Through the overseas training program, I had the opportunity to visit the Complex Systems Research Group at Aalto University, Finland—a group led by some of the most well-known researchers in complex systems and network science, Professor Jari Saramäki and Professor Petter Holme. My supervisor, Professor Naoya Fujiwara, helped make this visit possible through his personal network. One of his collaborators, Takayuki Hiraoka, who is a postdoctoral research fellow in the group, introduced us to Prof. Saramaki, who graciously accepted the request of my visit to his research group.

The visa application process was relatively smooth, as I was applying for a visiting visa and had all the supporting documents from GP-DS and the HR department at Aalto. In hindsight, choosing a visiting visa over a short-stay visa wasn’t the best option, since I missed out on benefits like transportation discounts. But by far the most challenging part of the preparation was finding accommodation in the Helsinki/Espoo area—comfortable and budget friendly options were hard to come by.

My time at Aalto University was both productive and inspiring. I made significant progress in my research through collaboration with Takayuki and frequent discussions with Prof. Saramäki. I attended weekly research meetings where members presented their work or discussed papers, and I had the chance to present my own research. The feedback I received was insightful and encouraging. I also witnessed several master’s and PhD defenses, which gave me a deeper sense of the academic culture there.

Beyond research, living in Finland was a unique experience. Being in a Schengen country meant I could have explored other parts of Europe easily, but with only three months and a busy research schedule, I wasn’t able to travel much or immerse myself in many cultural activities.

One of the most uplifting discoveries for me as a Nigerian was the vibrant Black community in Helsinki. Having lived in Sendai, Japan, for nearly six years with only a very small Black community, it was heartwarming to find a huge Nigerian community in Finland, especially at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Hossan Chapel. It truly felt like home away from home. Another memorable experience was the extended daylight hours—seeing the sun shine very late into the night was quite exhilarating.

This three-month visit to Aalto University expanded my personal and academic network, introduced me to new ways of thinking, and connected me with some of the brightest minds in my field. Many of these relationships continue today and hold the promise of future collaborations.

The meetings, workshops, and seminars I participated in have strengthened my research skills and given me fresh perspectives on my work. Overall, the visit reinvigorated my passion for impactful research and broadened my outlook as a scholar and as a person.