Making friends in Oulu
The biggest surprise? The silence. In a place where introversion is almost a community trait, I quickly learned that striking up a conversation with a stranger doesn’t always yield a response.
Take my Finnish neighbour, for example. To this day, I haven’t managed to say “hi” to him. Sometimes, I even wonder if he waits for me to leave before stepping out of his apartment. And honestly, his quiet demeanour seems to be rubbing off on me—it’s been a while since I’ve even nodded in his direction.
But fear not! If you’re an extrovert like me, feeling a little out of place in a culture that values silence and personal space, I’m here to be your beacon of light. The good news? You’re not alone. Oulu is a city brimming with diversity, and while the Finns may be reserved, there’s a vibrant international community waiting to welcome you with open arms.
Breaking the stereotype: not every Finn is quiet
Let’s clear up a common misconception: not every Finn is quiet, just like not every Italian is a master chef. I’ve been fortunate to meet Finnish friends who are as loud, lively, and party loving as I am. So, don’t worry—you’ll find your tribe here, whether they’re Finnish or fellow internationals. You will always find Finns who love to party like you do and relax in a library with you. So don’t hesitate to approach them, they can turn out to be your best friend!
Where to find your people in Oulu
If you’re wondering where to start making friends, here are some fantastic places to connect with like-minded individuals:
- Café Lingua. This is a great spot to practice languages and meet people from all over the world. Every Wednesday (17:00 to 19:00), a fair number of the international community gathers in the university cafeteria to share stories and languages. Whether you’re brushing up on your Finnish or just looking to chat in English, Café Lingua is a welcoming space for everyone.
- ESN Events. The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) organizes a variety of social events, from game and movie nights, snowball fights and weekend cruises to city tours. These events are perfect for meeting other students and internationals who are also looking to make friends.
- Guilds. If you’re a student, joining a guild is a fantastic way to connect with people who share your academic interests. Guilds often host events, parties, and gatherings, making it easy to bond with others. My guild is Otit and visiting the guildroom and wearing your overalls is always a fun experience.
- Student Ambassador Programme. The University of Oulu’s Ambassador Programme is another excellent way to meet people. As an ambassador, you’ll help welcome new students and participate in events, all while building lasting friendships.
- International House Oulu. This is a hub for international residents, offering support, events, and resources to help you settle in. It’s a great place to meet people who are navigating the same challenges as you.
A toast to new beginnings
As you embark on your journey in Oulu, remember that it’s okay to feel out of place at first. But with time, you’ll find your community—whether it’s at a lively ESN event, a cosy Café Lingua meetup, or a guild party. And who knows? You might even convince your Finnish neighbour to say “hi” back one day.
So, here’s to new friendships, cultural exchanges, and the adventures that await you in Oulu. Kippis! (Cheers!)
About the author
Sania is a first-year master’s student in Computer Science and Engineering from Pakistan, exploring the world of AI while whipping up paintings and pastries. With Oulu’s scenic views and sweet treats, she’s got the perfect setup for both coding and creativity.