Alyssa originally comes from Bedford County in Pennsylvania. As a young person, she came to the Nordic region as an exchange student, and since then the area has held a natural place in her life. Before moving to Åland, she lived for several years in Stockholm, where the family moved after becoming parents.

Then came the pandemic and the family reassessed their everyday lives. They began searching for more security for the children and a place where the pace was slower so that everyday stress wouldn't risk taking over.

– I wanted to live where life can be held in your hands and people see each other.

The choice landed on Åland, which, in addition to calm and security, allowed Alyssa to continue living in a Swedish-speaking and Nordic context.

First encounter with Åland 

When the family moved to Åland in the summer of 2020, they immediately felt welcomed by people who reached out.

– Before the moving truck had even left our street, the neighbors came over and introduced themselves. There was a curiosity that felt genuine and sincere.

It made an impression.
– Åland has given me an everyday life where people actually meet, who ask questions and dare to be direct. At a time when many have stopped seeing each other, that is a strength.

Alyssa also appreciates how close-knit the community feels.
– As a political scientist, I am fascinated by the fact that decisions, conversations, and changes happen in real time. You can see how ideas become actions, and sometimes lead to reconsideration.

She describes Åland as a place where it is possible to understand how society works, and where everyone can play a part in shaping it.

– There is room to get involved and to contribute, and when something changes here, you can see it. That creates a very special relationship with both responsibility and opportunity.

A shared future

Besides the sea and nature, the children's daily lives are an important part of the whole picture. In 2022, the family's twin sons were born on Åland, further anchoring the family here.

– My children thrive in their small schools and in the sense of community that permeates everyday life. Every day also teaches me a little more about what it means to belong.

Alyssa is still surprised by how deeply she has put down roots on Åland in just a few years. She stays because she wants to see where the community is heading, and because Åland feels like a place where the future can still be shaped.

– I am involved in both civil society and local politics. It feels meaningful to be part of the conversations that shape the future.

Curiosity and patience

One piece of advice for others considering moving to Åland is not to be in too much of a hurry.

– Curiosity and patience are important. A sense of belonging is built together through participation, not by standing on the sidelines. In the beginning, I think the key is to dare to open doors, even when you don't quite know what's waiting behind them.

– I feel at home on Åland because I belong here in my own way, in a story we are shaping together.