Becoming an Entrepreneur in Estonia

More generally, living in Tartu has allowed Vignesh to establish contacts with lots of IT professionals, establishing a strong professional network – as well as making new friends from around the world.

“It was very easy to settle in. Almost everyone knows English, and they’re very friendly and helpful. It’s very easy to make new friends and it’s quite a small town – everywhere is within walking distance – so it’s very easy to catch up with people. I’ve never had even a single thing to worry about since coming here.”

In fact, Vignesh says he believes he’s benefitted from opportunities for international exposure and developing IT leadership even more here than during the time he spent studying in Sweden or Dubai. This is perhaps in part due to Tartu’s relatively small size, and the strong ties that result from this. He says he’s learned as much from his professors outside the classroom as he has during formal tuition, emphasizing how approachable they are, and how ready to share their insights.

Vignesh has also enjoyed being involved in the Erasmus Student Network, which organizes events and social activities, having spent time as a local coordinator for the scheme. And he adds that the cost of living is relatively affordable when compared to many European study destinations, further contributing to the overall comfort of his experience.

In summary, Vignesh says coming to study in Estonia has been “a wonderful experience” – and he’s keen to encourage more international students to consider Estonia as a destination. “I think somehow people missed Estonia – they just looked past it and they went to other countries. But it’s such a beautiful place to be in, very eco-friendly, the lifestyle is amazing. I don’t think there would be a reason for anyone to be disappointed if they chose to study in Estonia.”

As for himself, though he’s about to graduate, he’s in no hurry to leave Tartu. And, thanks to recently introduced regulations that allow international students in Estonia to extend their residence permits for at least six months while seeking work, he doesn’t need to. He plans to stay and continue to develop his business, establishing more contracts across Europe, and ultimately finding ways to contribute to charity- and community-based projects.

In short, Vignesh may not have known several years ago that Estonia was where he would “land up”, but he’s very happy that he did! “After coming to Estonia I realized that there was much more for me to learn. It’s kept me grounded and thirsty for knowledge. This is only going to help me make rational decisions, to be a good human being, to contribute to the welfare of people by making their lives easier through IT – this is my personal goal.”

Are you dreaming of becoming an entrepreneur? Would you like to study in Estonia?

Find out about opportunities across Europe (and the world) at a QS World Grad School Tour event.