Environmentalism

Also a world leader in the world's current attempts to "go green", Finland is a big advocate for the preservation and conservation of the earth. For me, this is the reason why I even began to look into the Scandinavian culture, and I have wished to study abroad there. Maybe because Finland is not as heavily industrialized as America, that they are working hard towards keeping the world clean. Many of Finland's natural uninhabited landscapes are amazingly beautiful and remain abundant, and they are appreciated by their onlookers. A common theme that I have come across with the native Finns, in reading, is their devout appreciation for nature and the natural world around them. I have to think that the ancient tradition of enjoying a sauna must be a good representation of this continual tie with nature, as it is a favorite activity among the Finnish that has been around for centuries. It is usually a social experience, and most saunas are planted somewhere in the woods. Anyways, having seen a multitude of pictures in books and travel guides, I would have to agree that the natural landscapes should be protected, simply because of their unspoiled beauty. A study abroad program in Finland is something I've considered going, as it is such a leading place in the environmental field. Though it is an extremely different culture I believe it is a culture I might be able to benefit from.

Sisu

One very particular aspect of a Finnish person's daily lives that struck me, is "Sisu". It's a word that means perserverence and inner strength. Finn's live by it, seemingly, in sort of an unspoken way. Though the word is known, it appears that it's meaning is more often seen in the actions displayed by a Finn than within his or her conversation. A specific way of living seen across this culture includes having the guts to face a challenge, not back down, and face the enemy. As I have done a bit of research on the country, I have come across this concept many times. I think that a clear divide in culture between America and Finland is demonstrated by it's wide acceptance throughout its native land. Not to say that all Americans have no ability to persevere or don't appreciate the concept of inner strength, rather, it isn't understood as part of being an American.

Finland The Country

What can be said of a Scandinavian Country such as Finland, Sweden, or Iceland? I've kind of noticed that Americans don't think much of the Scandinavian countries. When the average American thinks of taking a trip to Europe, in most cases, the first thing popping to mind would be Paris or Rome, London or Amsterdam. Possibly even central Europe ... Germany, Poland, Switzerland. I don't think I've ever heard someone tell me that their family is planning a trip to Helsinki or Stockholm. Perhaps it is because the far reaches of Northeastern Europe are thought to be a world away. I've found that most people know that it's cold there, that they have all or no sunlight depending on the time of year, and most importantly that it's where Santa comes from. But little information is commonly known amongst Americans regarding the cultures of Scandinavian countries. Having looked into study abroad options in the country of Finland, I have found this culture interesting, very different from my own ... but also very high-functioning. A world leader in public education systems and environmentalism, I find this country fascinating and wonder why in America it is so overlooked?