University of Wisconsin–Madison

Finland: Simon Zulewski

Simon stands in a courtyard outside a gray, curved building with a lot of windows.
Simon in front of the lab building where he interned

Simon Zulewski is a UW-Madison junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering. In summer 2023, Simon interned at a lab at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland alongside two other UW-Madison students. Here’s what Simon had to say about his internship experience.

What inspired your interest in Finland? How did this internship fit into your academic or career plans?

My interest in Finland was inspired by my curiosity of what I didn’t know. When I came across the position on Handshake, I had little to no specific knowledge about Finland, and this honestly made it better. Going into it knowing very little made it a very rewarding experience. The JYU internship fit very well into my academic and career plans. I have always wanted the experience of studying abroad, but as a Biomedical Engineering major, my schedule has been pretty packed and I couldn’t really afford to miss a semester of core classes, as I have already completed my Gen Eds. So this opportunity was perfect, allowing me to get the cultural experience of studying abroad, while gaining work and research experience that will help me throughout my career.

What advice do you have for future students that are considering interning abroad?

Three people smile and make "Ws" with their hands as they stand in front of a red brick building.
UW-Madison students showing their Badger pride in Finland! From left: Jakob, Simon, and Patrick

My suggestion for students considering an international internship is to seize opportunities. While it may be daunting being in a foreign country knowing barely anyone, it is very easy to meet people just by doing everything available to you. It is important to branch out and do things on a whim, I had some unforgettable experiences that way.

What was the most memorable moment of your internship or time abroad?

My most memorable moment was probably going to my boss’ summer home. I didn’t realize how big of a part of Finnish culture summer homes are. Getting to be in the Finnish countryside on a lake eating authentic food was an unbeatable experience. It was also a huge bonding moment for both me and the other interns as well as the rest of the working team.

This UW Signature Internship was developed exclusively for UW-Madison undergraduate students by the International Internship team at International Academic Programs. Learn more about opportunities to intern abroad.