Exploring new perspectives: Lecturer Jorma J. Imppola’s teacher exchange at the University of Žilina
When long-standing collaborations evolve into meaningful professional traditions, they enrich not only institutions but entire academic communities. Lecturer Jorma J. Imppola, a seasoned educator with more than three decades of experience in Finnish higher education, recently returned from yet another teacher exchange at the University of Žilina, Slovakia—a partnership that traces its roots back to the 1990s.
A career chaped by international cooperation
Jorma began his academic journey at the former Entrepreneurial School Campus in Kauhava and continued building his career at SEAMK as a full-time staff member from 2014 onward. His connection with the University of Žilina started much earlier, during his time as a researcher and part-time lecturer at Vaasa University. Those early ties eventually led him to help establish Erasmus cooperation between SEAMK and Žilina—a relationship he has nurtured ever since.
For him, participating in teacher exchanges is driven by a simple principle: every exchange brings something new to learn.
Teaching across cultures
During his annual exchange period in Žilina, Jorma teaches a range of subjects—such as Sustainability and Management and Product Life Cycle—across three faculties. He has watched the academic environment transform over the decades. In the early years, English-taught courses were rare, and Slovak students often struggled with English communication. Today, the university offers a strong portfolio of English-language courses, and students engage confidently and enthusiastically.
The learning environment itself feels surprisingly familiar. “Slovak and Finnish students are more alike than different,” Jorma notes. Whether in Seinäjoki or Žilina, students still choose seats from the back row forward! What stands out in Slovakia, however, is the students’ enjoyment of interactive teaching methods—workshops, brainstorming sessions, and other hands-on approaches. After classes, many students stay behind to offer feedback or share new ideas.
Strengthening academic partnerships
Collaboration with Slovak colleagues remains a highlight of the exchange. In addition to teaching, Jorma schedules meetings with faculty members, helping sustain long-term cooperation. He has also encouraged many SEAMK teachers to join Erasmus exchanges—particularly important as he approaches retirement and wishes to ensure that the partnership continues to thrive.
A recent focus of joint discussions has been the “lost student” phenomenon, observed both in Finland and Slovakia. Educators in both countries share a growing concern that some young people feel uncertain about their futures. Together, they have been exploring how teachers can help students regain confidence and a sense of purpose.
Insights for SEAMK students
Beyond teaching, Jorma brings back valuable insights for SEAMK’s internationalisation efforts. He highlights several strengths of studying in Žilina:
- A broad and growing selection of English-taught courses
- A lively student culture with strong social connections
- Affordable living costs
- A vibrant sports scene
- Convenient travel opportunities to nearby countries such as Austria and Czechia
For Finnish students, he says, the welcoming environment and active campus life can be especially rewarding.
Life in Žilina: Nature, culture, and community
Outside the classroom, Žilina offers its own unique charm. Surrounded by mountains and natural beauty, the city provides breathtaking outdoor experiences—on clear nights, the Milky Way can even be seen overhead. The city’s cafés, pubs, and restaurants serve as warm social spaces for students, creating a sense of community. Local traditions, including the Slovak version of Vappu, add to the cultural richness.
Why teacher exchanges matter
Jorma believes firmly in the value of teacher mobility. With Erasmus and now the HEROES European University Alliance, opportunities for international experiences are more accessible than ever. Exchanges help build networks, inspire new ideas, and strengthen SEAMK’s global presence.
He encourages teachers to try it—even if they feel unsure about their English skills. “Finnish teachers speak good enough English,” he says. “The first time is always the hardest, but after that, it becomes a routine—and something to look forward to. It can even feel like a small vacation.”
Three words to sum it all up
For Jorma, the experience of teaching in Žilina is:
- Experience – cultures and teaching
- Introduction – new colleagues and friends
- Eye‑opening shared experiences – students are not so different in another country
And perhaps most importantly gaining new friends and colleagues.
Written by Rebekah Luoma