From Sri Lanka to Finland
Originally from Sri Lanka, Dinushika spent a decade in Dubai before arriving in Pori in October 2023. Her background is as diverse as it is inspiring — from teaching IT and working as a freelance graphic designer to supporting children with special educational needs as a shadow teacher.
Her decision to move to Finland was guided by one clear motivation: the country’s world-renowned education system.
– I wanted to study in an international environment that values both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, and Finland was the perfect choice.
Nursing as a calling
Helping people has always been central to Dinushika’s life. Whether through teaching, design, or working with children, she found her greatest satisfaction in making a difference. Nursing felt like the natural next step.
– Nursing felt like the perfect fit because it combines everything I love, continuous learning, problem-solving, creativity in finding solutions, and direct human connection. Plus, it’s a profession where no two days are the same, which keeps my curious mind engaged.
At SAMK, she found the right balance between theory and practice, with strong support from approachable and knowledgeable teachers.
Learning beyond borders
One of her most memorable experiences was participating in the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) in Sexual Health at PXL University of Applied Sciences in Belgium. The course gathered students from across Europe and South Africa.
– It was both insightful and fun, especially during the group work sessions with students from Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Midwifery backgrounds. I attended with one teacher and six other international nursing students from SAMK. The topic was meaningful and relevant.
Building confidence through practice
Internships played a vital role in Dinushika’s journey, giving her the opportunity to apply skills in real settings and grow as a professional.
Dinushika says that working in multiprofessional teams taught her teamwork and clear communication. She has also gained problem-solving skills, hands-on technical knowledge, and confidence in speaking Finnish with clients.
Her thesis also reflected this practical focus, exploring the safe administration of oral medications, a topic directly relevant to her daily work.
From studies to employment
Dinushika is currently working as a Practical Nurse at Arvi Noormarkku, a facility specialising in elderly rehabilitation. She first joined the workplace during her nursing internships and has since become part of the regular care team.
Her work involves supporting elderly residents in daily activities, assisting with medical procedures, and providing various levels of care, including palliative and hospice services.
– It’s a role that requires compassion, responsibility, and patience. I feel grateful to contribute to improving people’s quality of life.
Dinushika is confident that graduates in Nursing have excellent career opportunities.
– Graduates with a nursing degree have excellent career opportunities if you are good at Finnish language. You can work in hospitals, elderly care, rehabilitation centres, specialised clinics, and many other healthcare settings.
Recommendation and gratitude
For Dinushika, SAMK has been more than just a place of study.
