Linda Andersson reflects on journey from working-class background to university student in Helsinki

Linda Andersson, now 36, reflects on her journey from a working-class background to becoming a university student. After finishing ninth grade, she faced the pivotal decision of her future education, initially opting for vocational training as a practical choice over high school. Growing up in a family where her mother was a cleaner and her late father was a carpenter, she felt little guidance from her parents regarding academic pursuits. Her older sister’s high school education ultimately influenced Andersson to follow a similar path.

Despite her ambitions in high school, she never contemplated applying to university due to her background. Her mother expressed pride when Andersson graduated high school, yet the underlying belief persisted that workers should remain in their roles. Research indicates a strong correlation between parents’ educational levels and their children’s choices, with students from wealthier, highly educated families more likely to pursue high school and higher education.

After graduating as a nurse in 2013, Andersson experienced a profound personal crisis with the unexpected death of her younger sister, prompting a reevaluation of her life priorities. During a night shift, she decided to pursue studies in theology, a subject that had intrigued her in high school. In 2018, she was accepted into the University of Helsinki, an achievement that felt surreal to her.

Andersson wants to encourage young people to trust their instincts and explore their desires rather than simply accepting societal expectations, emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment in educational choices.