different.  

Of course, I had doubts. I wondered if I would be able to adjust to a new country. I wondered if I would make friends and if I would feel at home. But sometimes, we have to step outside our comfort zone to discover what we are capable of. 

When I finally arrived in Jyväskylä, everything felt new. I was surrounded by a different language, new people, and a completely different environment. There were moments when I felt confused and lonely, but there were also many beautiful moments of discovery.  

Slowly, Jyväskylä started to feel less unfamiliar. I made friends from different backgrounds, and it was interesting to learn about their cultures and daily lives. Life is always a little better with good friends. 

My new life in Jyväskylä 

Today, when I look back at my journey, I realize that coming to JYU was not only about getting a master's degree in Artificial Intelligence. It was also about growing as a person. 

My journey has taught me that it is okay to feel afraid of the unknown. It is okay to have doubts. You do not need to have everything figured out before taking the next step. 

Sometimes, you just need courage to begin. 

For me, JYU is more than a university. It is a place where a new chapter of my life began, a chapter filled with learning, challenges, new experiences, and personal growth. And I believe this is only the beginning of my journey. ️