Urtė Mikučiūnaitė, a student of the Faculty of Business at Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI), dedicated her summer to exploring research work. On 28^th August, she presented the results of her summer internship at the Summer of Science 2024 conference, held at Vilnius University and organised by the Research Council of Lithuania.

‘In this study, the interaction between digitisation and economic indicators across European countries is examined. The research aims to understand how digital processes, technologies, and innovations contribute to the economic growth and development of countries. The main objective is to determine the impact of digitalization on various economic indicators. The study also analyses the differences in the level of digitalisation and its economic impact between European countries. The importance of digitalisation is increasing as technology becomes a driving force for competitiveness, productivity, and innovation. I became interested in this topic because digital solutions are essential for the efficiency of business and public sector operations. Importantly, digitalisation can be both a catalyst for growth and a challenge for less developed countries. The results of this study can be useful in promoting digital innovations and ensuring sustainable economic growth throughout Europe,’ says the student. Her research was conducted in collaboration with lecturer Aistė Lastauskaitė.

This year, a record number of students participated in the conference – as many as 265 students from 18 research and study institutions. The conference provided an opportunity to hear about the work and results achieved by emerging researchers during their internships. The event also featured colleagues from the Research Council of Lithuania Science-Business Collaboration Division, who invited young talents to explore how their research could become a success story in the business world and learn about funding opportunities for their innovative projects.

‘The preparation for the Summer of Science 2024 conference was thorough. First, with the assistance of my supervisor A. Lastauskaitė, I conducted a literature review on the interaction between digitalisation and economic indicators. Then, using data from Eurostat and other sources, I analysed economic indicators of countries, comparing advanced and lagging countries in terms of digitalisation. I also prepared visual materials – charts, tables, and graphs – to present the research findings clearly and comprehensively. A crucial part of the preparation was also improving my public speaking skills. Additionally, both the research and its presentation were conducted in English. I rehearsed my presentation to ensure smooth delivery and prepared for potential questions and discussions to provide a broader context if needed,’ shares U. Mikučiūnaitė.

However, her academic challenges did not end in Lithuania. She is currently continuing her studies at the University of Almería in Spain under the Erasmus+ programme. ‘I decided to participate in the Erasmus+ programme due to my strong desire to visit other countries and test myself in an international environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience a different culture, broaden my horizons, and make new connections. I find the international collaboration experience extremely valuable as it allows me to develop both academically and personally,’ says U. Mikučiūnaitė. In Almería, located on the Mediterranean coast, she is deepening her knowledge in marketing and sales.

She plans to continue her research activities with the support of a grant from the Research Council of Lithuania. She will be working with researcher Rasa Bartkutė on a project Green Voices: The Impact of Green Opinion Leaders on Promoting Sustainable Consumption. 

‘With the Research Council of Lithuania grant, I plan to further develop research on this project. Today, sustainability and an eco-friendly environment are just as relevant as the previously mentioned digitisation. Additionally, businesses in the current market are increasingly focused on creating eco-friendly products and digital solutions for greater consumer convenience. The knowledge gained from this upcoming research will be highly beneficial for my future career in this field. For the coming year, my main goals are to continue academic development, integrate into the professional market, and, as always, seize every opportunity to participate in various projects and further build my knowledge capital,’ U. Mikučiūnaitė shares about her plans.

She draws inspiration and motivation to pursue ambitious goals from her desire to build a stable and meaningful future by doing what she loves. She emphasises that Kauno kolegija HEI is an ideal place to achieve this goal. ‘Studying Sales and Marketing allows me to showcase my creativity and implement original ideas. The real projects that emerge from theoretical lectures and practical sessions help me deepen my knowledge and enhance my skills, which is crucial for understanding the business world better. This will be especially valuable for my professional career,’ U. Mikučiūnaitė notes.

She also highlights the significant role her lecturer A. Lastauskaitė has played in her academic journey. ‘I want to express my special gratitude to lecturer A. Lastauskaitė, who recognised my potential in the first year and involved me in various projects. Her support and guidance have been a cornerstone from which I began to pursue my goals more purposefully,” U. Mikučiūnaitė adds.