VU Ambassador Sean Christopher Fitzpatrick: “Student for a Day” Is Invaluable for International Students
Sean Christopher Fitzpatrick. Photo credit: personal archives
“Student for a Day” really helped me make my decision to study here. Honestly, the event is invaluable for international students”, says Vilnius University (VU) ambassador Sean Christopher Fitzpatrick. The second-year student of Politics of Global Challenges at VU Institute of International Relations and Political Science is not only a VU ambassador, but he is also a member of the VU Student Representation and mentor for first-year students, this year he is one of the organisers of the “Student for a Day” events.
S. C. Fitzpatrick arrived at VU from Ireland. His decision to study at VU was influenced by Lithuania’s role in international politics: “I always wanted to study abroad, so I was searching very intently. Factors such as the relatively low cost of studies and the availability of housing were influential. In the end, it was Lithuania’s response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that convinced me that VU was a stellar option. Lithuania stood up when other nations stumbled. I wanted to be in step with those leading from the front. After witnessing such courage, there was no competition.
The student reveals that he is delighted with his choice to study specifically at VU: “I thoroughly enjoy studying at VU. I am delighted that I made the decision to come here. I have never regretted it for a second. I think this university is fantastic for international students. I feel a strong sense of community both with international and Lithuanian students. I have met so many wonderful people from all over the world - never a dull conversation! There is a real buzzing atmosphere about the city, too. I feel that Vilnius is a very underrated city. I think it’s only a matter of time before word gets out and the city shines on the global stage.”
Before attending VU, S. C. Fitzpatrick participated in the “Student for a Day” event, which, according to him, played a significant role in his decision to study at VU: “Student for a Day” really helped me in my decision to study here. Honestly, the event is invaluable for international students. The application process for university, in general, can often be monotonous and stressful. This event highlighted to me that I would be studying with fascinating and accommodating people. The students, staff and lecturers involved in the event were all terrifically friendly and welcoming. It made me excited to finally arrive in September.”
S. C. Fitzpatrick became a VU ambassador to spread the word to others about VU: “I really love studying here, and I would love for as many people as possible to have a similar experience as me. The studies, the people, the city - all are top-notch and deserve to be recognised around the world. I also really enjoy helping anyone with questions or issues related to the university, or life in general. I feel really grateful to be a student here. Being an ambassador is a way for me to give back to the community, and hopefully help it to thrive.”
As a VU ambassador, this year, S. C. Fitzpatrick is organising one of the “Student for a Day” events aimed at international students: “Myself and other VU ambassadors will be having a virtual discussion event called “VU Ambassadors: First-hand Experience of What it’s Like to Study at VU”. We will each describe our successes, difficulties, and much more related to our time at VU. Anyone attending can also get involved. People can ask us any questions they may have. We would love for the event to be as interactive as possible. I am really looking forward to it.”
You can learn more about “Student for a Day” here.