Jyoti’s Story: From Nepal to Finland, from Student to Nurse

Jyoti Sinchuri, who moved from Nepal to Finland and is currently working as a nurse at Kuopio University Hospital (KYS), shares her story:

My name is Jyoti sinchuri and I am currently working as a registered nurse at Kuopio University Hospital KYS in Gastro- and urological surgery unit. I’m from Nepal, and my journey to Finland started back in 2020 when I came to Finland as an international student.

Before moving to Finland, I was working ad registered nurse in Nepal. I worked there for about almost 4 years in hospital. I loved my work, but I always had a desire to grow professionally, challenge myself, and to explore how nursing is practiced in different parts of the world. That’s when I decided to apply to study nursing abroad and I chose Finland because of strong healthcare system, high-quality education, and reputation for safety and equality.

In 2019 I was accepted into the Bachelor of Nursing program but because of visa and covid situation I came in 2020 at Savonia University of Applied Sciences in Kuopio. Moving to a new country was both exciting and overwhelming. The first big challenge was, of course, the language and the weather. Although my studies were in English, daily life and clinical placements often required Finnish, so I had to learn the language alongside my studies. It wasn’t easy, but with time, practice, and support from friends and teachers, work colleagues I got better.

Another challenge was adapting to a completely different healthcare system. But I saw it as an opportunity to learn and grow. The education at Savonia was very hands-on, and the clinical practice placements helped me build confidence.

There were moments when I felt homesick or doubted myself, especially during COVID-19, when everything was uncertain. But I reminded myself why I came here — for a better future, not only for myself, but also to be able to contribute more meaningfully to the profession I love.

I graduated in December 2023, and soon after, I got opportunity to work at KYS. That moment felt like a big achievement for me and not just the end of a long journey, but the beginning of a new one. Working at KYS has been such a positive experience. The staff here are welcoming, professional, and always willing to help. I feel respected and included, and every day I get to learn something new. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I also know that I’m in the right place to do that.

In my free time, I enjoy going for walks, hiking in nature, and dancing, as these activities help me relax and stay active. I find the work-life balance in Finland to be very good; there is always adequate rest time, and people are not expected to work excessively. This allows for a healthy routine and personal well-being.

The working culture in Finland is quite different from than in my home country. For example, Finnish workplaces are usually more relaxed and based on trust, where employees manage their own time and punctuality is highly valued. Social interaction is more frequent in Nepal, while Finnish culture tends to value personal space and quietness. In the future, I plan to continue developing my skills, gain more professional experience in Finland, explore its beautiful nature. I hope to build a stable and fulfilling life here both professionally and personally.

Looking back, I’m proud of the path I’ve taken from Nepal to Finland, from student to nurse. I’m the first person in my family to go abroad for studies, and that’s something I feel truly proud of. It wasn’t an easy decision to leave home and start over in a completely new country, but I was determined to take this step for my future. Throughout this journey, I’ve never been alone. I want to sincerely thank my parents, my entire family, and especially my husband. Their constant support, encouragement, and belief in me gave me the strength to keep going, even during the most difficult times. Without their love and understanding, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

There were many challenges, but every challenge taught me something new, I’m grateful for the opportunity and I hope to continue growing here, both professionally and personally.

Photos: Jyoti Sinchuri