“Everyone from Kharkiv will tell you that it’s simply the best city in the world,” says Daria Friahina, a KTU Business Digitalization Management alumna from Ukraine. Daria moved to Lithuania when the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine began and she needed a safe place to continue her studies.
For Daria, Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) became much more than just a place to study. Coming from Kharkiv, a vibrant Ukrainian city full of parks, young people and lively urban life, she found Kaunas too compact and calm. However, over time, she fell in love with the city. Now, after four years spent here, Daria, in her own words, “fully embraces” its vibe. She is grateful to KTU for helping her rebuild her path and shape a new future.
Finding Friends, Support and Opportunities
KTU quickly turned into one of the main pillars of her integration into life in Lithuania. “It helped me adapt during one of the most stressful periods of my life,” Daria says. Through the university, she found friends, received psychological support and had the opportunity to travel across Europe with Erasmus+.
Daria admits that at first she was not impressed by Kaunas. She arrived in March, when the weather was gloomy and the streets were almost empty. Coming from a large city like Kharkiv, Kaunas initially felt too small and quiet. “However, over time, it really grew on me,” she says. She fell in love with its cosy streets, calm atmosphere, abundance of greenery and parks, and the distinct charm of Lithuanian culture, eventually fully embracing the “Kaunastic” vibe.
Climbing Gym Among the Best Things at KTU
Looking back, she lists three things she loved most about her studies at KTU: the professors, the climbing gym and the exchange opportunities. “The professors were definitely the best part,” Daria says. “They genuinely cared about their students and always wanted to provide the best learning experience. They were approachable, supportive, and always willing to share opportunities and advice.” While she notes that some modules could have been planned and organised slightly better, the overall experience left a very positive impression.
These experiences strengthened both her confidence and her international outlook.
As for the future, Daria is still deciding on her next step. “That’s probably the hardest question for any graduate,” she admits. She would like to continue her studies and pursue a master’s degree, possibly at KTU. Whatever she chooses, the years spent at KTU – from safe beginnings in a new country to international academic and professional achievements – have already become an important part of her story.
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