How did you end up studying abroad?
I’d been wanting to experience living in a different country for quite a while, so when I applied to study at the Technical University of Applied Sciences of Central Hesse (THM), I made sure I would have the chance to spend a semester studying abroad. And when the opportunity arose, I immediately took it.
And why Lithuania in particular?
I liked the fact that I hardly knew anything about the country. That meant that I was able to discover something totally new, without any preconceptions. And it was the best way to step out of my comfort zone and work on my personal growth. I also liked what the university, Vilnius Tech, had to offer. I’m learning a lot of interesting things on my course but also have the opportunity to try out new skills. For example, I opted for Public Communication, where I’m learning to speak without notes and to give presentations.
Can you name three things you like better in Lithuania than at home in Germany?
Public transport here is incredibly cheap, on time and clean. You can pay by card everywhere and there are self-service checkouts in all supermarkets and many other stores. I also really like the fact that the main street in the city centre is off limits to cars at night and on weekends. That makes going out enjoyable and safe and it gives the city a cosy feel.
Is there anything you definitely won’t miss after you return?
I won’t miss being so close to the Russian border. You don’t really notice anything during everyday life, although NATO has a huge presence here and there are many Ukrainian flags on display to show solidarity. Despite that, there have been a few moments when I’ve felt a little anxious – like when the airport was closed due to Belarusian smuggler balloons. Of course Lithuania, like Germany, is initially protected by NATO, but being so close sometimes makes you feel uneasy.
What have been your culinary highlights so far?
Definitely fried bread, a kind of dark garlic bread that is really tasty as a snack or starter. And cepelinai – potato dumplings filled with minced meat and served with sour cream and bacon. Vilnius has an amazing amount of different restaurants and culinary options.
And your personal highlight?
I would say that the trip to Trakai with my friends was my personal highlight. We went there in late summer when it was still really warm, which meant that we were able to rent a pedalo on the picturesque lake and even go swimming. I also had a particularly memorable moment at the beginning of my semester abroad, when I walked up to the viewing platform on The Hill of Three Crosses to watch the sun rise. From up there, you have amazing views over the entire city, and it was then that I realised that I was actually here and living my dream.
What has surprised you the most?
The city and the people have really surprised me. Although it’s a small country with only three million inhabitants and it can get pretty cold, there are always so many people out and about on the streets – lots of young people too. The city isn’t just lively at weekends, but also during the week and there are lots of different events on offer every day – including in English, as the locals take great pleasure in presenting their own culture to foreign visitors. And the city’s architecture with its many churches is also incredibly beautiful. Vilnius’s slogan is ‘Unexpectedly Amazing’, which it certainly lives up to – precisely because it’s not very well known, yet still well worth a visit.
Different countries, different customs: what are some of the differences you have experienced in your new learning environment?
The student-lecturer relationship here is very informal and lecturers are very helpful and supportive with homework or if we ever have any problems. And we get regular feedback at the university because we also have homework and assignments that are included in our final grade. In Germany, there was only one examination at the end of the semester, but here we regularly get assigned projects and group work throughout it.
Do you have any tips for our colleagues in Frankfurt who might be thinking of visiting Vilnius?
If you want to try Lithuanian food, I can recommend the Etno Dvaras restaurant in Pilies. Although it’s a chain and quite touristy, the food I had there was great and there’s a lovely atmosphere in the cosy cellar room. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more authentic, head to the Šnekutis restaurant. And especially if you’re there in the summer, you should definitely check out the nearby Trakai Island Castle.
Is there anything you’ve learnt in Vilnius that will stand you in good stead for your future career?
I have learnt to interact and work together with people of different nationalities – and in a foreign language too. I’m living and studying with people from all over the world here – from France, Spain, Hungary and even South Korea and India. This has allowed me to learn a lot about their different cultures, which is very rewarding.