Vilnius University: Growth and connection beyond the classroom

With over four centuries of academic heritage, it’s no surprise Vilnius University (VU) reigns as Lithuania’s top-ranked institution. However, studying here isn’t just about hitting the books — it’s about discovery, friendship and personal evolution. Whether it’s taking part in one of 15 art groups, competing in sports like rowing or judo, or engaging in leadership by joining organisations like Student Representation or the Student Investment Fund, a VU studnet is never short of opportunities for personal growth and connection.

Theresa Thies’s research from IHF München sheds light on the pivotal role such extracurricular involvement plays in shaping a sense of belonging and cultural integration. Blake Hendrickson from the University of Buffalo surveyed 105 students from 20 countries and found that while students initially bond with those from similar backgrounds, extracurricular activities foster friendships with locals as the semester unfolds, enhancing their time at university.

VU has plenty of activities and experiences and something for everyone — a fact proven by the stories of five international students who love seizing every chance they get to learn, grow and thrive beyond the classroom.

Stanislav Lohvynenko

VU’s International Business programme was a natural fit for Lohvynenko, who found refuge in Lithuania amidst the chaos of war in Ukraine. The university was also the ideal place for him to continue nurturing his passion for swimming. “Currently, I hold the title of Master of Sport in both Lithuania and Ukraine,” he shares.

Balancing academics and athletics was tough at first, but Lohvynenko’s resilience shone through. Negotiating with professors for flexible schedules and prioritising training sessions, he found his stride. While training to represent VU in the SELL Student Games 2024, the student is also working toward his aspirations of establishing a tech-based company akin to Newegg. He sees his education as a crucial stepping stone, stating, “I now know what needs to be done, what not to do, and how to break down this big goal into small tasks and make it a reality.”

Ewa Helene Gotzes

With a childhood fascination for medicine and a penchant for artistic expression, this student’s VU journey has been one of self-discovery and growth. For five years, she’s been an integral part of the VU Dainų ir šokių ansamblis choir, finding solace, cultural immersion, and friendships through music. Choir rehearsals have always offered Gotzes vital “me time” amidst the rigours of being a medical student.

In 2022, Gotzes took part in the Gaudeamus concert. During the ensemble’s trip to Punsk, Poland, she experienced the rich coexistence of Polish and Lithuanian cultures. Then, she performed Mozart’s Requiem at “Klasika Visiems,” a university-wide event fostering cultural exchange. “Soon, I will return to Germany to start the practical part of my studies,” she shares. “I want to continue to sing while learning about my own cultural heritage. I also hope I will be able to include everything I learned about inclusion here in Vilnius.”

Olena Pankevych

This Politics of Global Challenges student from Ukraine chose VU for its supportive environment and diverse curriculum spanning topics like climate change politics and practical philosophy. In no time, she uncovered many other perks. Today, she is chairwoman of the Debate Society, orchestrating workshops and international competitions while amplifying student voices as a VU Ambassador and Editor of English articles in the Vilnius University Young Journalists’ Society.

“Participation grants me a chance to learn about how institutions really operate, what managing a team looks like, and what sort of administrative issues activity brings about,” shares Pankevych, who aims to contribute to Ukraine’s defence or energy sectors post-graduation. “These skills cannot necessarily be theoretically taught, so it is extremely valuable to practice them in places where it is still okay to try different options more flexibly.”

Daniyal Heidari

Daniyal Heidari, a medicine student from Cyprus, chose Vilnius University for its green landscapes and affordable tuition. Today VU is home for him. Passionate about science, he was drawn to medicine as a convergence of various disciplines. However, he’s also made time to actively participate in powerlifting and serve in student organisations, including the VU Students Representation and Learning in Science and Mathematics.

“I am currently an intermediate-level powerlifter and I will soon represent our university in the SELL games 2024 in Kaunas,” he shares. “Meanwhile, participating in organisations have definitely helped me cultivate leadership and collaboration skills. The values of dedication, balance, and perseverance I learned from sports and dance — the benefits always outweigh the costs.”

Valeriia Kyslenko

Drawn to VU for its reputation, Kyslenko’s passion for language led her to pursue English Philology. The student from Ukraine is active in the university’s chamber orchestra, finding calm in music amidst her academic commitments. “It even gives me a chance to know more about the university’s culture and to participate in different events,” she shares.

Indeed, engaging in artistic activities not only facilitates social interaction across different fields of study but also provides a platform for personal growth, enhancing her violin skills and social competencies. “I have already participated in a few concerts with the orchestra, and it gives unforgettable emotions,” says the student. “I like to be a part of something as beautiful and share music with others.”

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