Finns are proud of their uniformly high-quality schools. Unlike in the United States, where parents fret about getting their children into "good" and often private schools with restrictive enrollment, virtually all schools are public, and most Finnish parents send their children to the school closest to their home. Teaching is a desirable profession in Finland, albeit not very highly paid, and also largely female. Teaching is seen as comparable to information technology employment; it is considered exciting and contemporary work. The master's-level degree program for teachers is free, as is all education in Finland. The government also provides a monthly allowance, housing, meals, and free health care. Once employed, teachers enjoy a good deal of respect, autonomy, and responsibility, and the benefits of strong union representation. Teachers and professors are part of the same union, and even teacher education students have a union. In this article, the author reflects on her experiences in Finland.