Student stories
More than I could imagine!
Minhao Zhang works at Nokia in Espoo as a software developer. He studied Business Information Technology in Lahti University of Applied Sciences.
Tell us something about yourself.
– I was born in 1985, so I will be 23 years in this September. I am from Nanchang, China. I love playing football and basketball during my spare time.
What did you study in Lahti?
– I studied Business Information Technology in Lahti.
– My studies mainly concentrated on .NET framework programming as well as Java technologies. They are very popular now in the IT branch. Apart from that, my studies also consisted with many information management topics. They have given me a good understanding of business logics from some higher perspectives. In my opinion, these should be really helpful for my future career, as well.
How did you find your way to Lahti University of Applied Sciences?
– It was a friend who lived in Finland and told me about Lahti University of Applied Sciences. I took the admission test in Shanghai, China in March 2003. The test was host by Finnish ministry of education.
– Upon having the school's admission, I needed to apply for a study visa from the Finnish embassy in Beijing. I arrived at Lahti in August 2003 and spent the next three and half years in Lahti.
What were the most interesting or useful parts in your studies?
– I think it was programming, because now I am working in this branch and what I learned at school really helped me a lot.
– It was also interesting in my studies that Lahti University of Applied Sciences is in the European student exchange programme. It gave me a good chance to know people from outside of Finland. I made a lot of friends who come from Spain, France, Greece and all over the Europe. As a result, I have learnt a lot of different cultures.
To whom would you recommend Degree Programme in Business Information Technology?
– To those who would like to study practical computing science. This degree programme is especially focused on hand-on teaching and it really can help you to become a good professional in this industry.
What are the best things in Lahti and in Finland?
– I think the most interesting thing to experience in Finland is Sauna. And of course a bit drinking in the Sauna can bring even more fun…
Tell us about your work at Nokia.
– I applied a practical training position in summer 2005. Then I sent my CV to Nokia and passed their interview. I have been working as a software developer using C++ under HP Unix environment.
What do you think about your future?
– I probably will stay in Finland for some more years. During my stay, I plan to seek for a further Master degree during spare and summer time.
Would you like to say add?
– Well, Lahti is a beautiful city and the school is nicer than you could imagine. Come and enjoy the culture, food and friends!
Text: Helena Salakka