Aino Tikkanen '16
2013 - 2016
My studies in the French Program at NMU have helped me on the job market, and are instrumental in my continued studies at my home in Finland, and in my future career plans. My strong language skills as well as cultural awareness, integral to every French classroom at NMU, were definitely an asset when I applied and was offered a position as a Delivery Manager for an IT consultant broker at my home in Finland. The company is Swedish-based with a large network of suppliers through Europe. I use French when contacting our French-speaking suppliers. Moreover, familiarity with French culture has helped me to understand and to communicate better with the French. For example, I know to expect no response after a national holiday, when it is common for the French to faire le pont.
I am also continuing my studies at the University of Helsinki, where I am working toward a Master’s degree in Global Politics and Communication, which includes taking French classes. I plan to study or work abroad at some point in my studies, preferably in a French-speaking country. After graduation from University of Helsinki, I plan to work for an international NGO, such as the UN. My long-term plan includes applying to the training program for Finnish diplomats. It is a competitive program, in which language skills play a big role. However, I am confident that the French language and culture skills I gained in the French Program at NMU will help me succeed.
