Isaac Adaam chose Karelia University of Applied Sciences for its International Business programme: a decision that shaped his future. With a growing interest in marketing already underway, International Business emerged as the most natural fit for Isaac.
– Karelia was the right foundation for me. Definitely. It was the right foundation. Not only academically, but boosting your confidence, boosting your knowledge, changing your mindset.
Degree programme in International Business aligned closely with his academic goals and offered the global perspective he was seeking.
Empowering Leadership Through Diversity and Cultural Learning
Karelia’s multicultural campus helped Isaac develop global awareness and cultural sensitivity, essential skills in international business. From the beginning, Isaac’s leadership potential was recognized by both peers and faculty.
– As we had students from several countries — Russia, Poland, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, you got to learn a lot of things. Karelia UAS gives you the opportunity to experience this in real life so that you are one step ahead. These are things I learned in Karelia, and when I got to business life, I knew them already.
He quickly earned the respect of his peers through dedication and authenticity, becoming an unofficial class leader whose presence and effort never went unnoticed.
– My colleagues, they realized my capabilities and people respected me. They called me like unofficial class leader. If you show up, people are going to see it. If you show up, people are going to respect you. Once you give up your best, your colleagues are going to see you, your teachers are going to see you.
Career Success: From Karelia To the World

If you show up, people are going to see it. If you show up, people are going to respect you. Once you give your best, your colleagues are going to see you, your teachers are going to see you. Let it inspire you to look at greater things. Let it inspire you.
Isaac now works as Regional Lead for the Middle East and Africa at Cardio Scan, an Australian company, while also managing business in the Nordics. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: Show up, give your best, and people will recognize your value.
– If you show up, people are going to see it. If you show up, people are going to respect you. Once you give your best, your colleagues are going to see you, your teachers are going to see you. Let it inspire you to look at greater things. Let it inspire you.
Motivation Builds Positive Mindset
Isaac’s thinking is rooted in resilience and growth. His words offer powerful encouragement to future students.
– Life is like a book. Chapter 4 may be boring or tough, but don’t stop reading. Your breakthrough might be in Chapter 12. The opportunity rains, you must find yourself in the right soil, so you grow.
Language Is Also a Way to Belong
Isaac believes learning Finnish is key to connection and integration. He understood early on that making the effort to learn the local language wasn’t just about communication; it was a powerful signal of respect and commitment.
– Learn the language because it opens doors, just trying to speak it shows you’re making an effort, and people see you differently. If you truly want to belong here, learning the language helps you connect, grow, and become part of the community.
Isaac encourages future students to be bold, creative, and proud of their journey. He believes every achievement is a stepping-stone, something to be proud of, and a reason to keep moving forward.
– Don’t be shy to bring your ideas. Don’t be shy to show what you can do. Be confident in your ideas, your voice matters, and your contributions can shape your future. The universe sees everyone. The effort you put in, whether in silence or at night, the universe will reward you.

