International Opportunities: The VU Medical Student Experience Abroad
The Vilnius University (VU) Fund for Teaching and Learning Internationalisation Initiatives has been established to help students gain international experience, build academic networks, and deepen knowledge in their fields. One of the students who took advantage of this opportunity is Benediktas Vachninas, a Master’s student in semiotics who attended the 60th Tartu Summer School Conference "Learning in Transformation". This experience provided him with insights into the latest trends in semiotics as well as the opportunity to present his research and engage in discussions with scholars from all over the world.
"When I started my Master studies, I developed a strong interest in the current direction of semiotics and wanted to learn what researchers are shaping the future of this field. Participating in this conference allowed me to dive deeper into these topics and discussions, as well as evaluate the significance of my own research," reflected the student.
At the event, which featured experts from such countries as Estonia, Croatia, Germany, the Netherlands, and the USA, Benediktas presented his research paper on the links between learning and medicine through a semiotic lens. While the student was initially worried that his topic might appear too unconventional alongside the other presentations, his work gained significant interest.
"The multicultural audience was not only active in asking questions but also offering perspectives from their own research experiences. The positive feedback gave me more confidence in my research path," said Benediktas.
Beyond the official presentations, the conference was also rich in informal discussions. "Among the highlights of the experience were the ‘coffee breaks’, which evolved into behind-the-scenes conversations. Such discussions often lead to unexpected insights. During one of them, I suddenly realised in what direction I could take my future research," noted the VU student.
The participants of the 60th conference also had the opportunity to visit Kääriku – the town where the first Tartu Summer Camp was held on the initiative of Estonian semiotics pioneer Jurij Lotman. "I have long been curious to see the archive photos and hear first-hand stories about the first events organised by this school. I didn’t just observe Estonian semiotic history and traditions, but also became a part of them,"remarked Benediktas.
The trip was funded by the VU Fund for Teaching and Learning Internationalisation Initiatives. Thanks to the efforts of Dr Paulius Jevsejevas and the VU Central Administration staff, the processing of the funding application and other documents was quick and smooth. Thus, Benediktas encourages his fellow students to explore these opportunities and start preparing in advance by gathering and submitting the necessary documents and/or applications.
Such hands-on international experience not only broadens academic horizons but also opens doors to lasting academic connections. "I met many passionate researchers from across the globe – the individuals who inspire endless conversations," added the student.
More information on the funding opportunities from the VU Fund for Teaching and Learning Internationalisation Initiatives can be found here.