STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Meet the students who turned their dreams into reality in Kaunas. From medicine and engineering to arts and business, each story shows how studying here opens doors to global opportunities and lifelong friendships. These international students share their experiences, challenges, and achievements – proving that Kaunas isn’t just a place to study, but a place to grow, belong, and succeed.
After completing her Bachelor’s in Malaysia, Amina Dautova chose to pursue a Master’s in Architecture at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), drawn by the opportunity to study in English and experience Europe’s approach to architecture. She graduated in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Amina works in Lithuania as a BIM/Revit modeller, creating 3D and VR models for engineering projects. She says the software skills gained at KTU proved essential in her career.
Amina values Lithuania’s welcoming community and green summers, though she still misses her family, Kazakh food, and the mountains of her hometown, Almaty. Her advice to students: don’t be afraid of moving abroad – the new experiences are worth it.
After completing her Bachelor’s in Malaysia, Amina Dautova chose to pursue a Master’s in Architecture at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), drawn by the opportunity to study in English and experience Europe’s approach to architecture. She graduated in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Amina works in Lithuania as a BIM/Revit modeller, creating 3D and VR models for engineering projects. She says the software skills gained at KTU proved essential in her career.
Amina values Lithuania’s welcoming community and green summers, though she still misses her family, Kazakh food, and the mountains of her hometown, Almaty. Her advice to students: don’t be afraid of moving abroad – the new experiences are worth it.
After completing her Bachelor’s in Malaysia, Amina Dautova chose to pursue a Master’s in Architecture at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), drawn by the opportunity to study in English and experience Europe’s approach to architecture. She graduated in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Amina works in Lithuania as a BIM/Revit modeller, creating 3D and VR models for engineering projects. She says the software skills gained at KTU proved essential in her career.
Amina values Lithuania’s welcoming community and green summers, though she still misses her family, Kazakh food, and the mountains of her hometown, Almaty. Her advice to students: don’t be afraid of moving abroad – the new experiences are worth it.
LUISA MARIA SANTOFIMIO (Colombia)
LUISA MARIA SANTOFIMIO (Colombia)
LUISA MARIA SANTOFIMIO (Colombia)
Originally from Bogotá, Luisa came to KTU to study Sustainable Management and Production, after completing a degree in Environmental Engineering in Colombia. She was attracted by scholarships, housing opportunities, and the expertise of KTU professors.
Her studies deepened her knowledge of global sustainability and inspired her goal to work in environmental management, helping organisations reduce their environmental footprint.
Adjusting to Lithuania was a challenge at first, but Luisa has embraced life in Kaunas, enjoying its safety, cleanliness, and community spirit. She even discovered a new favourite dessert – tinginys. Her message: small actions can spark big change.
Originally from Bogotá, Luisa came to KTU to study Sustainable Management and Production, after completing a degree in Environmental Engineering in Colombia. She was attracted by scholarships, housing opportunities, and the expertise of KTU professors.
Her studies deepened her knowledge of global sustainability and inspired her goal to work in environmental management, helping organisations reduce their environmental footprint.
Adjusting to Lithuania was a challenge at first, but Luisa has embraced life in Kaunas, enjoying its safety, cleanliness, and community spirit. She even discovered a new favourite dessert – tinginys. Her message: small actions can spark big change.
Originally from Bogotá, Luisa came to KTU to study Sustainable Management and Production, after completing a degree in Environmental Engineering in Colombia. She was attracted by scholarships, housing opportunities, and the expertise of KTU professors.
Her studies deepened her knowledge of global sustainability and inspired her goal to work in environmental management, helping organisations reduce their environmental footprint.
Adjusting to Lithuania was a challenge at first, but Luisa has embraced life in Kaunas, enjoying its safety, cleanliness, and community spirit. She even discovered a new favourite dessert – tinginys. Her message: small actions can spark big change.
SANTIAGO COTOBAL RODELES (Spain)
SANTIAGO COTOBAL RODELES (Spain)
SANTIAGO COTOBAL RODELES (Spain)
Santiago graduated from LSMU in 2018 with a degree in Medicine. He was drawn to LSMU for its problem-based learning system, monthly subject structure, and the opportunity to meet students from around the world.
Today, he works as a geriatrician (M.D). at Hospital Severo Ochoa in Madrid, Spain, and serves as a tutor and coach for medical students at Curso Intensivo MIR Asturias.
Santiago credits LSMU not only for its academic preparation but also for its multicultural environment, personal growth, and understanding of Lithuanian culture. His advice to prospective students: embrace the international experience—make friends worldwide and immerse yourself in the culture while building a strong medical foundation.
Santiago graduated from LSMU in 2018 with a degree in Medicine. He was drawn to LSMU for its problem-based learning system, monthly subject structure, and the opportunity to meet students from around the world.
Today, he works as a geriatrician (M.D). at Hospital Severo Ochoa in Madrid, Spain, and serves as a tutor and coach for medical students at Curso Intensivo MIR Asturias.
Santiago credits LSMU not only for its academic preparation but also for its multicultural environment, personal growth, and understanding of Lithuanian culture. His advice to prospective students: embrace the international experience—make friends worldwide and immerse yourself in the culture while building a strong medical foundation.
Santiago graduated from LSMU in 2018 with a degree in Medicine. He was drawn to LSMU for its problem-based learning system, monthly subject structure, and the opportunity to meet students from around the world.
Today, he works as a geriatrician (M.D). at Hospital Severo Ochoa in Madrid, Spain, and serves as a tutor and coach for medical students at Curso Intensivo MIR Asturias.
Santiago credits LSMU not only for its academic preparation but also for its multicultural environment, personal growth, and understanding of Lithuanian culture. His advice to prospective students: embrace the international experience—make friends worldwide and immerse yourself in the culture while building a strong medical foundation.
SAJAD ARSHAD JETHA (Tanzania)
SAJAD ARSHAD JETHA (Tanzania)
SAJAD ARSHAD JETHA (Tanzania)
Sajad Arshad Jetha, an International Business student from Tanzania, has made a significant impact as Vice President and Events Manager of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Kauno Kolegija. Through his roles, he helps international students integrate into Lithuanian life, fostering cultural exchange, personal growth, and lasting friendships.
Passionate about creating social experiences, Sajad organises a variety of events, from cultural dinners and music performances to sports days and museum trips. These activities help students build networks, experience diverse cultures, and develop valuable interpersonal skills. One of his most memorable experiences was a cultural trip to Molėtai, where students explored museums and an astronomical observatory, strengthening bonds that last a lifetime.
Sajad emphasises that participating in ESN has been transformative, offering opportunities to travel, meet people from around the world, and gain insights into global cultures. Balancing his responsibilities with his studies, he encourages first-year students to step out of their comfort zones, attend events, and gradually immerse themselves in the ESN community.
“The connections we make in ESN last a lifetime. It’s not just a network – it’s a vibrant community that turns your time abroad into a meaningful, unforgettable experience.”
Sajad Arshad Jetha, an International Business student from Tanzania, has made a significant impact as Vice President and Events Manager of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Kauno Kolegija. Through his roles, he helps international students integrate into Lithuanian life, fostering cultural exchange, personal growth, and lasting friendships.
Passionate about creating social experiences, Sajad organises a variety of events, from cultural dinners and music performances to sports days and museum trips. These activities help students build networks, experience diverse cultures, and develop valuable interpersonal skills. One of his most memorable experiences was a cultural trip to Molėtai, where students explored museums and an astronomical observatory, strengthening bonds that last a lifetime.
Sajad emphasises that participating in ESN has been transformative, offering opportunities to travel, meet people from around the world, and gain insights into global cultures. Balancing his responsibilities with his studies, he encourages first-year students to step out of their comfort zones, attend events, and gradually immerse themselves in the ESN community.
“The connections we make in ESN last a lifetime. It’s not just a network – it’s a vibrant community that turns your time abroad into a meaningful, unforgettable experience.”
Sajad Arshad Jetha, an International Business student from Tanzania, has made a significant impact as Vice President and Events Manager of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Kauno Kolegija. Through his roles, he helps international students integrate into Lithuanian life, fostering cultural exchange, personal growth, and lasting friendships.
Passionate about creating social experiences, Sajad organises a variety of events, from cultural dinners and music performances to sports days and museum trips. These activities help students build networks, experience diverse cultures, and develop valuable interpersonal skills. One of his most memorable experiences was a cultural trip to Molėtai, where students explored museums and an astronomical observatory, strengthening bonds that last a lifetime.
Sajad emphasises that participating in ESN has been transformative, offering opportunities to travel, meet people from around the world, and gain insights into global cultures. Balancing his responsibilities with his studies, he encourages first-year students to step out of their comfort zones, attend events, and gradually immerse themselves in the ESN community.
“The connections we make in ESN last a lifetime. It’s not just a network – it’s a vibrant community that turns your time abroad into a meaningful, unforgettable experience.”
HAMISU ALIYU MOHAMMED (Nigeria)
HAMISU ALIYU MOHAMMED (Nigeria)
HAMISU ALIYU MOHAMMED (Nigeria)
Swapping busy Nigeria for Lithuania's calm rhythm": KTU student Hamisu’s journey
Growing up in a lively home with 26 siblings, Hamisu Aliyu Mohammed quickly learned that patience and education can take you far. After studying in Africa, Asia and Europe, he is now a KTU PhD student researching organic semiconductors and believes that "education is the strongest tool to connect cultures.”
Arriving in Kaunas in 2023, he immediately felt the difference: "I was surprised how calm and orderly life is in Lithuania," he says. Coming from Nigeria’s energetic and spontaneous environment, adapting to a quieter rhythm was new but meaningful: "It helped me appreciate both the peace here and the social energy I miss from home.
"His childhood home was never quiet: shared meals, shared activities and a strong family bond. "Sometimes we even ate from the same plate," he laughs. His father, despite not having Western education, encouraged all 27 children to pursue learning.
Hamisu’s academic path spans three continents. After studying Applied Chemistry in Nigeria and Analytic Chemistry in Malaysia, his journey led him to Lithuania and to professor Juozas Vidas Gražulevičius’ laboratory at KTU. Today he researches materials that could shape future lighting, display and sensor technologies.
Having studied in different parts of the world, Hamisu believes learning has the same purpose everywhere: "Wherever you study, the goal is the same." He notes that Nigeria’s education system faces challenges - funding, inequality, frequent university strikes - yet still produces many talented graduates.
Now in Lithuania, he is focused on research, collaboration and building meaningful partnerships: "Lithuania is a great place for my work. My priority is to create research that leaves long–term impact, no matter where I am.
Swapping busy Nigeria for Lithuania's calm rhythm": KTU student Hamisu’s journey
Growing up in a lively home with 26 siblings, Hamisu Aliyu Mohammed quickly learned that patience and education can take you far. After studying in Africa, Asia and Europe, he is now a KTU PhD student researching organic semiconductors and believes that "education is the strongest tool to connect cultures.”
Arriving in Kaunas in 2023, he immediately felt the difference: "I was surprised how calm and orderly life is in Lithuania," he says. Coming from Nigeria’s energetic and spontaneous environment, adapting to a quieter rhythm was new but meaningful: "It helped me appreciate both the peace here and the social energy I miss from home.
"His childhood home was never quiet: shared meals, shared activities and a strong family bond. "Sometimes we even ate from the same plate," he laughs. His father, despite not having Western education, encouraged all 27 children to pursue learning.
Hamisu’s academic path spans three continents. After studying Applied Chemistry in Nigeria and Analytic Chemistry in Malaysia, his journey led him to Lithuania and to professor Juozas Vidas Gražulevičius’ laboratory at KTU. Today he researches materials that could shape future lighting, display and sensor technologies.
Having studied in different parts of the world, Hamisu believes learning has the same purpose everywhere: "Wherever you study, the goal is the same." He notes that Nigeria’s education system faces challenges - funding, inequality, frequent university strikes - yet still produces many talented graduates.
Now in Lithuania, he is focused on research, collaboration and building meaningful partnerships: "Lithuania is a great place for my work. My priority is to create research that leaves long–term impact, no matter where I am.
Swapping busy Nigeria for Lithuania's calm rhythm": KTU student Hamisu’s journey
Growing up in a lively home with 26 siblings, Hamisu Aliyu Mohammed quickly learned that patience and education can take you far. After studying in Africa, Asia and Europe, he is now a KTU PhD student researching organic semiconductors and believes that "education is the strongest tool to connect cultures.”
Arriving in Kaunas in 2023, he immediately felt the difference: "I was surprised how calm and orderly life is in Lithuania," he says. Coming from Nigeria’s energetic and spontaneous environment, adapting to a quieter rhythm was new but meaningful: "It helped me appreciate both the peace here and the social energy I miss from home.
"His childhood home was never quiet: shared meals, shared activities and a strong family bond. "Sometimes we even ate from the same plate," he laughs. His father, despite not having Western education, encouraged all 27 children to pursue learning.
Hamisu’s academic path spans three continents. After studying Applied Chemistry in Nigeria and Analytic Chemistry in Malaysia, his journey led him to Lithuania and to professor Juozas Vidas Gražulevičius’ laboratory at KTU. Today he researches materials that could shape future lighting, display and sensor technologies.
Having studied in different parts of the world, Hamisu believes learning has the same purpose everywhere: "Wherever you study, the goal is the same." He notes that Nigeria’s education system faces challenges - funding, inequality, frequent university strikes - yet still produces many talented graduates.
Now in Lithuania, he is focused on research, collaboration and building meaningful partnerships: "Lithuania is a great place for my work. My priority is to create research that leaves long–term impact, no matter where I am.
Asaf graduated from LSMU in 2017 with a degree in odontology. He chose LSMU for its high-quality education and supportive environment for international students.
Today, Asaf owns two dental clinics in Israel (Modi’in and Ramla) and teaches implantology, maxillofacial surgery, and prosthodontics worldwide, training over 200 doctors so far.
He praises LSMU for its excellent academic programmes, skilled teachers, and vibrant student life, emphasising that studying there was the best choice for his professional growth and international career.
Asaf graduated from LSMU in 2017 with a degree in odontology. He chose LSMU for its high-quality education and supportive environment for international students.
Today, Asaf owns two dental clinics in Israel (Modi’in and Ramla) and teaches implantology, maxillofacial surgery, and prosthodontics worldwide, training over 200 doctors so far.
He praises LSMU for its excellent academic programmes, skilled teachers, and vibrant student life, emphasising that studying there was the best choice for his professional growth and international career.
Asaf graduated from LSMU in 2017 with a degree in odontology. He chose LSMU for its high-quality education and supportive environment for international students.
Today, Asaf owns two dental clinics in Israel (Modi’in and Ramla) and teaches implantology, maxillofacial surgery, and prosthodontics worldwide, training over 200 doctors so far.
He praises LSMU for its excellent academic programmes, skilled teachers, and vibrant student life, emphasising that studying there was the best choice for his professional growth and international career.
Asmae, a Tourism and Hotel Management student from Morocco, has been gaining valuable experience and knowledge through her studies at Kauno Kolegija. She chose this program because of her fascination with how travel connects people and cultures, and she felt that Kaunas would be the ideal place to challenge herself and grow in an international environment. The program combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge, helping her understand the true meaning of hospitality.
During her first year in Lithuania, Asmae experienced living abroad independently for the first time. Adapting to a new culture and becoming self-reliant taught her a lot about herself and others. She particularly enjoyed the outdoor activities and field trips organized by professors, which offered real-life experience and a practical perspective on tourism. Through these experiences, she developed teamwork and communication skills, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for Lithuania’s nature and cultural heritage.
Asmae emphasizes that studying at Kauno Kolegija has been transformative, helping her grow personally and professionally, while preparing her to build a career where she can create memorable experiences for others.
Asmae, a Tourism and Hotel Management student from Morocco, has been gaining valuable experience and knowledge through her studies at Kauno Kolegija. She chose this program because of her fascination with how travel connects people and cultures, and she felt that Kaunas would be the ideal place to challenge herself and grow in an international environment. The program combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge, helping her understand the true meaning of hospitality.
During her first year in Lithuania, Asmae experienced living abroad independently for the first time. Adapting to a new culture and becoming self-reliant taught her a lot about herself and others. She particularly enjoyed the outdoor activities and field trips organized by professors, which offered real-life experience and a practical perspective on tourism. Through these experiences, she developed teamwork and communication skills, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for Lithuania’s nature and cultural heritage.
Asmae emphasizes that studying at Kauno Kolegija has been transformative, helping her grow personally and professionally, while preparing her to build a career where she can create memorable experiences for others.
Asmae, a Tourism and Hotel Management student from Morocco, has been gaining valuable experience and knowledge through her studies at Kauno Kolegija. She chose this program because of her fascination with how travel connects people and cultures, and she felt that Kaunas would be the ideal place to challenge herself and grow in an international environment. The program combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge, helping her understand the true meaning of hospitality.
During her first year in Lithuania, Asmae experienced living abroad independently for the first time. Adapting to a new culture and becoming self-reliant taught her a lot about herself and others. She particularly enjoyed the outdoor activities and field trips organized by professors, which offered real-life experience and a practical perspective on tourism. Through these experiences, she developed teamwork and communication skills, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for Lithuania’s nature and cultural heritage.
Asmae emphasizes that studying at Kauno Kolegija has been transformative, helping her grow personally and professionally, while preparing her to build a career where she can create memorable experiences for others.
NARGIZ HAJIYEVA (Azerbaijan)
NARGIZ HAJIYEVA (Azerbaijan)
NARGIZ HAJIYEVA (Azerbaijan)
Nargiz studied Political Science and Diplomacy at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU), graduating in 2017. During her Master’s, she joined the European Academy of Diplomacy, studied abroad at Sciences Po Grenoble, and completed Erasmus+ internships at research centres across Europe.
Now a Ph.D. political scientist, Nargiz is Director of the Organisation of Scientific Activities Unit in Azerbaijan, chairs the Women Researchers’ Council, and leads a working group at the Swiss Political Science Association.
She highlights the power of scientific writing, networking, and collaboration in building an international career. Her advice: don’t limit yourself to traditional paths — political science opens many doors beyond diplomacy.
Nargiz studied Political Science and Diplomacy at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU), graduating in 2017. During her Master’s, she joined the European Academy of Diplomacy, studied abroad at Sciences Po Grenoble, and completed Erasmus+ internships at research centres across Europe.
Now a Ph.D. political scientist, Nargiz is Director of the Organisation of Scientific Activities Unit in Azerbaijan, chairs the Women Researchers’ Council, and leads a working group at the Swiss Political Science Association.
She highlights the power of scientific writing, networking, and collaboration in building an international career. Her advice: don’t limit yourself to traditional paths — political science opens many doors beyond diplomacy.
Nargiz studied Political Science and Diplomacy at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU), graduating in 2017. During her Master’s, she joined the European Academy of Diplomacy, studied abroad at Sciences Po Grenoble, and completed Erasmus+ internships at research centres across Europe.
Now a Ph.D. political scientist, Nargiz is Director of the Organisation of Scientific Activities Unit in Azerbaijan, chairs the Women Researchers’ Council, and leads a working group at the Swiss Political Science Association.
She highlights the power of scientific writing, networking, and collaboration in building an international career. Her advice: don’t limit yourself to traditional paths — political science opens many doors beyond diplomacy.
Maka Berulava (Georgia)
Maka Berulava (Georgia)
Maka Berulava (Georgia)
Maka completed her Bachelor’s degree in International Politics and Development at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) in 2023. During her studies, she actively engaged in volunteering, internships, and Erasmus exchanges, which helped her build valuable experience and networks.
She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Russian and Post-Soviet Politics at University College London (UCL), continuing her academic journey at one of the world’s leading universities.
Maka encourages students to seize opportunities early — from improving language and academic skills to gaining hands-on experience and preparing for future research. For those considering a Ph.D., she stresses the importance of strong applications, networking, and clear research proposals. Her advice: treat your undergraduate years as a foundation for a bigger academic and professional path.
Maka completed her Bachelor’s degree in International Politics and Development at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) in 2023. During her studies, she actively engaged in volunteering, internships, and Erasmus exchanges, which helped her build valuable experience and networks.
She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Russian and Post-Soviet Politics at University College London (UCL), continuing her academic journey at one of the world’s leading universities.
Maka encourages students to seize opportunities early — from improving language and academic skills to gaining hands-on experience and preparing for future research. For those considering a Ph.D., she stresses the importance of strong applications, networking, and clear research proposals. Her advice: treat your undergraduate years as a foundation for a bigger academic and professional path.
Maka completed her Bachelor’s degree in International Politics and Development at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) in 2023. During her studies, she actively engaged in volunteering, internships, and Erasmus exchanges, which helped her build valuable experience and networks.
She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Russian and Post-Soviet Politics at University College London (UCL), continuing her academic journey at one of the world’s leading universities.
Maka encourages students to seize opportunities early — from improving language and academic skills to gaining hands-on experience and preparing for future research. For those considering a Ph.D., she stresses the importance of strong applications, networking, and clear research proposals. Her advice: treat your undergraduate years as a foundation for a bigger academic and professional path.
Coming to study in Kaunas was an opportunity and a challenge. Looking back after living here for more than three years makes me smile. Of course, there were some obstacles to overcome, but they are easily outweighed by the many international friends who have become my family. Abstract medical concepts became clearer thanks to the problem-based learning approach applied at the university.
Coming to study in Kaunas was an opportunity and a challenge. Looking back after living here for more than three years makes me smile. Of course, there were some obstacles to overcome, but they are easily outweighed by the many international friends who have become my family. Abstract medical concepts became clearer thanks to the problem-based learning approach applied at the university.
Coming to study in Kaunas was an opportunity and a challenge. Looking back after living here for more than three years makes me smile. Of course, there were some obstacles to overcome, but they are easily outweighed by the many international friends who have become my family. Abstract medical concepts became clearer thanks to the problem-based learning approach applied at the university.
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