Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Lithuania, including ESN Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI), is part of a larger European volunteer organisation dedicated to enhancing the Erasmus+ experience for international students. Since its establishment in 1989, ESN has grown to operate in over 42 countries, bringing together more than 15,000 volunteers who organise thousands of events each year. At Kauno kolegija (HEI), ESN plays a crucial role in welcoming and supporting international students by fostering cultural exchange, personal growth, and social integration. Through various events and activities, ESN offers a dynamic and supportive community where students can connect, explore, and fully enjoy their time abroad in Lithuania.
Meet the ESN KK Team: Sajad Arshad Jetha and Augustinas Venskūnas
Sajad Arshad Jetha, an International Business student from Tanzania, brings his passion for connection and creativity to his roles as Vice President and Events Manager at ESN KK. Known for his love of football, cooking, and creating social experiences, Sajad infuses every event with warmth and energy, helping international students feel immediately welcomed and engaged.
Augustinas Venskūnas, a Lithuanian International Business student, shares Sajad’s commitment to building an inclusive, vibrant student community. With a love for music and a talent for connecting people, Augustinas has taken on several roles within ESN KK, including as an Event Manager. Now an active member, he is dedicated to guiding Erasmus students as they explore Lithuanian culture and settle into life abroad.
Together, Sajad and Augustinas contribute to creating a friendly, supportive environment where international students feel at home and are encouraged to make the most of their Erasmus journey.
Tell us about your journey to joining ESN. What inspired you to get involved?
Augustinas was eager to meet new people and immerse himself in campus life when he first started studying at Kauno kolegija HEI. ‘A fellow student invited me to an ESN event, and honestly, I hadn’t even heard of ESN before,’ he recalls. ‘But once I attended one of their gatherings, I immediately knew I wanted to be a part of it. Helping international students feel at home and sharing my culture with them was incredibly inspiring. ESN gave me a fresh perspective on my own city and country, and I’m grateful my classmates encouraged me to take that first step.’
What benefits does participating in ESN offer for students?
Participating in ESN offers students numerous opportunities for personal growth and cultural enrichment. As Sajad shares, being part of ESN has been a transformative experience, allowing him to travel, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and gain valuable insights into various cultures. He highlights how engaging with Erasmus+ students has been especially rewarding, giving him a unique perspective on global cultures. ‘This experience has enriched my life and has led to lasting friendships and connections,’ says Sajad.
Through such interactions, students not only broaden their horizons but also develop a deeper appreciation for diversity, making their time abroad far more meaningful and impactful.
How does ESN contribute to international cooperation and cultural integration?
ESN plays a significant role in fostering international cooperation and cultural integration by providing opportunities for students to connect and learn from one another. As Sajad shares, ‘Meeting students and fellow ESN members from around the world is an invaluable opportunity to both learn and share’. Events such as cultural dinners allow participants to experience different traditions, particularly through food. These dinners often feature cultural performances, with students showcasing traditional music and dance from their home countries. Each event becomes a vibrant celebration of global heritage, promoting a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and helping build lasting friendships.
What types of activities does ESN organise throughout the year?
ESN organises a wide range of activities throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and helping students connect in meaningful ways. According to both Sajad and Augustinas, events include cultural nights where students can enjoy Lithuanian dishes alongside foods from other countries, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking and sports days. For those looking for more relaxed experiences, casual meet-ups like board game nights and visits to art galleries offer great opportunities to bond in low-key settings. ‘There’s something for everyone,’ says Sajad.
Can you share success stories of students who achieved personal or professional goals through ESN?
ESN plays a significant role in helping students achieve their personal and professional goals by offering a strong support system and valuable connections. Many students find internships or job opportunities through the ESN network, which opens doors to new career paths. As Augustinas notes, ‘Many find internships or job opportunities through ESN connections. For instance, I found a perfect internship in Greece thanks to the network I built through ESN’. Other members have also used ESN to explore their passions. One student, for example, discovered an interest in event management and now organises events for youth organisations. ‘ESN is a warm and welcoming space that encourages students to discover new paths, build their skills, and make meaningful connections,’ says Augustinas. Through these experiences, ESN helps students expand their networks and gain valuable skills for their futures.
What does a typical day look like for you as an ESN member? How do you balance ESN activities with your studies?
Being an ESN member is both exciting and rewarding. As Sajad explains, the time commitment varies depending on the role. Board members, like himself, spend more time planning and organising events, while regular members focus more on socialising and supporting Erasmus students. ’I’ve learned to balance my studies, part-time work, and my responsibilities as an Events Manager,’ he shares. ’It takes some planning, but seeing the students enjoy the events and benefit from them makes it all worth it.’
This experience not only improves time management skills but also brings a sense of fulfilment, knowing that the events create positive outcomes for fellow students.
What has been your most memorable experience with ESN?
One of the most memorable experiences for Sajad was a trip to Moletai, a Lithuanian town known for its museums. The group visited three fascinating museums focused on horoscopes, timekeeping, and astronomy, and even had the opportunity to explore an astronomical observatory. For Sajad, the experience went beyond just learning—it was about the lasting friendships formed during the trip. “The connections we make in ESN last a lifetime,” he says. This trip, like many others, reinforced for Sajad how ESN creates not only unique cultural experiences but also meaningful, lifelong bonds between students. These connections are what truly make the ESN experience special.
What advice do you have for first-year students who are considering joining ESN?
For first-year students considering joining ESN, Augustinas offers a helpful piece of advice: take your time and explore. He encourages newcomers to attend events, get to know the community, and immerse themselves in the experience before feeling the pressure to fully commit. ‘When I first joined, I was a bit hesitant too,’ he recalls, ‘but stepping out of my comfort zone turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.’
Joining ESN is all about discovering new opportunities at your own pace. Through this process, students can connect with others from around the world, learning from different cultures and making meaningful friendships. For Augustinas, the key is embracing the journey without rushing into anything. He emphasises how much personal growth can come from trying new things, making the most of each opportunity, and, most importantly, enjoying the ride.
What are the first steps for a student interested in joining ESN?
For students interested in joining ESN, Augustinas recommends starting by following ESN Kaunas on Instagram at @esn_kk to stay informed about upcoming events and activities. ‘Our events are open to everyone,’ he says, ‘so even if you’re just curious, feel free to join in. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, try new experiences, or eventually become a full member, ESN welcomes everyone’.
He emphasises that joining ESN is a great way to meet people and find a sense of community, especially for those who are far from home. ‘You never know—you might just find your home away from home,’ Augustinas adds.
Through their dedication and enthusiasm, ESN members at Kaunas create a welcoming space that extends beyond cultural exchange. ESN is not just a network—it’s a vibrant community that connects students from around the world, offering them the chance to make lifelong memories, form lasting friendships, and explore new experiences. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Lithuanian culture or simply meet new people, ESN provides the perfect environment to grow, connect, and thrive. Join us and be part of something special—you never know what incredible journey awaits!
