Beshoy Daniel, a fourth-year architecture student, traveled abroad as abroad as a part of the School of Architecture’s Finland Summer Architecture Institute in Helsinki, Finland. 

“Ever since I wanted to study architecture, one of the motives that led me towards the career was the beauty and the embracement of materials in Scandinavian architecture,” Daniel said. “I’ve been in love with Scandinavian architecture and their culture, in how they depict a sense of minimalism and elegance not only in their day-to-day lives but also in design.” 

The 15-credit hour program spans May to August and satisfies the program’s off-campus requirement. Students studied at Aalto University, named in honor of Alvar Aalto, a prominent Finnish architect and designer. 

“Another motivation for me to select the program was being at Aalto University and learning the history and architecture that defines the pragmatics and identity of the country that has uplifted in recent years. This program allowed me to have an additional layer of conceptual and design knowledge that will play a vital role in my future practice.” 

Throughout the program, students could travel independently and as part of the curriculum. 

“One of the memorable experiences that I will always remember and cherish was when went to a town called Kiljava for an architectural retreat,” said Daniel. “On our second night, we sat on the beach, grilled sausage, and different kinds of Finnish foods. Towards the end, we sat around the bonfire and professors shared their favorite memories of the program and how it evolved over time.” 

Daniel and his friends embraced Finnish culture including saunas and local customs and traditions. 

“In Finland and among other Scandinavian countries, there is a holiday called Mid-Summer where people always outside partying or out for a picnic with the family for the longest day in summer. My friends and I went to nearby island where it had a festival, hiked, and ate a lot of Finnish food.”  

What motivated you to study abroad? 

• The motivation for me behind studying abroad is having the opportunity to experience different cultures and learn new perspectives of architecture. Also, to learn more about how the other side of the world views the realm of architecture in different ways than the US.   

• What motivated you to select this study abroad program through the college? 

• I chose Finland in the summer of 2024 as my choice because ever since I wanted to study architecture, one of the motives that led me to architecture was the beauty and the embracement of materials in Scandinavian architecture. I’ve been in love with Scandinavian architecture and their culture, in how they depict a sense of minimalism and elegance not only in their day-to-day lives but also in design. Also, having the opportunity to travel for one week. I’ll witness the mesmerizing architecture of the Scandinavian region in person to learn and grasp, and eventually implement it in my future designs and practice when owning my firm. Another reason is being in Aalto University to learn the history and architecture that defines the pragmatics and identity of the country that has uplifted in recent years. This program allowed me to have an additional layer of conceptual and design knowledge that will play a vital role in my future practice. 

• Can you describe your initial feelings when you arrived in the new country? 

• Aside from being sleep deprived, my initial feeling was that I was curious to experience the only “4 hours of darkness” in Finland as the sun sets pretty late in that region. Also, excited to see the beautiful streets of Finland and learn more about their culture. 

Memorable Experiences: 

• Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time abroad? 

• One of the memorable experiences that I will always remember and cherish was when went to a town called Kiljava (kil-yava) for an architectural retreat. On our second night, we sat on the beach, grilled sausage, and different kinds of Finnish foods. Towards the end, we sat around the bonfire and professors shared their favorite memories of the program and how it evolved over time. Also, sharing funny stories and laughing in the sauna during that retreat.  

• What local customs or traditions have you enjoyed participating in? 

• In Finland and among other Scandinavian countries, there is a holiday called Mid-Summer where people always outside partying or out for a picnic with the family for the longest day in summer. My friends and I went to nearby island where it had a festival, hiked, and ate a lot of Finnish food. Another tradition is evidently the famous sauna experience. I’ve always known the idea of sauna but had never experienced it. So, this was my first time trying it this summer and it was an amazing, refreshing experience for the body. My friends and I went to the famous sauna in Helsinki, which is called löyly.  

• How has the experience been studying abroad with your classmates/cohort? 

• I think if I were to define my studying abroad experience with my classmates in one word, it would be “memorable.” All my experience with everyone was very much filled with laughter. A group that has a high understanding level in both a professional setting and in a casual manner. Very memorable and stories full of laughter.