MRU Guide for International Students by I'm @MRU

Guide for International Students

Mykolas Romeris University International Office (IO) Ateities str. 20 LT-08303 Vilnius Lithuania +370 5 271 4695 (+370 5) 267 6000 erasmus@mruni.eu www.mruni.eu/en A lot of care has been taken to provide actual information at the time of publishing. All updates are available on the internet: www.mruni.eu/en/prospective_students/erasmus

Experiences from previous incoming exchange students Lorena Frakulli, University of Milan Bicocca, Italy I think that all Erasmus is the best moment ever. It is not separated by minimum and maximum. It is beautiful experience. When we have party together, have dinner together, spend time altogether and knowing people from different cultures, going out is amazing.

Cristina Soric, Alecu Russo Balti State University, Moldova Before I came here, I didn't know much about Lithuanian. Honestly, I had a good impression from the very beginning especially about Vilnius that is a very beautiful city.

Marco Pusceddu, University of Cagliari, Italy What was the first impression of Lithuania when you came here? A country full of green areas, forests and sun.

Armine Manasyan, Eurasia International University, Armenia Now each moment is in my mind. There is no day that I spend without thinking about MRU. Really, I miss everything.

Claudia Teixeira de Matos Vรกzquez, University of Valladolid, Spain The teacher made the classes very dynamic and dealt with topics that really are going to serve us in the future.

Mohamed Alsadig Hamid Musa, RUDN University, Russia I will highly recommend Erasmus+ to other students to come here and get a new opportunity to get to know new people, new aspects of life, and new culture.

Doreen Mamle Martey, University of Ghana, Ghana I would remember all the memories (wonderful time spent in class, hostel and with friends) made in Lithuania especially at MRU.

Shahar Chaman, Haifa University, Israel I met people from places that I never thought about and I feel like it is really helping me to appreciate the world that we have.

Anastasia Efremova, Ural Federal University, Russia I like the silence of Vilnius and the fact that I can see the stars at night 3

Content INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................6 MYKOLAS ROMERIS UNIVERSITY............................................................................................6 PROCEDURE OF MOBILITY AND APPLICATION.................................................................10 STUDYING AT MRU.........................................................................................................................15 Information about courses........................................................................................................15 Moodle..............................................................................................................................................15 Departmental (Academic) Coordinators..............................................................................16 Academic Calendar.......................................................................................................................18 FACILITIES AT MRU.........................................................................................................................19 International Office......................................................................................................................19 Canteen & Café at MRU...............................................................................................................20 Library...............................................................................................................................................21 Leisure Activities at MRU............................................................................................................23 Sport Facilities at MRU.................................................................................................................27 STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS........................................................................................................28 ESN MRU Vilnius.............................................................................................................................28 International Students Association (ISA)..............................................................................28 Students’ Representative Body of Mykolas Romeris University (MRUSA).................30 INTERNATIONALIZATION IN MRU...........................................................................................31 Asian Centre at MRU....................................................................................................................31 Vilnius King Sejong Institute (KSI) at Mykolas Romeris University..............................31 Centre of Francophone Countries’ Studies..........................................................................31 USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT LITHUANIA.......................................................................33 Vilnius ...............................................................................................................................................34 Lithuanian Cuisine........................................................................................................................35 Public Holidays in Lithuania......................................................................................................37 Do’s & Don’ts in Lithuania...........................................................................................................38 Useful Phrases and Words in Lithuanian...............................................................................39 Transportation................................................................................................................................40 Travelling..........................................................................................................................................43 Visa.....................................................................................................................................................46 4

Making Calls....................................................................................................................................47 Money...............................................................................................................................................47 Banks..................................................................................................................................................48 Electricity..........................................................................................................................................48 Supermarkets.................................................................................................................................48 Safety.................................................................................................................................................49 Healthcare........................................................................................................................................49 STUDENT LIFE...................................................................................................................................51 Accomodation................................................................................................................................51 Student Cards.................................................................................................................................54 Monthly Living Expenses...........................................................................................................55 Entertainment................................................................................................................................56 Clubs..................................................................................................................................................56 Cinema..............................................................................................................................................56 Shopping..........................................................................................................................................56 Cultural events in Vilnius............................................................................................................57 Music festivals in Lithuania........................................................................................................58 Museums & Galleries....................................................................................................................58 Concert halls...................................................................................................................................60 Theatres............................................................................................................................................60 Cultural and Information Centres............................................................................................60 Places to visit in Lithuania..............................................................................................................61 Useful Links..........................................................................................................................................67

INTRODUCTION Dear International students, Sveiki atvykÄ&#x2122;! - Welcome! We are delighted to welcome you to Mykolas Romeris University. It is the beginning of a new chapter in your life, a chapter that will be unique. We know that living abroad means discovering so many new and perhaps challenging things. Our team, with the help of ESN MRU Vilnius, will make this semester, this year or this whole degree as great and unforgettable as possible. This booklet is our first contribution to your stay. We hope that this period of your life will be unique and unforgettable! MRU International Office

MYKOLAS ROMERIS UNIVERSITY Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) is a dynamic social sciences university seeking to have a well-established position in European higher education. The University engages in fundamental and applied research, takes part in national, regional and international research programmes and projects, practically applies research results and disseminates them to the public.Encouraging dialogue and respect to different viewpoints, the University actively cooperates with over 200 universities worldwide, has a full membership of the following international higher education organizations: International Association of Universities (IAU), European University Association (EUA), European Association for International Education (EAIE), Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) and etc. 6

MRU is one of the largest public universities in Lithuania enrolling about 7 000 students, who are studying in 8 academic divisions on the bachelor, master and doctoral study levels. Over 25 study programmes are taught in English language. According to the QS World University Rankings (EECA) 2019, Mykolas Romeris University upgraded by 30 places since last year and is now in an honorable 148th place. International Students indicator is the strongest one talking about Mykolas Romeris University.

According to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;QS World University Rankings by Subject 2019â&#x20AC;? Mykolas Romeris University is ranked 251-300 worldwide in the area of law and is the only Lithuanian university ranked in this field

MRU CAMPUS PLAN:

Watcher

New generation help for the search 7

SUMMARY INFORMATION OF MRU INSTITUTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mykolas Romeris University ADDRESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ateities str. 20, LT-08303, Vilnius COUNTRY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lithuania

ID:

ERASMUS ID CODE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LT VILNIUS06 DEPARTMENT IN CHARGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . International Office (Room I-302) ADDRESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ateities str. 20, Vilnius, LT-08303, Lithuania TELEPHONE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (+370 5) 271 4695 or (+370 5) 271 4603 WEB SITE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mruni.eu E-MAIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . incoming@mruni.eu or erasmus@mruni.eu (for incoming exchange students and free-movers) E-MAIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . study@mruni.eu or student.support@mruni.eu (for international degree-seeking students) NUMBER OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS . . . . . . . . over 500 (majority from Ukraine, Turkey, France, Germany, Italy, Spain)

CONTACT PERSONS AT THE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

Audra Dargytė Burokienė Head of International Office, Institutional Erasmus coordinator

Room: I-317 (370 5) 271 4695 erasmus@mruni.eu

Diana Dulko

Rūta Guobužaitė International Students Support Manager

Room: I-404 (370 5) 271 4674 student.support@mruni.eu

Inesa Cvetkova Senior Manager, Responsible for Incoming Exchange Students

Room: I-302 (370 5) 271 4603 incoming@mruni.eu

Manager for Outgoing Students (for studies)

Raimonda Vaikutytė

Aura Greičiūtė

Manager for Outgoing Students (for traineeships)

Room: I-302 (370 5) 271 4579 exchange@mruni.eu

Manager, Responsible for International Marketing and Communication

Room: I-404 (370 5) 271 4522 marketing@mruni.eu

All team of the International Office at http://www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/international-office/contacts/ 9

PROCEDURE OF MOBILITY AND APPLICATION Once you have decided to study at Mykolas Romeris University, there are few important things you should take care of before the mobility, during the mobility and after the mobility. I. BEFORE COMING TO MYKOLAS ROMERIS UNIVERSITY:

FOR ERASMUS AND EXCHANGE STUDENTS:

•

After nomination from your university, you will receive a link to the online application package and other relevant pre-arrival information which is also available on the website: www.mruni.eu/en/prospective_students/erasmus

•

Application package includes application form, study plan and a request for accommodation. Only when ALL FIELDS of the application form have been completed, the online application system will allow to SUBMIT it.

•

The submitted study plan is afterwards converted into the Learning Agreement (according to Erasmus+ Learning Agreement template). The student is required to print out the Learning Agreement, sign it, collect mandatory signature of home University coordinator, and return the signed and scanned Learning Agreement via the online application system.

FOR FREE MOVERS: • •

Read the information for international students at www.mruni.eu/en/prospective_students/erasmus Fill-in the online application for Free-movers and attach the following documents: –– Copy of your personal document (ID Card for EU citizens or passport) –– Official transcript of records of ongoing studies at any higher education institution –– Certificate, which explains grading system, used in the academic institutions where you pursued (or expect to pursue) your degree or diploma

• • •

Check if you need to obtain visa Check if you have money to pay for your studies, because Free-mover must pay tuition fee! Confirm your date of arrival for the Introductory Week

MAKE SURE THAT YOU BRING THESE DOCUMENTS: • Passport or ID • Visa (if required) • Letter of Acceptance from MRU • European Health Insurance Card or a health insurance policy (valid in Lithuania) • Confirmation of accommodation • Three passport photographs • Learning Agreement signed by all three parties

II. DURING YOUR STAY IN MYKOLAS ROMERIS UNIVERSITY: • • • • •

Visit the International Office (room I-302) for the enrolment (unless done during the Introductory Week) Check if you need to obtain the Temporary Residence Permit or VISA If you stay in the student dormitory: Sign the contract with the Student House administration If you are a Free Mover: Sign the Agreement for Tuition Fee Payment at the International Office If you wish to make changes to your Learning Agreement, you may do so in the beginning of your mobility (later it is not possible). There is usualy time reserved for making changes to the Learning Agreement in two weeks after the beginning of the studies. Remember to inform and agree on all the changes with both The International Office in MRU and also your home institution.

III. AT THE END OF & AFTER YOUR STAY IN MYKOLAS ROMERIS UNIVERSITY: •

•

Before leaving the MRU and Lithuania, remember to visit the International Office to submit pre-departure form and to get the signature to your Letter of Confirmation, and all other documents which your home institution may require. Transcript of records is issued in 5 weeks after the end of semester.

FOR DEGREE SEEKING STUDENTS: Once your application to study at the University is considered successful, you will receive the conditional admission offer and the first year tuition fee invoice. In order to proceed further, you should: • Take decision in the apply.mruni.eu system by accepting the study offer; • Pay first year tuition fee; • Inform us by e-mail study@mruni.eu, to which Lithuanian Embassy you are going to apply for national multiple entry D type visa. The list of the Lithuanian Embassies is here: http://keliauk.urm. lt/en/embasycontacts. Upon receiving your decision and tuition fee, the University will send: • Copy of the admission letter; • Mediation letter number for your multiple entry D type visa for 1 year; • Study agreement. Before applying for D type visa please check the webpages of the embassies for the application form for your visa D as well as for the list of documents, which must be submitted when applying for visa. Your chosen Lithuanian Embassy will be informed about your admission to MRU.

Sometimes Lithuanian embassies/consulates make enquiries on the country, city, university you will be studying during the interview. So please be prepared to read additional information about Lithuania, Vilnius and of course the study program you are coming for. We strongly recommend obtaining a national multiple entry D type visa for all Non-EU students before arrival to Lithuania! When you have your flight tickets, inform us on your arrival details by

student.support@mruni.eu

Do not forget to fill in and bring your study agreement hardcopies. Upon arrival, visit the International Office (room I-404) for the enrolment (unless done during the Introductory Week). You must present a copy of your visa to the International Office (room I-404 or by email student.support@mruni.eu). If you will stay in Lithuania for more than 1 year you will have to obtain documents for your Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) in Lithuania at the International Office.

STUDYING AT MRU Studying at MRU might differ from studying at your home institution. Here we have listed some information that you might find helpful. Remember that if you have any problems, you can always ask for help from your ESN MRU Vilnius mentor, the International Office or professors.

Moodle Moodle is an open-source Virtual learning platform and it is used in many courses in MRU. You can find MRUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Moodle here: vma.mruni.eu/?lang=en daliam@mruni.eu 15

Departmental (Academic) Coordinators Below is a list of the responsible academic coordinators who can consult students on academic topics: Academic Affairs Centre

Mrs. Andželika Norkienė, Senior Academic Assistant

Tel.: (+ 370 5) 271 4576 E-mail: andzelika@mruni.eu

Faculty of Economics and Business

prof. dr. Irmantas Rotomskis, Vice-Dean

Tel.: (+370 5) 271 4657 E-mail: irotom@mruni.eu

Faculty of Public Governance

Svajūnė Ungurytė-Ragauskienė, Manager

Tel.: (+370 5) 2714656 E-mail: svajuneur@mruni.eu

Institute of Psychology

prof. dr. Rasa Pilkauskaitė Valickienė, Deputy Director, Vice-Dean

Tel.: (+370 5) 271 4713 E-mail: rvalick@mruni.eu

Mykolas Romeris Law School

assoc. prof. dr. Dovilė Gailiūtė- Janušonė, Vice-Dean

Tel.: (+370 5) 271 4597 E-mail: dgailiute@mruni.eu

Public Security Academy

prof. dr. Snieguolė Matulienė, Vice-dean

Tel.: (+370 37) 303 641 E-mail: m.sniega@mruni.eu

Institute of Educational Science and Social Work

assoc. prof. dr. Gražina Čiuladienė, Director for Studies, Vice-Dean prof. dr. Irena Žemaitaitytė, Deputy Director Vice-Dean

Institute of Humanities

Dr. Viktorija Mažeikienė, Deputy Director

Institute of Communication

Tel.: (+370 5) 2714736 E-mail: grazina.ciuladiene@mruni.eu Tel.: (+370 5) 2714710 E-mail: irene@mruni.eu Tel.: (+370 5) 2714529 E-mail: vmazeikiene@mruni.eu

Embrace your future now! 17

Academic Calendar 2019/2020 Autumn semester: Introductory week: Date of arrival: Lectures: Christmas holiday: Examinations: Deadline for Applications: Retake of Examinations:

from 2 September, 2019 to 2 February, 2020 from 26 August, 2019 to 1 September, 2019 26 August, 2019 from 2 September, 2019 to 22 December, 2019 from 23 December, 2019 to 29 December 2019 from 30 December, 2019 to 26 January, 2020 31 May, 2019 from 27 January, 2020 to 2 February, 2020

Spring semester: Introductory week: Date of arrival: Lectures: Examinations: Retake of Examinations: Summer holidays: Deadline for Applications:

from 3 February, 2020 to 28 June, 2020 from 27 January, 2020 to 2 February, 2020 27 January, 2020 from 3 February, 2020 to 24 May, 2020 from 25 May, 2020 to 21 June, 2020 from 22 June, 2020 to 28 June, 2020 from 1 July, 2020 to 31 August, 2020 30 November, 2019

FACILITIES AT MRU International Office

The International Office of Mykolas Romeris University coordinates and assists in all matters related to the internationalization of the University. It is here where you get all the important papers signed, such as: • •

The Learning Agreement (in the beginning of the exchange) The Letter of Confirmation (at the end of the exchange).

Remember that these documents are fundamental - for exchange students so do not forget to get them signed! Changes to the Learning Agreement. If you make some changes to your Learning Agreement, remember to inform International Office of MRU, and also your home institution. During the first two weeks of the semester, you may attend the classes and see if you meet the basic requirements and if they answer your expectations. If you have any questions or encounter problems, feel free to ask for help from the International Office. Staff members will surely advise you and help you to find a solution. Working hours: Monday – Thursday 8:00 – 16:45 Friday 8:00 – 15:30 Lunch break 12:00 – 13:00 Student meeting time: Monday – Thursday 14:00 – 16:00

Canteen & Café at MRU There is a canteen and a café at MRU. The canteen is open usually from 8:00 to 16:00 (on Fridays from 8:00 to 15:00) from 8:00 to 16:00 (on Fridays 8:00 to 15:00). Lunch at the canteen costs 2-4 euros. The canteen is located in the fourth building. Besides the canteen, there is a café on the campus . At Coffee Hill you can get coffee and sandwiches, et cetera. Coffee Hill is located quite near the canteen, in the second building. Coffee Hill is open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 to 20:00, and on Saturdays from 8:00 to 17:00.

Library Mykolas Romeris University has library where you can find materials regarding to the university’s priority research and study areas.

The library is open for everyone, however, only the students of MRU can loan materials, others can use the materials in the library.

There are reading and group study rooms available in the library. You can loan the books from the lending department.

Printing, copying & scanning (paid service): In the library you have the possibility to scan, copy and print your documents. However, before using the devices, you need to: • •

Purchase a 2 Euro or 5 Euro voucher from the FoxBox machine Enter the voucher code (received by mail or sms) in https://print.mruni.eu or select recharge credit from the device

Printing account (https://print.mruni.eu) can be used to send the document to print, enter the voucher code and view print jobs history. More detailed information: www.mruni.eu/mru_lt_dokumentai/biblioteka/pdf/Print_Copy_Scan_MRU.pdf 21

Opening hours: Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday

8:00 - 18:45 and 19:00 - 03:00 8:00 - 20:00 9:00 - 18:00 19:00 - 24:00

Closed the last Friday from 8:00 to 14:00 and on public holidays.

More information about the library: www.mruni.eu/en/university/library Online catalogue: http://mru.library.lt/en Ebooks: http://ebooks.mruni.eu/

Leisure Activities at MRU Mykolas Romeris University offers a great deal of different leisure activities at the university. Leisure activities include sport related activities, music related activities, et cetera. All the activities are free of charge.

University Band

Students can create a band, which includes keys, brass instruments, guitar and vocal. Come along and create the group! Leader Dalė Maskoliūnienė,

Pop Vocal Group

+ 370 687 84450,

vadove@gmail.com

In the MRU’s Pop Vocal Group students are taught to sing in various popular music styles. The repertoire of the Pop Vocal Group is diverse, authentic and at the same time innovative. Some of the compositions are performed without using any instruments. The Pop Vocal Group‘s concert programme is composed of well-known Lithuanian and foreign jazz composers‘ compositions, popular songs and songs written by students themselves, which are arranged and specially adapted for the group by its leader Artūras Novikas. The Pop Vocal Group is a frequent performer on various occasions at Mykolas Romeris University, at special events in the city and in student-organized fundraisers and fests. They also appear on national television and organize concerts. More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/ pop_vokaline_grupe Leader Artūras Novikas,

+370-698-88913,

a.novikas@takas.lt 23

Song Studio

The MRU Song Studio invites students to join and sing. Learn the basics of classical singing with correct breathing techniques, the right position, stage presence and more. You will also learn the basics of vocal exercises - solfeggio. The Studio’s repertoire includes sacred and contemporary music from Lithuanian and foreign composers. There will be rehearsals and one – on – one vocal exercises. The Song Studio will especially focus on the quality of singing and performing a work professionally. Studio singers will participate in University events and perform in concerts, festivals and events in Vilnius. More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/ song-studio Concertmaster Vitalija Semeniukienė,

String Quartet

+370-618-55291

Do you play the violin or cello? Maybe String Quartet is for you then! String Quartet leader Povilas Jacunskas is a winner of many national and international competitions. More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/ styginiu_kvartetas Leader Povilas Jacunskas,

p.jacunskas@gmail.com

Dance Studio: “Club Salsa”

Mykolas Romeris University is organizing a new dance group and seeking dancers who want to dance Salsa (Cuban, San Francisco, New York). More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/ sokiu_studija/klubas_salsa Leader Dalė Maskoliūnienė,

Dance Studio “Bolero”

+ 370 687 84450,

vadove@gmail.com

Each year Dance Studio “Bolero” creates a whole new repertoire, which is more and more varied and complex. Dance Studio members learn new dance techniques and new ways of movement during rehearsals as well as create new dances. More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/ sokiu_studija/sportiniu_sokiu_grupe_bolero Leader Dalė Maskoliūnienė,

+ 370 687 84450,

vadove@gmail.com

Theatre Studio

At the Studio students are able to show what they are capable of and to find and express their hidden talents. With a help of the studio, students are encouraged to develop their abilities to appear on stage: to sing, play an instrument, create poetic lines and texts, musical etudes, and develop oratory speaking skills and fluid movements on stage. Members of the Theatre Studio have a possibility to attend performances of the National Drama Teatre for free. That is how horizons are expanded and knowledge of the art of acting and the theatre is gained â&#x20AC;&#x201C; by observing professional actors on stage and by discussing performances and meeting with the actors themselves. The Theatre Studio is always waiting for talented students and even for those who doubt their particular talents but want to try out their abilities on stage. More information: www.mruni.eu/en/university/organizational_structure/estetinio_ugdymo_centras/teatro_studija Theater Head Julius Dautartas,

julius_dautartas@mruni.eu

Sport Facilities at MRU In MRU there are two sport halls and an indoor gym as well as an outdoor gym. Also aerobic is organized twice a week. International Students can join the following teams: • Basketball • Karate • Judo • Bodybuilding club

Mykolo Romerio universitetas

Ateities g.

Liudo Giros st.

Sport activities are free of charge for students. It is possible to book the sport halls to play on your own.

Baltupių g.

Student HOUSE

For more detail information, please contact:

Health and Sports Centre Ateities str. 20 LT-08303 Vilnius Room: II-106 (370 5) 271 4591 spc@mruni.eu

Didlaukio g. Didlaukio g.

S. Stanevičiaus g. Geležinio vilko g.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ESN MRU Vilnius ESN MRU Vilnius is a section of ESN Lithuania. ESN MRU Vilnius is a group of volunteers who help International Exchange Students of MRU to adapt and explore new life in Lithuania. Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is one of the biggest interdisciplinary student associations in Europe, founded in 1989 for supporting and developing student exchange. Now with 525 local associations supporting international and exchange students across 40 countries in Europe, ESN covers over 1,000 Higher Education Institutions. ESN works for the creation of a more mobile and flexible education environment by supporting and developing the student exchange from different levels, and providing an intercultural experience also to those students who cannot access a period abroad (“internationalisation at home”). The main focus of ESN is placed on current exchange students, who often face problems (and feel abandoned) in their new environments. Therefore, ESN offers help in academic, social and practical integration process. ESN MRU Vilnius offers: • Mentors system • SocialErasmus events • Learning languages projects • Many cultural and leisure events • Trips – around Lithuania, Russia, Lapland and more • Parties 28

To see the future events, trips, survival guide, further accommodation info and more, visit the pages: ESN MRU Vilnius: mru.esnlithuania.org ESN MRU Vilnius Facebook: www.facebook.com/esn.mru.vilnius ESN Lithuania: www.esnlithuania.org ESN International: www.esn.org mru@esnlithuania.org Room: II-214

International Students Association International Students Association (ISA) is created with the aim of uniting all international full-time students of MRU together, to assist international students adapt to university life and achieve our common objectives: • •

To represent international students To collaborate with other student organizations in order to resolve issues affecting international students of MRU in the areas of academics, social and living conditions • To provide mentoring support • To play intermediary role between international students and the University Authority; • To organize events and intercultural activities; isa@mruni.eu More information: www.mruni.eu/en/current_students/international-students-association 29

Students’ Representative Body of Mykolas Romeris University MRUSA is a non-governmental, non-profit, independent volunteer organization. It‘s made up of six committees: Public Relations, Academic Affairs, Culture, Human Resources, Marketing and International Relations. MRUSA supports students and defends their interests. It is concerned with everything that is tied to academic affairs, participation in various MRUSA-organized projects, events and leisure activities at Mykolas Romeris University and beyond the university. The organization also seeks to strengthen and foster national culture, human values and traditions and encourage students to engage in interesting and useful activities. MRUSA takes part in organizing the study process, organizing study programmes and taking care of students‘ cultural life and leisure activities. Room: II-316a (370 5) 271 4560 mrusa@mrusa.lt

Other Student Organizations in MRU: • • • •

Debate Society ELSA - The European Law Student’s Association Student Scientific Society International Students Association Public Administration Student’s Club (VASK)

More information:

http://www.mrusa.lt/

INTERNATIONALIZATION IN MRU There are many outcomes of internationalization in MRU, for example Asian Centre, Vilnius King Sejong Institute and Centre of Francophone Countries’ Studies.

Asian Centre at MRU Asian Centre at MRU was established in April, 2013 and it focuses on cooperation with Japan, South Korea, China and India. Asian Centre at MRU offers Korean, Chinese and Japanese language courses free of charge. Vilnius King Sejong Institute (KSI) at Mykolas Romeris University Vilnius King Sejong Institute (KSI) at Mykolas Romeris University promotes cultural understanding Lithuania - S. Korea through Korean language, culture, economics and politics courses. KSI teaches Korean language and culture to foreigners who want to learn Korean as a second language or a foreign language. There are approximately 120 King Sejong Institutes worldwide.

Centre of Francophone Countries’ Studies Centre of Francophone Countries’ Studies introduces lecturers and students to France and other francophone countries’ educational achievements in organizing lectures, conferences and training modules. It stimulates the co-operation between Lithuania’s and other francophone countries’ studies educational and cultural institutions. It also creates the intellectual and infrastructural basis to develop projects and programs for francophone countries, organizes exchanges between Mykolas Romeris University’s and other francophone countries’ lecturers and scientists, and spreads the francophone idea in the university and national space. It also organizes French language courses free of charge.

Naujoji Akmenė

Mažeikiai Skuodas

Žagarė

Akmenė

Joniškis Biržai

Venta

Seda

Linkuva

Salantai

Palanga Kretinga

Pakruojis

Gargždai

Rokiškis Obeliai

Šiauliai

Plungė

Šeduva

Varniai

Rietavas

Kupiškis

Radviliškis

Užventis Klaipėda

Pasvalys

Kuršėnai

Telšiai

Dusetos

Panevėžys

Zarasai

Kelmė Tytuvėnai

Visaginas

Priekulė Anykščiai

Ramygala

Šilalė

Dūkštas

Utena Kavarskas

Skaudvilė

Raseiniai Ignalina

Šilutė Neringa

Kėdainiai

Ariogala

Tauragė

Ukmergė

Molėtai Švenčionėliai Švenčionys

Pagėgiai Panemunė

Jonava Vilkija

Jurbarkas

Širvintos Pabradė

Šakiai Ežerėlis

Kaunas Kaišiadorys Garliava

Kudirkos Naumiestis

Žiežmariai

Kazlų Rūda

Nemenčinė

Elektrėnai

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USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT LITHUANIA EU border country on a shore of the Baltic Sea Neighbouring with Latvia, Belarus, Poland and Russia Capital: Vilnius Geographical size: 65 286 km2 Population: 2 847 904 (2017) Official language: Lithuanian (the oldest living Indo-European language) Geographical centre of Europe 26 km north of Vilnius (1989) Climate: Ranges between maritime and continental, relatively mild. In Vilnius the average temperatures are −6 °C 21 °F) in January and 17 °C (63 °F) in July.

Vilnius:

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Population: 536 692 inhabitants (2018)

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On 25th of January 1323, the name of Vilnius was first mentioned in written sources

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The old town has been on the UNESCO’s world cultural heritage list from 1994

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Vilnius offers varying and rich cultural life

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Vilnius was the European Capital of Culture in 2009

Lithuanian Cuisine

Cepelinai or DidĹžkukuliai (Zeppelins) are large dumplings made of a mixture of raw and cooked potato dough that are typically stuffed with meat, mushrooms or dried curd.

Kepta Duona (Fried Bread) is Lithuanian dark rye bread that been fried in oil, seasoned with garlic and salt, and served with cheese sauce.

Kibinai are traditional pastries. A flaky, soft crust surrounds meat, vegetables, cheese curd or berry jams.

Šaltibarščiai (Cold Borscht) is beetroot and kefir soup, which is accompanied by hardboiled eggs and boiled potatoes. This soup has a rich pink colour. If you want to taste more traditional dishes, you can go for example to the restaurant Forto Dvaras in the city centre of Vilnius. Tipping: about 10-15 percent (not in canteen and fast food chains) Love it or hate it – the cold beet soup is one of the unofficial symbols of Lithuania. When you come back home and tell about this strange cold pink soup to your friends, they might think you’re crazy. The best way to prove them wrong is to let them taste this food of Gods’! You’ll need: • a jar of marinated beets or 3 big beets, boiled and peeled; • 2 medium cucumbers; • 2 peeled hard-cooked eggs; • 2 green onions, trimmed and sliced; • 1 liter of kefir (sour cream or buttermilk can be used instead); • fresh chopped dill; • salt and pepper to taste; • 6 big potatoes. You’ll have to: 1. Boil Lithuanian national vegetables (potatoes) without skin, and eggs in separate pots; 2. While they’re boiling, put chopped beets, cucumbers, green onions, and dill into a bowl; 3. Pour milk and kefir (or a substitute) and mix everything; 4. Taste your masterpiece. You probably want to pour some sugar into it, because kefir is rather sour. Also some salt, because Lithuanians are all about that balance; 5. Make this pink beauty better by cutting the cool hard-boiled eggs and putting them in the bowl; 6. Serve the most epic soup to your friends with some boiled potatoes as the side dish.

Public Holidays in Lithuania in 2020 1 Jan

- New Year’s Day

16 Feb - Independence Day 11 Mar - Independence Restoration Day 12 Apr - Easter Sunday 13 Apr - Easter Monday

1 May - Labour Day 5 May - Mother’s Day 2 Jun

- Father’s Day

24 Jun - St John’s Day

15 Aug - Assumption Day

6 Jul

1 Nov - All Saints’ Day

- Statehood Day (King Mindaugas’ Day)

24 Dec - Christmas Eve 25 Dec - Christmas Day 26 Dec - 2nd Day of Christmas

Do’s & Don’ts in Lithuania These are one of the most important things in order to make your stay in Lithuania comfortable. As you are a guest, you must know how to behave. So, we are providing you with some recommendations to make sure that nothing wrong happens during your stay, either for your safety or the peacefulness of others. Smoking is forbidden in some cases: • Inside • • • •

At a bus stop In Vincas Kudirka Square (Gedimino pr.) Next to every education building Where you see this sign:

Drugs: all of them are prohibited in Lithuania Alcohol: • Drinking alcohol in public places (streets, parks, buses, universities, dormitories, corridors, stairwells, etc.) is not allowed • Being drunk is not allowed in public places (in the city center, parks, benches, etc.) In the street: • Don’t walk alone in the dark night 38

• • • • • •

Take a taxi after a party Do not sit into a stranger’s car Be careful with your belongings Train station and bus station areas are not recommended in the dark Do not speak with strangers next to the supermarkets Wear safety reflectors during the night to be seen

In the university: • Do not drink or be drunk • Do not smoke (near the entrance also! Please cross the street to smoke) • Leave the university at 21:30 (except if you want to study in the library) • Respect others and yourself

Useful Phrases and Words in Lithuanian Hello Good morning Good afternoon

Greeting Labas Labas rytas Laba diena

Good evening

Labas vakaras

Good night Goodbye See you Have a nice day

Labanakt/ labos nakties Viso gero Iki Geros dienos

Numbers 1 Vienas 2 Du 3 Trys 4 Keturi 5 Penki 6 Šeši 7 Septyni 8 Aštuoni 9 Devyni 10 Dešimt

Basic Phrases & Words Yes Taip No Ne Thank you Ačiū Please Prašau You are welcome Prašom Sorry Atsiprašau What's your name? Kuo tu vardu? My name is ... Mano vardas... Where are you from? Iš kur tu esi? I‘m from...

Aš iš...

How are you? I’m fine Nice to meet you

Kaip sekasi? Viskas gerai Malonu susipažinti

I don't understand

Aš nesuprantu

Where's the toilet? I’m a vegetarian How much is it? One beer! Cheers!/Bless you!

Kur yra tualetas? Aš esu vegetaras Kiek tai kainuoja? Vieną alaus! Į sveikatą!

Transportation Public transportation The public transport system in Vilnius is developed fairly well and can get you just about anywhere in town. Most of the buses start running at around 5:00 in the morning. Tickets: A single ticket costs 1 Euro (with ISIC card 0.5 Euro) and you can buy it from the driver. Paper tickets need to be stamped when getting on the bus, by putting them into a tiny red machine near the driver and pulling the rear part towards you to punch the ticket, or a little bigger yellow machine. An e-ticket is also available (Electronic ticket, “Vilniečio kortelė“). Firstly, it is necessary to buy a card (1.50 Euro). The card can be used both for single and monthly public transport tickets. E-ticket must be credited with an appropriate amount of money and/or the selected public transport tickets. With a valid ticket in the card, properly activated on board the public vehicle, if necessary, it is possible to change the public transport for free and for unlimited number of journeys. Note that you can also use your ISIC Card (purchased in Vilnius) as a bus card! Read more about that in the section of Student Cards! A 30-minutes ticket costs 0.65 Euro (with ISIC card 0.33 Euro) and a 60-minutes ticket costs 0.90 Euro (with ISIC card 0.45 Euro). A monthly ticket costs 29.00 Euro (with ISIC card 5.80 Euro). Available short visit tickets are one-, three- or ten-days. Tickets are available at the kiosks “Lietuvos spauda”, “Narvesen”, post offices, PayPost offices and shopping centres “Maxima”. Night Buses: You can use night buses‘ service on weekends (every night from Fridays to Saturdays, nights from Saturday to Sundays and the night before national holidays). All buses go from 11.30 pm until 3 am, every 45-50 minutes, depending on the bus direction. Please note that you are not able to use your e-ticket (Vilniečio kortelė / ISIC Card) on night buses. You must enter the bus through the front doors and buy a one-way ticket from the driver. 40

Most frequent local destinations: Destination Bus Take No. 10 in the direction Markučiai and get off in front of the Cathedral Square City centre (bus stop Arkikatedra) Railway/bus station

Take No. 2G, 53 and 34 in the direction of Stotis and get off at the final bus stop

Airport

Take No. 10 in the direction Markučiai to bus stop Žaliasis tiltas and change to No. 3G to Oro Uostas (Aiport)

Website of public transportation Vilnius: www.vilniustransport.lt/en/ Apps: TRAFI & Google Maps. They will both show you which buses to take and when. TRAFI also shows additional information. Taxify

Taxi

It is better to call a taxi company by phone, because to hail a cab on the street in Vilnius can cost you much more. The charge is from 1 Euro per kilometre in the city. It is possible that you are charged a taxi fare (1 Euro) for getting on a taxi. Taxis in Vilnius can be identified by special taxi lights on top of the vehicle and yellow license plates. Taxis must be equipped with a meter, and the price per kilometre must be clearly displayed. JAZZEXPRESS: 1428 OPEN TAXI: 1414 Short telephone numbers to call a taxi (do not dial the code) available only for Lithuanian SIM cards. APPS: e-taxi, Bolt These apps will give you an easier way to get a taxi in a few minutes without making a phone call (sometimes taxi drivers don‘t speak English). Remember that you might need an internet on your phone while using these apps. Useful webpage:

http://www.etaksi.lt/en/book-taxi-online

UBER can also be used in Vilnius. 41

Cycling

Velo-City The local family organization Velo-City rents bicycles, organizes city tours by bicycle, provides maps and information about cycling in the city, sells used bicycles, runs a self-repair workshop and bicycle repair shop and organizes free cycling events. Pylimo str. 31 +370 67412123 info@velovilnius.lt From November to April: Open by agreement More information: velovilnius.lt CycloCity Vilnius Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, CycloCity Vilnius is a self-service bike rental System. Please note - “Cyclocity Vilnius” service is available during the summer season only! A seasonal subscription and seasonal youth subscription is valid for 1 calendar year from the date of purchase. Cyclists will be able to use the system by connecting their Vilniečio card or with a CycloCity card. The rental fees will be paid out of this initial value. All stations are equipped for CycloCity Vilnius Long Term Hire Card, Vilnius public transport card and 3 Day Ticket users. Once purchased, you can use the 3 Day Ticket similar to the Cyclocity Vilnius or Vilnius public transport Card to rent or return a bike from any station in the network. Season is from the start of the 16th week until the end of the 42nd week inclusively. In case of unfavourable weather conditions, the start of the season may be postponed to a later date. In case of favourable weather conditions, the end of the season may be postponed to a later date. More information:

en.cyclocity.lt

Driving

Traffic jams during the peak hours (before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.) are a part of everyday life. Driving in the city centre and the Old Town requires patience at any time of the day. It is obligatory to switch on “dipped headlights” when you drive. Never leave any valuables in your car: briefcases, phones, cameras, laptops, car radios, even when leaving your car for a short time.

Speed Limits: Towns County Roads Highways Highways Vilnius – Kaunas Highway

– – – – –

50 km/h (with exceptions) 90 km/h 110 km/h (Oct 1–Apr 1) 130 km/h (Apr 1–Oct 1) 100 km/h

Travelling Bus

Direct bus routes connect Vilnius whit the largest European cities, and with transfers, you can reach virtually any European destination. The internal bus network is also well developed. You can conveniently reach major Lithuanian cities and region centres. Popular bus companies: • LUX Express (https://luxexpress.eu/en ) • Ecolines (https://ecolines.net/international/en ) • Eurolines (www.eurolines.lt/en )

Bus station: Sodų str. 22, LT-02100 Vilnius The bus station in Vilnius is near the railway station, on the other side of the square.

Near the bus station, there are always people offering to take you cheaper and faster to Kaunas, Klaipeda and other cities. Don’t be tempted by their offers. The trip will cost you the same or even more, and these people will profit from the unpaid taxes. Always go up for a shuttle bus and buy a ticket at the bus station.

Train

Most international trains connect Vilnius with the cities of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. This is due to the railway system developed in the course of history and the Russian-standard track width (which is several centimetres wider than the European). Even though there is a special train connecting Vilnius and Warsaw, most passengers to Poland and other European countries travel by bus or by air.

Airplane

Railway Station: GeleĹžinkelio str. 16, LT-02100 Vilnius www.litrail.lt

Regular flights connect Vilnius with many European capitals and larger cities. Flights across the Atlantic and to other faraway countries are not a problem either. Airlines and travel agencies can offer various routes. You can fly through Helsinki, Warsaw, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, London and other cities. Airport: RodĹŤnios kelias 10A, LT-02189 Vilnius www.vilnius-airport.lt/en Vilnius International Airport is situated not far from the city centre.

Where have you been?

Visa Students who are citizens of any country in the EU, EEA, EFTA do not need a visa to enter the Republic of Lithuania. The students who are citizens of any European Union country and stay in Lithuania longer than for 3 months, will have to apply for the Statement of the European Union Member States citizen for their right to live in the Republic of Lithuania. The procedure will be explained after the arrival. For all students from non-European Union countries who will study and live in Lithuania, a National Visa (D-type) is compulsory. Students from countries whose citizens do not require visas for entrance to the Republic of Lithuania can enter the Lithuanian territory, but after the arrival these students will have to apply for National Visa (D-type) at the Migration Department in Vilnius. The procedure will be explained after the arrival. List of countries whose citizens do not require visas for entrance to the Republic of Lithuania be can found on the official website of the migration department: www.migracija.lt/index.php?-1497548128 Students from countries whose citizens require visas for entrance to the Republic of Lithuania must apply for National Visa (D-type) beforehand. National Visas are issued at the 46

diplomatic missions or consular offices of the Republic of Lithuania abroad. In order to get a National Visa (D-type), the Student must submit: • A completed application form for National Visa • Mediation letter number • Valid travel document (passport), its validity must be no less than 1 year longer after the last day of stay in Lithuania • One photo of 35x45 mm, corresponding to the age of the student • Receipt of the paid consular fee • A valid document certifying his/her health insurance coverage 30 000 Eur • A document certifying his/her sufficient subsistence means Additional documents can be requested. In order to get a mediation letter number from MRU you have to send a copy of your passport by fax or by e-mail, except if a copy of the passport has already been uploaded in the online application form. Students with D-type visas can reside in Lithuania for up to 12 months. If the period of stay in Lithuania is longer, then a temporary residence permit is needed.

Making Calls During the introductory week you will receive a mobile SIMcard from EĹžys (Telia). However, there are also other operators in Lithuania like BitÄ&#x2014; GSM and Tele2. Calling abroad from Lithuania To make an international call, first dial 00, then dial a country (and city) code and then a telephone number.

Calling Lithuania from abroad International telephone code of Lithuania: + 370

Money From 1st of January 2015, Lithuania became one of the members of the Euro area, so the currency is Euro. Currency Exchange You can exchange foreign currency for Euros at any bank or exchange office, or withdraw cash from your credit card from cash machines (ATM). Usually you can find them inside and outside of the bank offices, in major shopping centres or just in the streets. Currency exchange office (Top Exchange) that is open 24 hours is located at the railway station Vilnius. In Lithuania most of the internationally recognized bank and credit cards (VISA, VISA ELECTRON, MASTERCARD, MAESTRO, EUROCARD, ELITOCARD and sometimes AMERICAN EXPRESS) are accepted and widely used in all shops and shopping centres where such method of payment is indicated at the entrance.

Banks The 5 biggest banks in Lithuania:

International EU students of Mykolas Romeris University can open accounts and ask for bank cards in Lithuanian banks on equal basis as local Lithuanian students (without fees or with greater discounts). For non-EU citizens banks apply charges which vary depending on bank. If you wish to open an account, just apply to any bank branch. Ask a representative from the university or the mentor for advice.

Electricity Lithuanian domestic electricity flows out the walls at 220 V, AC 50 Hz, and nearly all sockets are of the round two-pin European variety. Some thinner Russian sockets still exist, although if you push hard enough you should get the plug in.

Supermarkets Normally supermarkets are open all week and usually from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. Some supermarkets work till midnight. Alcohol is sold till 8 p.m. on Mondays-Saturdays and till 3pm on Sundays.

PREKYBOS SISTEMA

XXL XL L

Safety The chances of getting robbed and beaten senseless in the street are tiny. However, caution never did anybody any harm. Walk tall, look like you know what you’re doing, and you won’t be troubled. Theft is the major problem. Mobile phones are apt to disappear if left even vaguely unattended in bars and other public places. Keep all pocket-sized valuables out of reach at all times. European emergency number:

112

Healthcare Ambulance number: 003 (Call only in case of emergency!) All international students must have a valid health insurance during their stay in Lithuania. Students who are citizens of any European Union country must have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). All students from non-European Union countries can obtain their health insurance at their home countries (please, check if the insurance is valid in Lithuanian territory) or they can obtain one in Lithuania. A EHIC holder can receive medical care provided by general practitioners or specialists, hospital treatment and subsidized medicines prescribed for out-patient care. The visits to general practitioners are free of charge. If the general practitioner feels it is necessary, then he will refer a patient to a specialist and this consultation will then be provided by the specialist free of charge. The costs of treatment provided by a private doctor who does not have an agreement with the Territorial Health Insurance Fund are not covered by the EHIC. EHIC holders are eligible to be reimbursed for the costs of subsidized medicines prescribed for treatment purposes. Subsidized medicines can only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription. A person must show his EHIC and proof of identity in the pharmacy. If you need to be reimbursed, present the paid bills, documents proving the payment and doctor’s explanation form to your relevant institution when you return home. Remember: only the costs of necessary medical care are reimbursed. 49

Polyclinics

Foreigners who have come for a short stay from the EU countries should submit their personal identification document and the EHIC while addressing the public healthcare institution regarding the necessary aid. Foreigners, who have come for a short stay from Non-EU countries, should submit the personal identification document and the agreement, concluded with the Insurance Company, while addressing the public healthcare institution regarding the necessary help. Foreigners who work in Lithuania should submit their personal identification number and social insurance certificate.

Vilniaus Centro poliklinika Pylimo str. 3, Vilnius +370 5 244 2244 or +370 5 251 4058 Šeškinės poliklinika Šeškinės str. 24, Vilnius. +370 5 246 8165 or +370 5 246 8156 Vilniaus rajono centrinė poliklinika Laisvės pr. 79 Vilnius +370 5 247 0027

Hospital

In case of the eye, nose, ear and throat diseases and injuries, in case of traumas, etc. the medical aid for adults is rendered at the public institution: Vilnius First Medical Aid University Hospital Šiltnamių str. 29, Vilnius; take bus No. 55 direction Lazdynai. Remember: you can access the hospital service only when Polyclinics are not working anymore (usually after 20:00) or in case of trauma, unbearable pain or emergency. 50

STUDENT LIFE Accommodation Dormitory – Student House Mykolas Romeris University offers accommodation located 5 minutes’ walk from the university. The rooms offered are shared, either by two or three students. Monthly rent is 85 - 200 Euro (rental fee is subject to change). Electricity and water is included in this price. The booking fee is 100 Euro, which is returned to the student when moving out from the dormitory. International students are required to pay for the accommodation for the entire semester at the beginning of their stay. You will find all necessary information about the payment in Moodle. You can pay by e-Banking, directly at banks and FoxBox machines. In each floor there are two kitchens, two bathrooms, meeting room (rooms ending with x19) and working room (rooms ending with xx9). Toilet is mostly shared by two rooms. There is also a laundry room, which can be used with extra charge, as well as free Wi-Fi and cable internet. You can get new blankets every two weeks (Room 110). Students need to clean their rooms and lavatories by themselves. Students’ House Rules Residents of the Students’ House agree on the responsibility for the care and condition of the room they occupy. The residents themselves clean up their rooms and lavatories. The common areas are cleaned up by the Students’ House staff. The residents of the Students’ House are allowed to return to the House until 24.00, on Sunday – Wednesday; until 2.00 Thursday, until 3.00 Friday – Saturday. If later, only with the permission of the administrator or housekeeper. The visit time for guests is from 7.00 to 22.00. They are registered on the guest book at the reception desk, therefore the guests are asked to deliver a personal identification document. The guests shall leave the House at 22.30. The host is responsible for the behaviour of the guests. In case of accident or at the time of emergency repair, the workers of upkeep are allowed to enter a room only with the presence of the Administrator of the House or the Housekeeper if the residents are absent. The condition of the room as well 51

as the furniture are inspected each time before the beginning and end of the study year and before moving from it. Students are notified about the inventory and inspection beforehand. The results of the inspection shall be indicated in the agreement. The damage done afterwards shall be accounted for by the resident of the Room. On the agreement with the Administrator, the residents themselves can eliminate the damage done, or can cover all the expenses for the repairs. If damage is done in the common areas of the Students’ House and cannot be assigned with certainty to any specific individual, the responsibility is assigned to the floor warden. Malicious damage deprives a person of the right to reside at the Students’ House. The residents of the Students’ House are not allowed to: • Change places in the room without a permission of the Administrator. The administrator reserves the right to move a student to another room, if needed. • Stick notices, posters, hang pictures on the room walls or bring additional pieces of furniture to the room. • Spoil or dismantle the inventory of the room and other safety equipment in the room. • Take, sell or use alcoholic beverages, narcotics at the premises of the Students’ House. • Smoke outside the designated areas. • Throw different items, stubs or rubbish through the windows. • Disturb resting and studying, listen to loud music, make excessively noisy parties. • Curfew time is from 23.00 to 6.00. If you have any questions about the dormitory, you can find the dormitory manager in room 109. Didlaukio str. 57, LT-08302 Vilnius Student House Manager: n.nijole@mruni.eu Mrs. Nijolė Jansonienė,

Apartments for rent If you prefer to rent an apartment, here are some websites of agencies: Aruodas: http://en.aruodas.lt/ Domo Plius: http://en.domo.plius.lt/ Vilnius Apartments: http://vilniuscityapartments.com/ More information: www.mruni.eu/en/prospective_students/accommodation/

Where to eat and do groceries near the dormitory? • •

Canteen, KuroNeko and Coffee Hill in MRU Fabai, Ateities str. 21: 5 minutes by foot between MRU bus stop and Liudo Giros bus stop. There are 2 parts: • Cafeteria with pretty cheap meals (between 3,50€ and 5€) • Grill with meal (between 5 € and 20 €) Working hours: I-IV: 11AM-11PM; V:11AM-12AM; VI: 12PM-12AM; VII: 12PM-11PM.

• •

Vilnius Kolegija canteen (open to public) Čili Pica (in Mandarinas Mall and next to Rimi Jeruzalė)

•

Mandarinas Mall (Mykolo Romerio Universitetas stop: Bus 2G “Stotis” @ Kaimelio stop; Bus 10 “Fabijoniškes” and 55 “Lazdynai” @ Antano Jonyno stop; Bus 48 “Šeškinė” @ sporto gimnazija stop) Rimi Jeruzalė (Mykolo Romerio Universitetas stop: Bus 2G “Santariškes” @ Kalvarijos stop) IKI Jeruzalė (Mykolo Romerio Universitetas stop: Bus 2G “Santariškes” @ Kalvarijos stop) IKI Palink (Pamiškė: Bus 53 “Stotis”, 40 and 56 “Centras” @ Jovaro stop) Maxima Baltupiai (Mykolo Romerio Universitetas stop: Bus 10 “Markučiai” @ Baltupiai stop) Lidl (Mykolo Romerio Universitetas stop: Bus 55 “Santariškes”, 57 “Bajorai” and 75 “Santariškes” @ Rugių stop; Bus 2G “Santariškes” @ Kalvarijos stop)

• • • • •

Student Cards ISIC card The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is an internationally accepted card which will prove your student status wherever you go and will provide you with benefits and services. With ISIC card you will have great discounts for public transportation, museums and for bars and clubs. The price of the ISIC card is 9 Euro. You can combine ISIC with bus card for 10 Euro. You will have to pay 5.80 Euro per month. You can reload it in kiosks like Narvesen or Lietuvos Spauda. Remember, that after reloading the bus card you have to activate it in the bus (each month) by tapping the bus card to the yellow machine in the bus. Where to make ISIC card? You can order your card online or by visiting the nearest ISIC/ITIC issuing office. In order to get the ISIC card you have to bring a copy of your ID card or passport, a small picture and a certificate from MRU, which proves your student status. It will be produced within a few minutes. It is possible to make a photo for ISIC on the spot. Vilnius:

J. Basanavičiaus str. 30

More about the benefits: www.isic.lt/en/benefits/ 54

Klaipėdos str. 7 B - 12

Kalvarijų str. 14

Gedimino av. 1

ESNcard ESNcard is valid for one year in whole Europe. With this card you get discounts for car rent, ESN trips, ESN events, hostels, dentists, free entrance in partners’ clubs, discounts for Ryanair, Emirates, Air France KLM and more flights. You can get this card from the ESN MRU Vilnius section. More about the benefits: https://esncard.org/discover Lithuanian Student Identity Card card (LSP) LSIC is the official Lithuanian student identity card. You can use public transport cheaper and there are various discounts for students all over the country. New LSIC costs from 4.5 to 16 Euro, depending on your study cycle. More about the benefits: https://lsp.lt/en/discounts

Monthly Living Expenses Housing: Food: Transport: Leisure: Other:

~100 Euro (at the MRU dormitory) & ~250 Euro (in private sector) 150 – 200 Euro 6 Euro (student monthly public transportation ticket) 40 Euro (other types of transportation) 60 – 170 Euro 50 – 100 Euro

Approximate monthly budget: 400 – 450 Euro and more (depending on personal habits) 55

Entertainment Clubs

Usually, entrance to the majority of clubs before midnight is free. Before going to the club check the event and its description. Some clubs have strict face control and age limit.

Cinema For newest and popular movies:

Non-commercial cinemas:

Akropolis, Vingis CINEMABOTIQUE

All movies (except animation) in Lithuania are screened in their original language with Lithuanian subtitles. Every month there is a special â&#x20AC;&#x153;movie dayâ&#x20AC;? when you can get movie tickets with 50% discount.

Shopping Centres

Cultural events in Vilnius Lithuanian Independence Day: 16th of February On 16th of February 1918, the Council of Lithuania signed the Act of Independence of Lithuania, which proclaimed the termination of all state ties and declared Lithuania an independent state. Solemn commemorations, concerts, orchestra parades and other events take place in the capital and all over the country. Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday): February (46 days before Easter) A calendar holiday during which Shrove Tuesday mummers flood the Old Town to “drive out winter”, and pancakes are cooked. If you eat many pancakes on Shrove Tuesday, your year will be a success. At the end of the festivities, Morė (a symbol of winter disasters), is burned on a bonfire and people await the arrival of spring. Kaziukas Fair: First weekend of March The fair, which originated from the day of St. Casimir, the guardian of Lithuania, has been in existence for over 400 years. This is the largest occasion for traditional craftsmen to present their work to visitors. It is also a celebration which embraces all areas of the Old Town. The Independence Restoration Day: 11th of March The Act of Re-establishment of the State of Lithuania was signed on the 11th of March 1990. On this day, the victims of fights for Lithuanian independence are honoured, the ceremony of hoisting the state flag takes place in the Nepriklausomybės Square, and brass band parades, performances by various groups, and concerts are organised. Street Music Day: May Street Musician Day is the event which unites all who speak the world’s most universal language – the language of music. In response to the invitation from musician and actor Andrius Mamontovas, professional and amateur musicians flood into the streets, yards, parks and squares of Vilnius. Armed with a variety of musical instruments, they play rock, classics, jazz, avant-garde and folklore and beat African rhythms. On this day all Lithuanian cities and towns engage into the fest of free creation and socialising between musicians and the public.

Sostinės Dienos (Capital Days): From the end of August to the beginning of September Numerous highly ingenious and even extreme performances are held in various outdoor venues in the capital during the Days of the Capital. Gedimino Avenue turns into a huge art workshop and a gallery of different national cuisines. Autumn Equinox: The end of September This event is devoted to the founder of Vilnius, Duke Gediminas. lt includes a carnival and concerts perfomed by Lithuanian regional and ethnic minorities. An impressive mystery performance of fire sculptures crowns the finale of the festivities. Before the performance, large straw sculptures created by professional artists are exhibited outdoors around the city. More cultural events in Vilnius: http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt/en/media/cultural-events

Music festivals in Lithuania • • • • •

ROKO naktys (April) Galapagai Festival (July) Bliuzo Naktys (July) Music Festival Grenades Live (August) Loftas Festival (September)

Museums & Galleries In Vilnius there are about 60 different types of museums: art, nature, architecture, history, science, theatre, music, cinema, literature and memorial museums. The museums in the Vilnius television tower and Gediminas’ Castle also offer impressive views of the city. No one can remain indifferent to the evidence of Soviet repression in Lithuania’s history on display at the Genocide Victims’ Museum. Those who are interested in modern art should visit the unique open air sculpture display at Europos parkas (‘Europe Park’). 58

Gediminasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tower of the Upper Castle/ Vilnius Castle Museum:

National Museum of Lithuania â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The New Arsenal & Old Arsenal:

The Vilnius Castle Museum exhibit reconstruction models of Vilnius castles of the second part of the 14th and the beginning of the 17th centuries, armament, iconographic material of old Vilnius. For a splendid view, you enjoy from the observation deck on the top of the tower.

The National Museum of Lithuania is the largest depository of Lithuanian historical cultural heritage in the country. The New Arsenal represents the history of Lithuania, present traditional Lithuanian culture, and customs. The Old Arsenal contains archaeological findings dating back to the appearance of the first inhabitants in the territory of Lithuania 11,000 years BC until establishment of the State in the 13th century. It is open to anybody who wishes to gain deeper knowledge and understanding of Lithuanian archaeology, history and ethnic culture; or those who simply want to admire the artefacts of our Lithuanian ancestors.

Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania: The reconstructed Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania was the former political, diplomatic, cultural centre of the State. Nowadays the Gothic, Renaissance and Early Baroque halls of this multifunctional Museum are ideally applicable to organize a different size and content public events, official visits, conferences, meetings, seminars, concerts, performances, receptions and other. Part of the reconstructed Palace of the Grand Dukes in Vilnius Lower Castle officially transferred to the Museum. There are two exhibition routes, which are related to the historical functions of this residence.

Vilnius Picture Gallery: The Gallery is located in a beautiful and spacious estate of the noblemen Chodkiewicz noted for impressive interiors of late classicism. The permanent exposition of this Gallery offers a visitor the opportunity to see the development of Lithuanian art from the 16th to the beginning of the 20th century. Different exhibitions, evenings of culture, concerts of classical music are organised at the Gallery. More museums you can find on the website www.vilnius-tourism.lt/en/what-to-see/museums 59

• • • • • • • •

Concert halls

Lithuanian National Philharmonic Congress Concert Hall Vilnius Teacher’s House St. Catherines Church Concert Hall PIANO.LT Siemens Arena Ūkio banko teatro arena (Ūkio Bank Theatre Arena)

Cultural and Information Centres

• • • • • • • • •

British Council French Institute Goethe Institute Italian Cultural Institute Japanese Information & Cultural Centre Nordic Council of Ministers Office Polish Cultural Institute Russian Cultural Centre The American Centre

For more information, visit the website https://www.inyourpocket.com/vilnius/ event-venues/culturalcentres 60

Theatres

Lithuanian National Drama Theatre Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre State Small Theatre of Vilnius Lithuanian Russian Drama Theatre Youth Theatre Oskaras Koršunovas Theatre Domino Theatre

Places to visit in Lithuania L AT V I A

During your stay in Lithuania, you might want to travel around Lithuania and see other parts than Vilnius too. Lithuania is rather small country, so everything is quite easily reachable. There are trains and buses operating.

Mažeikiai Šiauliai

Būtingė Klaipėda

Panevėžys Utena

Baltic Sea

Kėdainiai Ne

Nemunas

RUSSIA (Kaliningrad Oblast)

Trains: www.traukiniobilietas.lt/portal/en

Jonava

Kaunas

VILNIUS

Marijampolė Juozapinės Kalnas

Alytus

POLAND B

A EL

Buses: www.autobusubilietai.lt/index.php?cl=start&lang=0

an yom

Map of Lithuania 61

Trakai: Trakai is the historical capital of ancient Lithuania, located only 28 kilometres west from Vilnius. Trakai is a charming small city surrounded by five  large lakes. Trakai’s number one attraction is the Trakai Island Castle. A notable feature of Trakai is that the town was built and preserved by people of different nationalities. Historically, communities of Karaimes, Tatars, Lithuanians, Russians, Jews and Poles lived here. Druskininkai: Druskininkai is the largest and the most famous spa town in Lithuania. Druskininkai is located in the Southern Lithuania by the Nemunas river, not far from the Belarus’ boarder. Druskininkai is few kilometres west from Grūto parkas, so if visiting Druskininkai it might be a good idea to visit Grūto parkas also. Grūtas Park: Grūtas Park (in Lithuanian Grūto parkas), unofficially known as Stalin’s World, is a sculpture garden of Soviet-era statues and an exposition of other Soviet ideological relics from the times of the Lithuanian SSR. The park is located near Druskininkai, about 130 kilometres southwest of Vilnius. Opening hours: The park is open daily year around. In winter: 9:00–17:00 , in the season 9:00–22:00. Grūtas, 66441 Druskininkai

Neringa: Neringa is municipality in westernmost Lithuania comprising several villages in the Curonian Spit. Curonian Spit is a natural wonder created by the sea, wind and man. To get to Neringa you should go to Klaipėda and take a ferry from Klaipeda to Neringa. Klaipėda: Klaipėda is the third largest city of Lithuania, and it is situated in the Western part of Lithuania. It is a port tow with favourable geographical position on the coast of the Baltic Sea and Curonian Lagoon, within close distance to other Baltic Sea ports: Kaliningrad (Russia) and Riga (Latvia). Klaipėda distinguishes from other cities with its old and rich history as well as its architecture characteristic of Western European cities.

Palanga: This small city is quiet in winter, but in summer it transforms into Lithuania’s premier seaside resort. It features a long, sandy beach backed by pine-covered dunes, and there is also a large botanical park with a rose garden. On the first Saturday of June Palanga hosts a grand opening of the summer season, and on the last Saturday of August the closing of the season, which are both celebrated with a massive street carnival, market, song festival and pop concert. Palanga is 30 km north of Klaipėda and 18 km south of the Latvian border. Kretinga, the nearest train station, is served by daily trains from Klaipėda and Vilnius. You can also reach Palanga by bus. Motorists have to pay a small entrance fee to drive into Palanga.

Ignalina: Ignalina is famous of its lake area – here you can rent a rowing boat, canoe etc. It is very popular destination in the summer time. Ignalina is located about 100 km northeast of Vilnius, a train from Vilnius to Ignalina takes less than two hours.

Šiauliai: Šiauliai is approximately 220 km northwest of Vilnius. It is the fourth largest city in Lithuania. The centre of the city has a distinctive towny feeling, with interesting bars and restaurants, bizarre statues, and odd collection of museums and galleries, all within walking distance from each other.

Hill of Crosses: The Hill of Crosses is 10 km north of Šiauliai. Šiauliai has good rail and bus connections with both Kaunas and Vilnius. The Hill of Crosses is a hill covered with a lot of crosses - large and tiny, expensive and cheap, wooden and metal.

Crossword Puzzle 1

Horizontal 2. What is the name of the only king Lithuania has ever had? 5. Which bus goes directly from MRU to the city centre? (Use letters) 6. What is the name of the ancient capital of Lithuania with a great castle built on an island? 7. Which sport is the most popular in Lithuania? Vertical 1. What is the Lithuanian word for ‘Thank you’? 3. What is celebrated on the 16th of February? 4. Which famous Lithuanian dish is named after the oval shape of a Zeppelin? 8. What is known as Lithuanian gold? 9. How to say ‘Hi’ in Lithuanian?

Embassies in Vilnius Armenia

Azerbaijan

Belarus

Belgium

China

Croatia

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Georgia

Germany

Greece

Vatican City

Hungary

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Kazakhstan

Latvia

Moldova

The Netherlands

Norway

Poland

Romania

Russia

Spain

Sweden

Turkey

Ukraine

United Kingdom

United States

Useful Links www.vilnius-tourism.lt www.likeablelithuania.com www.city-info.net www.likealocalguide.com/vilnius

Information is taken from the following websites:

Foreigners in Vilnius - Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/209733365824002/?fref=ts

www.mruni.eu www.migracija.lt www.urm.lt www.tourism.lt www.inyourpocket.lt www.lonelyplanet.com www.cust.lt http://www.vilnius-tourism.lt http://mru.esnlithuania.org/

Notes

GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS INFORMATION BOOKLET Prepared and edited by Mykolas Romeris University International Office Photos by Vidūnas Gelumbauskas, ESN MRU Vilnius, and exchange students. Layout by Laura Tekorienė Number of copies published 700. Order 12312. Mykolas Romeris University Prepared by JSC “Baltic Printing House” Website: www.balticprinting.com Printed by JSC „BMK LEIDYKLA“. Website: www.bmkleidykla.lt With the support of the Erasmus+ Programme from the European Commission. www.mruni.eu 72