Yerovenko Polina Serhiivna

Specialty – Computer Science, FIT  

Vytautas Magnus University, 28.08 2023 - 20 12.2023, specialty during mobility - Computer Science 

The direct speech from the participant

– Where did you stay (dormitory, rented room, hostel, other)?

I lived in the VMU dormitory No. 5, Akademija, the rooms are equipped with everything you need, but there were 3 people per room, so it can be a bit cramped. My dormitory was very close to my computer science building, so I didn't spend much time traveling, but for other specialties it can be more problematic.

– Were you provided with a scholarship for the mobility program? If so, to what percentage did the scholarship cover the minimum necessary living expenses?

Yes, a scholarship was provided. It covered 100% of the expenses, since at that time, accommodation in a dormitory was free for Ukrainians, but even with the payment for the dormitory, the accommodation would have been fully covered, because the scholarship was quite high, enough for travel. Yes, I received a scholarship, and it fully covered the necessary expenses for accommodation and travel.

– Based on your experience, what should future mobility program participants pay attention to during preparation?

I advise you to prepare all documents in advance and carefully check the curriculum to avoid misunderstandings with the recognition of subjects at your home university. It is also worth taking care of health insurance.

– What unexpected issues arose during your mobility?

The household nuances came as a surprise—for example, how the city’s public transportation operates and what life is like in foreign dormitories.

– Briefly describe your expectations for the mobility program and whether they were fulfilled.

I expected to gain a new learning experience and get to know the international student community. My expectations came true – I gained valuable knowledge, improved my English, and made friends from different countries with whom I still communicate to this day.

– What educational and cultural activities did you participate in during your mobility?

I participated in various student events at the university, attended lectures and workshops, as well as cultural events in Kaunas - exhibitions, festivals, city tours and trips to other cities in Lithuania. The international department of the university works very well, almost every week there were different events for exchange students, we shared the traditions and food of our countries, and immersed ourselves in Lithuanian culture. There were a lot of opportunities even for further employment and continued life in Lithuania.

– Share your most vivid impressions from the mobility program.

What impressed me the most was the friendly atmosphere among the students, the opportunity to study in a truly international environment and discover a new country with its culture and traditions. This was important to me, because Lithuania is a country that embodies true European values, but at the same time, you can feel the spirit of your native country, so you don't feel homesick.

– Would you like to participate in the mobility program again, and where would you go?

Yes, I would really like to take part in the program again. This time I am interested in universities in Western Europe, for example in Italy or Spain.

– Would you recommend participating in the mobility program?

Yes, 100%. It is a unique experience that broadens your horizons, helps you develop professionally and opens up new opportunities. It was quite scary at first, but it changed my life and I am very grateful for this experience.