This year, as a sixth-year medical student at Beirut Arab University, I had the privilege of participating in a traineeship program offered by my university, facilitated through Erasmus+. This opportunity allowed me to undertake an enriching 8-week elective at the ENT department of the hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU).
During my time at the hospital, I was warmly welcomed and received tremendous support from the staff. I had the chance to observe a diverse range of surgeries, assist in some procedures, and attend clinics.
LSMU assisted us in securing accommodation at their dormitories, where my colleague Ghina El Sabbagh and I resided alongside other Erasmus+ students from various countries, fostering a culturally immersive experience.
In terms of transportation, the Traffi app proved indispensable, providing accurate information on bus stations, schedules, and arrivals with just a click, greatly facilitating our mobility around the city.
Exploring Lithuania, a country steeped in history, was an unforgettable experience. Our primary focus was Kaunas, where we visited its prominent landmarks such as Laisves Aleja, renowned for its vibrant array of restaurants and shops, the picturesque Kaunas old town, Nemunas Island, Kaunas Castle, akropolis mall, and several museums.
We were fortunate to witness Kaunas in both winter, adorned with snow, and spring, adorned with lush greenery and stunning tulips throughout the city.
Venturing beyond Kaunas, an organized trip by LSMU took us to Nida, a town characterized by serene landscapes ranging from pine forests to towering sand dunes, offering moments of tranquility by the Baltic Sea. Additionally, we explored Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where the UNESCO-listed old town captivated us with its diverse architectural styles.
Overall, my experience as an Erasmus+ student in Kaunas was incredibly rewarding, filled with invaluable experiences and profound cultural insights.