How did you choose to study at IIRPS VU? What motivates you the most in your studies? 

I had to choose between several options to study. Since my childhood, I had always believed that I would study economics, but when I started studying online in the last years of the gymnasium, I realised that my wide range of interests, hobbies, and activities consisted of a variety of things that are difficult to define in one word or sentence, so I wanted to study in a programme that would not force me to “sit” in one place. Of course, the NGO sector and the interest in both local and foreign politics were points of contact in the final decision. 

In the study process, I think the main motivation point is the colleagues with whom you have to study, discuss, and, of course, have a good time outside the Institute. I heard about the community spirit at IIRPS VU while I was still at school – I can only agree that it really exists! 

You have recently taken up your position as the new VU SR IIRPS Chairman; how did you decide to take on this responsibility? What goals do you have for the coming year? 

Even when I was running for the position of VU SR IIRPS Chairman, I mentioned the word self-assessment several times in my speech. Time with myself, even doing a SWOT analysis, made me realise that I needed to take a step forward. I often say to myself and others: if you don’t try, you will regret it later, but if you don’t succeed, at least you tried! I tried, and the students trusted me – so it’s time to get to work!

As for the goals, I hope that the feedback from the students will allow me to identify grey or red areas that need attention. I believe that one of the main focuses this year will be the further integration of international students. Often the big words disappear, but I am already starting this aspect with the composition of my team by empowering and giving the opportunity to two international students who will act as a social area and marketing coordinators. 

VU SR IIRPS has been working a lot on the integration of international students; since the launch of the Politics of Global Challenges Programme this academic year, our community has changed a bit; why is the integration of international students important? What can we each do to contribute to strengthening our diverse community? 

Indeed, I am happy that the IIRPS VU community is changing, becoming more dynamic and remaining unique. The integration of students, whether Lithuanian or foreign, is an extremely important process that allows each and everyone to become a part of our Institute. Personally, as a first-year mentor, I was and am happy to interact and get to know the students, to advise them, to give them confidence and to answer all their questions. As far as I have been able to interact with international students, they have been very positive about our environment, both about the Institute and its community and about Vilnius and other cities – so I can only encourage and wish that: by loving our own country, we can also show to foreigners that Lithuania is a good place to be! 

You have been a member of a number of youth NGOs; what has your journey in youth organisations been like? 

I think it will come as no surprise that many active people’s activities start at school. When I was in a rural primary school, I seemed to do everything possible – from hosting events to singing in the choir and dancing. I was also president of the school, where the foundations were laid for activities in non-governmental organisations – I joined the Lithuanian Students’ Union, where I had to experience both marketing and communication and finally, I became chairman of the Gargždai branch. Of course, through my experience, I also got to know the activities of the Klaipėda District Round Table, the non-partisan policy monitoring network “I Know What I’m Electing”, and the White Gloves. When I started my studies at IIRPS VU, I came up with the idea that it was not worth giving up the road for the trial, so I joined the VU SR IIRPS team without any big considerations. I am glad that last year I had the opportunity to work as a communication coordinator, to be a mentor of first-year students, and to get to know the university and its environment in other areas. I believe that this journey is not over yet – my friends and I have already joked that after ten years, I will still not leave NGOs. 

What would you like to wish the IIRPS VU community? 

I believe that the month of May is academically demanding and requires a lot of strength and energy. Therefore, I wish everyone to find inner peace, students and lecturers to finish the session successfully and to enjoy the fruits of education and work!