“My academic journey has been a mix of passion and curiosity, and I have always been keen on expanding my knowledge,” says Raja Vignesh Thirukumaran, fresh-out-of-KTU graduate of MSc in Industrial Engineering and Management from Tamil Nadu in India.
Raja Vignesh found Kaunas University of Technology after extensive research on the internet. He says that KTU, which happened to be 7,000 kilometres away from home, stood out for its academic programmes, research opportunities and innovative educational approach.
“From the first days on the campus, I saw that the university had a vibrant academic environment, supportive faculty, and modern facilities. Kaunas seemed to me a charming city with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere,” remembers a young industrial engineer.
Supportive teachers and friendly learning environment
He says that he chose his studies due to being curious about the world: “I have always been interested in both production and management. I decided to pursue this path during my high school years when I realised how much I enjoyed learning about managing the production field.”
Hands-on learning experience and the access to cutting-edge research and technology were the main advantages that Raja Vignesh pointed out as being the most beneficial during his studies.
“The professors were supportive, and the international environment made learning even more enriching,” says the fresh-out-of-university graduate. However, he would have appreciated more opportunities for practical internships in Lithuanian companies.
Although Raja Vignesh learned to appreciate Kaunas in time – he made friends, explored the city’s hidden gems and started feeling at home far away from home – it was not easy at the beginning. He admits feeling homesick and isolated, spending most of the time indoors. However, one summer day changed it all.
“One summer afternoon three years ago, with friends we met a group of local youngsters by the riverside. They came over to talk to us, asking about our life and where we were from. We ended up chatting and laughing for hours. It was such a simple but happy moment that made me feel welcome,” remembers Raja with a smile.
Meeting friendly strangers helped overcome homesickness
Raja admits that after that day he felt more confident and started coming out of his shell – talking to more people, not just locals but also other international students.
“Meeting those friendly strangers helped me overcome my homesickness. That day I realised that the world is huge! Exploring new people and their cultures made me understand how much I could enjoy life in Kaunas by connecting with others,” says a KTU alumni from India.
Now, after graduation, the young professional is considering different options – one of them is pursuing a doctorate in Transport Engineering, as he wants to deepen his knowledge and to specialise further. However, Raja stays open to other options, too.
“Lithuania has been a great experience, and I would love to work here if the right opportunity arises. However, I am also considering options back home or elsewhere in Europe where I can grow professionally,” says a motivated KTU alumni.
Dream big with your studies! KTU offers 27 Bachelor’s and 32 Master’s programs in English. Choose your path and apply by the end of June 2025.
