My time at Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology has also been one of a lifetime, and I'm grateful to have been able to share it all with you. I have met my closest friends at this university. At the same time, I have been able to focus significantly on my studies and enhance my skills to a level I never thought possible. I’ve connected with professionals in my field to improve my knowledge of sustainability and energy.
Beyond school, I have also been able to adapt to the Finnish culture well, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to immerse myself in this culture and start to adapt to this country. I go to the sauna regularly, I make sure to keep practicing my language skills and I drink coffee just as much as every other Finn! I take advantage of being outside when I can. I have fallen in love in the city of Lappeenranta where I live and cannot imagine living in any other place now. I talk walks and runs through the forest weekly, and I spend time by the lake as much as possible. I have started to find some of my favorite restaurants in the city, as well as spots to go hangout with my friends when we do not have class. I have created a wonderful life in my new home here in Finland.
Before I go, I want to give you all a challenge. I would like you all to work on learning a second language if you do not speak one already and learn about as many different cultures as possible. If you ever get the opportunity to travel, do it! See the world like nothing can limit you. You all are smart and curious students who will do such wonderful things. Do not let anyone hold you back, especially if you have dreams they may not understand. They are your dreams, and you can follow them.
