Exploring professional and intercultural capabilities of Finnish Fulbright returnees in the development of their fields of specialization in Finland

The constructive utilization of skills and competences acquired abroad, by academic and research returnees can be a significant determinant of the impact of internationalization. Nonetheless, it seems this aspect has not been quite considered in past research. This study focuses on exploring the different mechanisms by which Finnish Fulbright returnees utilize and channel professional skills and intercultural competences gained from their studies in the United States, in promoting growth in their respective fields of specialization in Finland. Building on a qualitative research approach, primary data for this study was generated from semi-structured interviews with some eight Finnish Fulbright returnees. The study applied the Capability Approach in analyzing the functionality of returnees‘ professional and intercultural capabilities in their fields of specialization. The findings of the study illustrate that the Fulbright returnees had utilized their resources (commodities) and exerted the professional skills and intercultural competences (capabilities) which they gained in the U.S. at the time of their studies, in promoting growth in Finland through their work (functionings). Utilization and transfer of skills were mainly carried out in the academic and industrial domains, involving activities in teaching and research, and field related works respectively. Moreover, it was discovered that skills were transferred to colleagues, trainees, and to other companies. In the industry domain new skills and ideologies were said to be a greater factor contributing to sustainable development in fields of engineering and power system in Finland. The study suggests the idea that adequate room be offered to returnees in their home country, to apply internationally acquired skills and knowledge through their works. And for the returnees, there is need to create collaborative linkages with employers and industries as a measure to promote development in relative fields in Finland