Can Helsinki impress a Chicagoan in just five weeks?

What happens when a woman in tech swaps the streets of Chicago for the breezy charm of Helsinki? For Audrey Rich, a four-year ‘veteran’ at Finnish software company Sievo, the answer lies in an inspiring mix of career growth, cultural discovery, and the smallest everyday joys of her new home. But are these two cities 4,500 miles apart so different after all?

a woman in a black coat
Helsinki Partners

Originally from Chicago, Audrey Rich’s only take on Finland was her working for the Finnish tech company Sievo from her home country. But about a year ago, she started craving for a new adventure – one that would take her to the heart of the company’s operations.

“I’d been working for Sievo for four years as a Senior Solution Consultant in Chicago, and just really wanted to connect with the team working in the headquarters. I wanted to experience the Finnish side of our company.”
Audrey had visited Finland a few times for work but was ready to make Helsinki her new home. Now the only decision left was to pick a season for the big move.

“I landed five weeks ago in October – probably the gloomiest time! I thought I’d get settled in over the winter, and then be ready to enjoy the famous Finnish summer.”

But how does she feel about Helsinki now that she’s a resident?

“It’s very different from Chicago, but somehow alike at the same time. It’s smaller and has this really friendly, European vibe with all the museums, cute wine bars, and little shops around every corner.”

Of course, adjusting to a new country has its moments. Setting up essentials like a bank account was a bit tricky, but the warm and helpful spirit of Helsinkians stood out. Her work environment and colleagues at the Finnish data-driven tech company Sievo have also been a major anchor.
“I got so much help from my colleagues, but even strangers went out of their way to guide me through things. It’s a level of kindness that’s really refreshing.”

Photo Helsinki Partners
a woman sitting on a bench

Calm hotspot

Helsinki

Photo Julia Wiberg & Louise Edlund Winblad
Danish Nina Beier exhibition at Kiasma

A hotspot for tech talent and intuitive recycling

Audrey imagined Helsinki would be just another modest-sized European city. She was pleasantly surprised by how ambitious and lively the tech scene turned out to be.

“There are so many startups and young people launching amazing ventures here. Even Sievo partners with some of these new companies to bring fresh ideas into our work. I never knew Helsinki was such a hotspot for tech talent, it’s really inspiring.”
Audrey is also fascinated by Helsinki’s approach to sustainability.

“The secondhand culture here is amazing. People really prioritize buying and reusing vintage or secondhand items instead of always opting for something new, and I think that mindset is fantastic.” mus

In the same spirit, one of the biggest but most positive culture shocks was the Finnish recycling system.

“Everythings so organised! There’s a dedicated bin for everything. It’s just a lot more intuitive than back in the US. You feel good about doing your part, and here the city makes it easy for you.”

A little taste of home

Audrey’s first weeks have already offered highlights, from a Halloween rave to weekend trips exploring local museums. She has also enjoyed museum-hopping at places like the Ateneum, Kiasma and the Design Museum, with regular stops at museum cafés or to her favourite Bar Petiit for people-watching.
One surprise has been the local coffee culture. “Everyone here drinks filter coffee – just like in the US. I love finding that on every menu, it’s a little taste of home!”

When asked what’s her highlight so far, on top of the ones already mentioned Audrey has noticed the smallest little details that add up to her feeling of cosiness.

“The little details around Helsinki make it feel alive and warm. People here put so much care into making their spaces beautiful, from a thoughtfully placed plant to a warm little light in a shop window.”

What’s next for Audrey?

As she keeps settling into Helsinki, Audrey is already looking forward to summer in Finland.

“I can’t wait to explore the countryside, spend time by the lakes, and maybe get my family to visit so they can experience this amazing place with me.”

Audrey’s journey has just begun, but she’s already making Helsinki her home, one beautiful detail at a time. And with her optimistic spirit and open mind, Audrey’s journey here is just beginning.

See Helsinki through Audrey’s eyes: Explore Helsinki’s tech scene at hubs like Maria 01 and Slush. Shop secondhand gems at local vintage stores and markets. Visit iconic museums like Kiasma and Ateneum or enjoy a cozy café experience.