By Karabo Malope
From September 2024 to January 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to study at Vilnius University in Lithuania as part of the International Student Exchange Programme (ISEP). This journey began when I applied for the programme in my second year at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), and I was honoured to be the only student from my department selected to study in Lithuania.
Academic excellence and adaptation
One of my greatest achievements during this exchange was excelling academically in a foreign learning environment. I attained 100% in three out of four designated modules, a feat that required me to quickly adapt to the Lithuanian education system. This success was made possible through my proactive approach to learning, engaging with lecturers for guidance, and immersing myself in new teaching methodologies. The experience reinforced my ability to adjust to different academic settings and embrace new ways of thinking and problem-solving.
Cultural exchange and personal growth
Beyond academics, the exchange programme allowed me to meet students from various countries, introducing me to different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Engaging with diverse perspectives enriched my understanding of the world and deepened my appreciation for global diversity. Being open to learning about different customs and traditions played a crucial role in my personal development, making me more adaptable and culturally aware.
Living alone in a foreign country was both challenging and rewarding. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, teaching me independence, resilience, and self-reliance. Navigating everyday life in a new environment strengthened my confidence and ability to handle unfamiliar situations with a positive mindset.
UJ’s support and global vision
This opportunity would not have been possible without UJ’s commitment to global learning and student development. Through its support for exchange programmes like ISEP, UJ empowers students to broaden their academic and cultural horizons, fostering international collaboration and professional growth. The university’s dedication to producing globally competent graduates is evident in its encouragement of students to seek opportunities beyond their home country.
A broader worldview and professional networks
One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was being integrated into the European education system, which broadened my academic and professional outlook. Studying at Vilnius University exposed me to different teaching and learning styles, allowing me to appreciate the nuances of global education. Additionally, I had the privilege of building meaningful connections with highly educated and inspiring individuals, whom I believe will play a role in my future academic and career endeavours.
This journey has expanded my worldview, making me more open-minded and receptive to different perspectives and ways of living. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of international education and its ability to transform not only academic knowledge but also personal and professional growth.
As Chantal Mitchell once said, “Study abroad is the single most effective way of changing the way we view the world.” My experience in Lithuania has done exactly that—it has shaped me into a more confident, adaptable, and globally aware individual, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities.
