Maria Camacho, originally from the Philippines, came to Finland after being recruited to work in the healthcare sector while living in Hong Kong. Later, her family joined her, and together they began building their life in Jyväskylä. While exploring different options, Maria’s husband Marco came across Gradia’s international education offering online and decided to apply.

“There’s no harm in trying,” Maria recalls them thinking at the time. “If it works, it works.”

When Marco was accepted into the Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services, it became a turning point for the family. What started as a way to stay active soon grew into something more meaningful.

“At first, I just wanted to do something with my time,” Marco says. “But now I really enjoy it.”

A new direction through studying

Cooking was not entirely new to him, as the couple had first met while working in a fast food restaurant. Marco had also worked in a seafood restaurant before moving to Finland. Studying became a way to build on that experience and develop his skills further.

The Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services programme is delivered entirely in English, making it accessible while Marco continues developing his Finnish language skills.

Learning by doing at Gradia

At Gradia, the focus is on practical learning and building skills through working in real kitchen environments.

“You don’t just study theory. You actually practise in the kitchen and learn the work. That really helps”, Marco explains.

As part of the studies, students also complete work-based learning periods in real workplaces, gaining experience from everyday working life in the field.

The modern campus and well‑equipped facilities support learning. Marko says:

“Everything is provided, and the environment is really good for learning.” 

The role of teachers is equally important.

“The teachers guide you step by step and support you along the way,” Marco says. “They teach at your level and help you learn at your own pace. They also encourage you to try new things and really learn the profession.”

Alongside his vocational studies, Marco is also studying Finnish in the evenings at Gradia’s General Upper Secondary School for Adults. Combining language learning with vocational education supports everyday life and opens up opportunities in working life.

Everyday life in Jyväskylä

Life in Jyväskylä has provided a stable and supportive environment for the whole family. Their son studies in the IB programme at Jyväskylän Lyseo General Upper Secondary School, part of Gradia. He has quickly adapted to life in Finland. Through school, hobbies and social activities, he has built friendships and an active daily routine.

“He goes out with his friends every day,” Maria says.

For Maria, settling in has meant adjusting not only to a new country, but also to a new way of life. Maria says:

“In Hong Kong, I worked at least 11 or 12 hours a day. Here, you have time for yourself. It’s more balanced.”

Marco shares a similar view of everyday life. “There is time not only for work, but also for yourself,” he says.

Jyväskylä also offers a particular atmosphere that makes everyday life enjoyable.

“It’s peaceful here, but at the same time there is a youthful vibe because there are so many students,” Marco says.

The surrounding nature is an essential part of that experience. Forests, lakes and outdoor areas are always close, and even simple everyday moments, like going for a walk, feel different.

 The city itself is easy to navigate, which supports a smooth daily routine. Maria says:

 “When we go outside, it feels really refreshing. It’s easy to move around. You can walk almost everywhere."

Lakes and outdoor spaces are also part of how the family spends time together, whether it is walking, relaxing outside or having a barbecue.

Nature, safety and accessibility are important, but so are people.

“When you get to know Finnish people, they treat you as a friend,” Marco says. “They help you and guide you, and that makes a big difference when you are learning how to live here.”

The family also values the support provided by Finnish society.

“You can see that there is support for people,” Maria says. “That creates a feeling of security.”

A shared path forward

For Maria and Marco, life in Finland is about building something step by step. Through work, studies and everyday routines, they are creating a stable foundation for the future.

“I think everything is in the right path,” Maria reflects.

“I want to contribute here and use my skills in Finland, because I’ve been given this opportunity. After graduation, I would like to find a permanent job and hopefully one day have my own restaurant,” Marco says.

Studying in Finland

• From August 2026, tuition fees will be introduced for upper secondary students from outside the EU/EEA.
• For family members of people who have moved to Finland for work, studies may be available without tuition fees, depending on residence status.
• Always check the latest eligibility criteria.