My name is Pirkko. I am a fourth-year law student at the University of Lapland. I’m originally from Tampere, a town in Southern Finland. During the autumn quarter of 2024 I had the incredible opportunity to study at the University of Washington in Seattle as a part of a north2north exchange program. My exchange experience in Seattle allowed me to delve deeply into subjects that align closely with my academic and personal interests. I took courses in international human rights, international law and one course from gender studies, a course titled Women and Violence.
Since this exchange was centered around the Arctic, I placed a strong emphasis on studying the rights of Indigenous peoples and their right to self-determination. These themes are incredibly relevant to the Arctic region and provided me with new insights into how legal frameworks and policies intersect with the lived realities of Indigenous communities. The courses were truly eye-opening and deepened my understanding of these critical issues.
Beyond academics, my time in Seattle was unforgettable. When I arrived in Seattle, I was surprised by how familiar it felt to me. It was like a home away from home. Everyone was so lovely and welcoming from the start. I also had the chance to visit Vancouver twice. The city was very beautiful during Christmas time, and it left a lasting impression on me. Overall, this exchange not only exceeded my expectations but also enriched my perspective on global challenges and opportunities.
Find the original article published here: https://jsis.washington.edu/canada/news/global-perspectives-through-arctic-exchange/