On October 16, Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) hosted a cozy and colorful event, "Lithuanian Culture Night", designed to introduce exchange students staying at MRU for a semester or a year, as well as first-year degree-seeking international students, to Lithuanian folk culture.
The event, held in the Rotunda Hall, was organized by the International Office, to ensure that the main participants – incoming exchange students and first-year international students – felt welcomed, gained a better understanding of Lithuanian traditions, and establish connections within the MRU community.
Guests from Italy – a delegation of students and faculty from the University of Macerata, participating in the traveling seminar of the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) – were also invited. In addition, selected MRU students planning to participate in exchange programs in the spring semester attended the event, giving them the opportunity to meet the guests, share Lithuanian culture, and gain confidence and inspiration before their upcoming study abroad experiences.
During the evening, students enjoyed a performance of traditional Lithuanian dances presented by the MRU Folk Dance Ensemble "SKALSA", as well as modern arrangements of Lithuanian songs performed by the MRU pop vocal ensemble, led by Artūras Novikas. Participants also took part in a workshop on creating traditional Lithuanian sodas, crafted their own sodai, posed for photos in a photo booth, and tasted traditional Lithuanian dishes.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, participants enjoyed a Lithuanian riddles Kahoot quiz, prepared with the help of MRU students doing traineeship at the International Office. Fun and exciting activities included darts game organized by the MRU Sports and Wellness Center – the most active participants received prizes.
Although the Lithuanian autumn was not particularly welcoming to the international guests, the warm interactions, music, and dances, along with the hosts from the International Office dressed in traditional Lithuanian attire, created a cozy atmosphere full of positive emotions.
"Every such event is a step toward strengthening MRU’s international spirit and community. It is important to us that students not only study here but also take home a piece of Lithuanian culture and warm memories," said the event organizers from the International Office.
