International students at ISM University of Management and Economics share the stereotypes they had heard about the university and student life in Lithuania. Their experiences show that some expectations were partly true, while others changed after studying and living there.

Students discuss Lithuanian culture, academic challenges, student life and career opportunities.

Lithuania’s Love of Basketball

One of the most common stereotypes students heard was that everyone in Lithuania loves basketball. One student describes it almost as a “second religion”. While not everyone is equally interested in the sport, students recognise that basketball has an important place in Lithuanian culture.

Is the Weather Always Extremely Cold?

Some international students expected Lithuania to be much colder than they were used to. One student says that, personally, the weather felt more pleasant than expected.

This shows how personal experience can differ from assumptions made before arriving.

Respect for Lithuanian Culture and Traditions

One student had heard that Lithuanians are very proud of their traditions, language and national identity. After arriving, they felt that this stereotype was largely accurate in a positive way. They noticed strong respect for local traditions, history and culture in everyday life.

Are People Unfriendly?

Some students expected people in Lithuania to be less friendly or more reserved. After spending two years there, one student says this impression completely changed.

They found people to be polite, kind and approachable.

Is Studying at ISM Difficult?

Several students had heard that ISM is a challenging university with demanding academic requirements. Coursework, projects and assignments can require a serious level of commitment.

However, students also describe these challenges positively, as they provide opportunities to develop skills and learn how to overcome different academic and personal situations.

Do Employers Look for ISM Students?

A positive stereotype about ISM is that companies actively look for its students and graduates. One student says that during three years at the university, they saw evidence of this through job applications, friends being recruited and companies attending career fairs.

The student explains that employers sometimes specifically look for ISM students, which was one of the reasons they chose the university.

Are Business School Students Boring?

Another stereotype was that business school students are boring or come from very privileged backgrounds. One student says their experience at ISM was completely different.

They describe the student community as friendly, simple and close-knit, almost like a family.

Academic Challenge and Quality

Some students connect ISM’s demanding academic environment with the quality of the university. They believe that higher expectations can help students develop stronger skills and become more attractive to employers. For them, the difficulty of studying at ISM is closely linked to the university’s reputation and career opportunities.

Stereotypes about ISM University of Management and Economics are both confirmed and challenged by students’ real experiences. Lithuania’s basketball culture, respect for traditions and demanding academic environment may match some expectations, while views about people and student life often become more positive after arrival.

The students’ experiences show that the best way to understand a university and country is often through direct study and everyday life.

How StudyNet Can Help?

StudyNet supports students exploring international universities and study opportunities. Our StudyNet Group can help you compare programmes, understand admission requirements and plan the next steps in your study abroad journey.

Tel: +994 55 918 93 93 ; +994 12 310 00 23

Mail: [email protected]