Juliana Campos was uncertain about her path after completing her Bachelor’s degree in language teaching. She soon realised that full-time teaching wasn’t for her, but her growing interest in the challenges faced by education systems led her to discover the Master’s Degree Programme in Development, Education and International Cooperation (DEICO) at JYU. What impressed Juliana most was the flexibility and the possibility to shape her own study plan, dive into different topics and specialise in different areas. This tailored approach has made her studies both meaningful and relevant to her goals.
After my bachelor’s degree, I was unsure about the path I wanted to take. I had studied language teaching, but realised early on that becoming a full-time teacher was not what I wanted. What did inspire me, however, was a growing interest in understanding the challenges that education systems face and how societies can ensure that all young people have access to learning opportunities.
A flexible degree programme combining education and social sciences
When I discovered the Development, Education and International Cooperation (DEICO) programme, it immediately felt like the right choice. It combined two areas I was passionate about: education and social sciences, and it allowed me to explore them from different perspectives.
What impressed me most was the flexibility and the possibility to shape my own study plan, dive into different topics, and specialise in different areas (I’m currently specialising in Special Education and Languages!).
This ability to tailor my studies has made my learning experience much more meaningful and relevant to my personal and professional goals.
JYU’s supportive community made my decision easy
I applied through the joint application system. Although I considered other universities, JYU quickly became my top choice because of how approachable the whole process was. Plus, being able to reach out to current students and ask about their experiences in a relaxed, supportive way made me feel welcome in the community from the very beginning.
But once I arrived, I discovered that what matters at JYU is the willingness to learn and an openness to new ideas.
The day I received my admission letter was a mix of relief, excitement, and some fear. I had never even been to an airport before! Moving abroad felt like a huge leap into the unknown. Naturally, I was nervous about moving so far away from my home in Rio de Janeiro, and about not having a strong background in Social Sciences.
But once I arrived, I discovered that what matters at JYU is the willingness to learn and an openness to new ideas.
Studying in DEICO is not just about learning but growing
At JYU, you are not expected to know everything in advance, but you’re encouraged to grow and learn for yourself.
As a second-year student, I can say the opportunities, perspectives, and freedom offered at JYU can open the door to paths you might not have imagined. For those who step into DEICO programme, it can be a starting point for a transformative journey, academically and personally.
Read more: Master's Degree programme in Development, Education and International Cooperation
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