“Exchange is not only about visiting different countries”

Nino Abuselidze, Master student of Diplomacy and International Relations at VMU // Erasmus studies in Estonia and Finland

,,In a contemporary world we are blessed with countless opportunities and each of them bring something new. For this reason, I came to Lithuania and for me Vytautas Magnus University became a place full of new opportunities, new adventures and new experiences.

During my two years of studies, I did Erasmus exchange twice, first at Tartu University and then at Helsinki University. For my professional and personal growth, I can never think of a better decision than going on an exchange. It taught me much about myself, my weaknesses and it has also opened new doors for me.

A lot of people have asked me why I chose those two countries. ,,It would be very cold with no sun, plus people are not always that friendly”-this was what my friends told me before leaving. However, when deciding, I was guided by what receiving institutions could offer rather than by countries themselves. And yes, it was difficult to adapt a completely different culture, weather, study process, however, these things have proved my capabilities and adaptability. I think, all of us have general ideas on what we are going to do in specific situations, however, when facing them, we find out that in practice it is a lot harder.

New friends are the most cheerful, happy and funny part of an exchange. I have learned a lot about social relations and interpersonal communication. And these skills, I believe, are one of the most valuable. I was raised in an environment of tolerance and acceptance, but mainly in theory, because you are not always able to find a lot of differences around you, especially in my country, Georgia. I found out that attitudes may change when you have a direct contact with a person form different background. Also, I have realized that Better Understanding is for a Better World. As people around the world meet, talk, discuss, exchange-they know better how to make an informed decision. I believe that as many opportunities we have to interact and communicate, the happier world we will make, because we will understand each other, and our opinions will not be based on stereotypes.

Exchange is not only about visiting different countries, learning their cultures and making new friends, but also about new skills, new experiences and new networks-background that every good professional should have. People with diverse contexts, cultures and background see and evaluate the same events differently, analyze the same situations differently. Daily contact with new friends, course mates, neighbors not only has expanded my horizons of knowledge but also my worldview. Different unique programs, different approaches and study methods are another advantage to go for exchange. While understanding these differences from my own practice, seeing various implementation of politics, I have improved not only my theoretical and practical skills, but have also started to think out of box and see what is behind the picture we see. Now I feel more of global citizen than before.

I strongly believe that education should not be limited to one country’s borders. Therefore, I recommend to all the students of VMU to do exchange as it is life altering, once in a lifetime experience. Do it for yourself, because for the most part, you will learn about yourself rather than others. Remember that it is not going to be easy, but it will be worth it.