Clemens (Germany) looks back at his time at Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania

I graduated in Germany with my bachelor's degree in Mechatronics at the University of Applied Science Koblenz. Afterwards I decided to continue my studies abroad at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). Here I attended the master program of mechatronics with a specialization in micro- and nanotechnology.

At the university I acquired a lot of useful knowledge – according measurement methods to analyze nanostructures and materials as well as innovative manufacturing processes such as 3D-printing, electron beam melting, etc. In contrast to my technical subjects, I was also able to take some classes in Lithuanian language which was quite a challenge for me. Still I managed to learn some important basics, like how to ask for someone's name or order drinks at the bar.

During my studies I took part in an ERASMUS internship at the Fraunhofer Institute of Production Technology in Aachen, Germany. Later on, I finished my studies writing my thesis in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute and one of its spin-off companies called “son-x”. One highlight of my studies was the graduation ceremony at Žalgiris arena, where I received my diploma from the president of Lithuania, Daila Grybauskaitė. After my graduation I continued working at the company son-x as a Research Engineer and right now I am a Project Manager at son-x systems.

Beside the university the student life in Kaunas was pretty nice. I frequently played football with my Lithuanian friends and participated in many events hosted by the ERASMUS Student Network (ESN) at KTU and also by ESN from the Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). Besides those events there are plenty of other possibilities to go out in Kaunas. There are bars and different clubs. This is always a good opportunity to get into contact with locals as well as other international students and all kinds of other people. I made a lot of friends in Lithuania who I visit frequently these days.

Looking back, studying in Lithuania was a great experience. Getting along with a different culture, living in another country and becoming more and more independent and self-confident were probably the most important skills I acquired while studying abroad. All in all, I enjoyed my time in Kaunas very much and I can recommend studying in Lithuania to everyone who has the opportunity.

(Provided by Kaunas University of Technology / Study in Lithuania.)