From Muurame to the world – and back to Jyväskylä
Ilona Mutanen is originally from Muurame, where she still lives. After high school, she took a gap year, which she called an “undefined interim period,” as further studies were not part of her plans. During this time, Ilona worked in Greece and Spain as part of hotel entertainment teams. The experience sparked her interest in tourism and made her seriously consider a career in the field.
Ilona had never heard of the Tourism Management degree programme until she saw an ad from Jamk on social media. She applied through the joint application process and was accepted to both Jyväskylä and Helsinki. Helsinki was tempting, but for practical reasons, Ilona chose Jamk. Soon, she realized it was the perfect choice. “Already during orientation week, I noticed that Jyväskylä and Jamk offer so much more than I expected – a sense of community, opportunities, and an inspiring student life,” Ilona summarises.
Internationalization in Practice
The Tourism Management programme brings together people from different countries and cultures. In addition to theory, students learn how to work in a multicultural environment – a skill that is essential in the tourism industry.
For Ilona, the best part of her studies has been the networks and friendships. Right from the start, a close-knit group formed, which has since expanded from Jyväskylä to the world, opening doors both during and outside of studies. Ilona was surprised by how much Jamk encourages internationalization. In her first year, she participated in a BIP exchange in Germany, and in summer 2025, she completed an internship as a wedding planner in Spain.
Ilona wanted to challenge herself and applied for a wedding planning position in Mallorca. During three months, she learned to use digital planning tools, worked at weddings and with various service providers, and explored stunning venues and industry professionals. Outside of work, Ilona also enjoyed the local culture.
Who Would Ilona Recommend This Degree To?
Tourism Management is suitable for anyone interested in tourism and an international career. The studies offer plenty of opportunities if you dare to seize them. “Although the programme focuses on tourism economics and developing more sustainable tourism, you can get so much more out of it if you are curious and willing to embrace new opportunities. During your studies, you can easily try and explore different things and create your own path. So, I would recommend this degree to anyone interested in tourism and possibly an international career. I encourage applicants to stay focused and trust in what excites them,” Ilona shares.
Future Plans
Next, Ilona aims for a double degree programme in Barcelona. The event industry is currently her top choice, but she keeps an open mind about opportunities after graduation.
