Hobbies: theater, dance, reading, writing, swimming, travel, languages
Contacts: [email protected]
My name is Zakaria, I’m from Morocco. I study International Politics and Development Studies on 3rd year. I'm an open mind person, creative, cheerful, reliable, self-confident, trustworthy, communicative, rebel against the mainstream who like to try unusual things
What were your main reasons for choosing Lithuania?
I like Eastern European culture, history, mentality, social values, and Lithuania is a great place to experience it. Also study program, education system and student life here seemed appealing to me.
What was the most surprising for you that you saw in Lithuania?
I was expecting to have a language barrier in my first year (according to Eurobarometer in 2012, 38% of Lithuanians speak English), however nearly all people under 40 speaks English fluently with only basic knowledge in Russian. I was expecting to find more second language Russian speakers than English.
How did you get information about VMU and your study program?
When the idea to came to Lithuania came to my mind, I made a research of Lithuanian universities and I decided to came to VMU. I contacted the International Office and started the enrollment process. I have heard about VMU years ago before coming to Lithuania, while I was reading about history of Lithuania.
Compared to your country, what are the main differences when it comes to student life?
In Marroco public universities no activities are organised at all. I was the only Moroccan involved in African Students and Trainee Confederation. When it comes to private universities they have more or less similar student activities like here at VMU. In Marocco I was only involved in AIESEC, however I wanted more things like ESN because I appreciate what ESN do. For example I share my culture and learn from the others.
Can you comment the quality of studies at VMU?
To put it shortly - excellent.
Could you share your most interesting personal experience in Lithuania?
Actually most of my experience in Lithuania are interesting. I had a lot of fun, a lot of adventures, and I tried a lot of things during theese 3 years already.
If you had to describe VMU in general, what three factors you would highlight?
For me personally:
- Quality education: the system is decentralized and we have many scholars who teach, but for me the most important thing is that during the classes you learn a lot. If the subject is interesting for you, you will definitely leave the class with new knowledge and information, moreover during classes I can share my thoughts and debate with the lecturers about the various topics.
- International friendly environment: actually when I decided to come to Lithuania I was not aware that I will find students from as much as 50 countries, even from further ones like Japan, Brazil and Nigeria. The most important thing that I want to highlight in this point, is to compare it with London. When I studied in London it was diverse but people were unfriendly and uninterested to meet with foreigners, however here in VMU and in Lithuania in general, both Lithuanians and foreigners are generally open minded, friendly and interested to meet people from other cultures.
- Fun: VMU is not only about studies, but through various students organizations, students can enjoy their time and have fun.
Would you recommend studying in Lithuania?
In Lithuanian I would say žinoma (of course). If someone is looking for quality education, friendly international environment, fun and wonderful culture I will tell him or her to come to Lithuania.