For many students, the idea of studying abroad is exciting, but at the same time frightening because they have to temporarily leave their home country, family and friends, but getting to know new cultures and gaining new experiences make up for it all. Join us as we take a journey through Erikas Boltutis Erasmus+ exchange programme experience. As a third-year student in the Automation and Robotics study programme, E. Boltutis had to overcome various challenges, from applying to the programme to adapting to a new environment. Along the way, he made new friends, explored new cities, and had an exceptional academic experience. 

How did you decide to participate in the Erasmus+ exchange programme? Why did you choose Finland?

For a long time, I wanted to try myself in a new, international environment, so when I heard about Erasmus+, I realized that I had to take advantage of this opportunity here and now since I am a third-year student and there might be no more of these opportunities in the future. I decided to spend one semester in the international mobility programme at Finland’s Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK), in the town of Valkeakoski because I wanted to go to a country where lectures would be held in English and it would be different from Lithuania. It was also important to me that I go to Erasmus+ during the autumn semester and that the study programme would be the same.

Did you travel alone?

Yes, I went alone. At first, I thought it might be difficult to find like-minded people, but when I got there, I was pleasantly surprised because both the Finnish students and the student community were very friendly. Also, the university organized various events for students to get to know each other, so making new friends was easy.

How did the studies go?

The studies were very interesting and unique because we did not have lectures, as is usual in Lithuanian higher education institutions, there were only consultations, and we did the assignments in groups with other students in the laboratories. Only when needed, we asked the lecturers for help, who helped us find a solution ourselves by asking questions. In addition, during the preparation of work presentations, we collaborated with students from other courses, who taught us how to create high-quality slides and how to communicate better.

How did you spend your free time?

Since my studies took place on a free schedule, I had a lot of leisure time. I spent it traveling around the country and had the opportunity to visit Rovaniemi, a city in the far north of Finland that is famous for Santa’s workshop. I also attended various events, made new acquaintances, did physical activities, got to try ice hockey, and finally improved my cooking skills.

We encourage you to take advantage of international opportunities, to practically contribute to meaningful activities, as well as to extend your academic and cultural knowledge. You can find more information about the Erasmus+ exchange programme here.