Finding My Way Back to Estonia through Estonian Studies
For Hannah Karin Kastein, Estonia has always been part of her family story. Two of her grandparents emigrated from Estonia to the United States, and Hannah grew up learning about her Estonian heritage. However, she did not grow up in a diaspora community and did not learn the Estonian language as a child. Today, Hannah is studying Estonian Studies at Tallinn University, where she is learning the language and exploring Estonia’s history, culture, literature and politics.
From quantum computing to Estonia
Before coming to Tallinn University, Hannah worked as an engineer in the field of quantum computing. Although she had visited Estonia several times while growing up, she had always wanted to spend more time here.
Her decision to move to Estonia was connected to the Estonian Song and Dance Celebration. While training to take part in the celebration with a group from Toronto, Hannah decided that it was time to learn Estonian and develop a deeper connection with the country.
Choosing Estonian Studies
Hannah first heard about the Estonian Studies programme from her sister. She had considered other programmes in Estonia, but many of them were more narrowly focused. She did not necessarily want to study only one subject, such as linguistics. Instead, she wanted to gain a broad understanding of Estonia while learning the language.
“I wanted to get a deep introduction into the history, culture, literature and politics of Estonia, while being in an environment to learn Estonian quickly,” she says.
The flexibility of the programme was also important to Hannah. She chose Tallinn University specifically because Estonian Studies would allow her to explore a wide range of topics while still giving her the freedom to choose a focus for her thesis.
Seeing the connections between different subjects
One of the things Hannah has enjoyed most about the programme is the way the courses complement one another. What she has learned about Estonian history has helped her better understand both Estonian culture and politics.
“The best part has been all of the interconnections between the courses,” she explains.
An ELU course on start-up pre-incubation also brought an unexpected opportunity. Through the course, Hannah made connections within Estonia’s start-up ecosystem – a particularly interesting experience given her previous background in technology.
Discovering Tallinn in every season
Hannah’s first impressions of Tallinn were shaped by the city’s beauty, parks and seaside location. She has also enjoyed meeting Estonians as well as people from all over the world, both at the university and around the city.
There is something different to enjoy in every season. In winter, Hannah likes going to the sauna and ice swimming. During the summer, she makes the most of the long, sunny days by running and cycling around Tallinn.
The darkness and cold of the Estonian winter were surprising at first. Over time, however, Hannah began to appreciate the slower pace of life and the unique activities that winter makes possible.
Looking ahead
Hannah currently plans to stay in Estonia and work in the start-up or technology sector. Her studies have given her not only a deeper understanding of Estonia, but also language skills, new connections and a stronger sense of her relationship with the country.
For anyone considering Estonian Studies, Hannah’s advice is simple:
“I think you should apply! It’s a great programme and Estonia has a lot waiting for you. And if you are part of the diaspora looking to come back or explore this part of your identity, I definitely think you should check it out!”
Learn more about the programme HERE
Admission is open from 1 Nov 2026. Start your application in DreamApply.