This blog post was written by our student ambassador Ashley Vanessa, who is a student of the Computer Science programme at University of Tartu.
The day began with us stepping back in time at the Estonian Open Air Museum in Tallinn. The museum is set up like a traditional village, complete with wooden farmhouses, windmills, barns, and even an old schoolhouse. As we walked along the muddy paths surrounded by pine trees and the crisp autumn air, it felt as if we were living in another century.
We explored homes from different periods, including the Soviet era, where everything, from furniture to small personal items, was left just as it was decades ago. It was so realistic that it felt like the family who lived there had just stepped out for a moment. Seeing those objects, like old brushes, clothes, a tube TV, and children’s toys, gave us a glimpse into what life was truly like for Estonians in the past.
What surprised me most was how familiar some of the items felt. I even recognized a few things similar to what I grew up with, which made me reflect on how cultures, even from different parts of the world, can share many similarities. The museum also featured traditional farm animals like goats, large open fields, and farmhouses. It was amazing as it was like walking through a living story of Estonia’s history.
Being part of Study in Estonia has opened my eyes to the country’s deep cultural roots and allowed me to experience its heritage in a way that goes far beyond books. It’s one thing to read about history, but another to step right into it.
After the museum, we gathered for a welcoming dinner with the new Study in Estonia ambassadors. The atmosphere was full of energy and excitement as we got to know each other and discussed our plans for the upcoming year. Everyone was friendly and so eager to contribute to promoting Estonia as a study destination.
It was the perfect way to end the day, learning about Estonia’s past and then celebrating its future with an amazing group of people. I left feeling grateful and inspired to continue sharing my experiences in Estonia as a student.
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