Finnish learning community and resources

 Source: Mattia Trabalza

User Stories - My Language Learning Journey - Mattia T.

Hi Mattia! Would you present yourself to us and talk a little bit about yourself?

My name is Mattia Trabalza, I’m 28 years old, and I’m from Foligno, Italy. I studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome, in the Department of Multimedia and Technological Arts, obtaining my master’s degree in 2021. Over the past two years, I’ve worked as a teacher of Graphic Design and Communication in high schools in Italy.

In addition to my teaching work, my passion has also led me to work as a photographer and videographer. In the meantime, I’ve continued creating personal projects and holding exhibitions with photographic works of digital manipulation and video art. 

So tell us, where are you now for your mobility? 

Currently, I’m participating in a mobility program in Finland at Aito Koulutuskeskus School. I’ve been here for about 5 months, and I’ll stay until July, for a total of 10 months. 

How and why did you choose the place to go? 

This is my first experience abroad, an opportunity I had long desired to grow both personally and professionally by exploring the range of artistic possibilities where my interests lie.

What language did you study? Is this your first experience abroad and how does it feel? Is it difficult to learn Finnish? 

My native language is Italian. The language I use daily here in Finland is English. I mainly learned English at school and later improved it on my own by watching movies in their original language or occasionally interacting with foreigners. Although my grammar skills still need improvement, I’ve noticed significant progress both in my fluency and in the confidence with which I communicate. I must also say that, in every place I’ve been, most Finns speak excellent English and are always kind and helpful.

The Finnish language, on the other hand, is entirely new to me. Thanks to the support of teachers, students at the school, and the instructor from our organization with whom I take lessons, I’m learning Finnish. Learning this language is still a work in progress, which I explore daily. I find this linguistic journey stimulating and enriching.

I’ve used the OLS platform to study Finnish (though for more commonly studied languages like English, there are probably more exercises, etc.). I find it a very effective platform, allowing you to compare, find interesting ideas, and tackle well-designed exercises. It’s suitable for both structured lessons and self-study. It caters to different levels, from beginners to advanced learners, and I believe it’s a powerful tool for those who want to deepen their knowledge of a foreign language.

 Source: Mattia Trabalza

Would you recommend someone doing a mobility program and what do you think are the main challenges? 

I’d recommend to anyone embarking on a similar experience not to limit themselves to using mobile apps but to engage in active learning, including writing and speaking practice. It’s important to build relationships and live everyday experiences, as these are what give deeper meaning to language learning.

How do you like your mobility experience in general?

Honestly, I’ve enjoyed almost everything about my mobility experience in Finland. The only thing is that, as an Italian, I encountered foods that were unconventional or different from my culture, but I’m an adaptable person and can eat anything without issues. There are some Finnish dishes that I really like.

Anything you don't like and what do you specifically like? 

The cold and the darkness are two common aspects of Finland that one has to deal with. The climate isn’t easy, but I haven’t had any major problems. The cities have a beautiful history, with well-maintained places, small villages, castles, and towers on hills. The sauna culture is a must-try, especially the Finnish one. Hämenlinna is a beautiful city, also Turku. And Vanha Rauma (Old Rauma) is a real pearl. Rovaniemi fascinated me, and the experience with sled dogs is unique. The northern lights, which I thought were rare, become common in the north, but every aurora is different and unique so don't stop at the first one you see.

I also tried kick sledding on frozen lakes, a wonderful activity. Even though at first there was the fear of feeling lonely, every mobility experience connects you with other volunteers, with whom you can share experiences. You’re never completely alone, and there’s always the opportunity to make new friends. If you want to, there’s a whole world of new people to meet just around the corner.

Is there anything you would like to add in the end? 

Finns aren’t cold people—I’m speaking from personal experience haha. :)

 Source: Mattia Trabalza

Thank you Mattia! I truly hope you enjoy your mobility experience in Finland and get the most out of it! 

Would you like to take part in the OLS User Stories? Please do not hesitate to email or DM me. For more information you can check out the information in this forum post: › Get Interviewed by OLS & Share Your Finnish Learning Journey