From May 16 to 31, the Faculty of Public Governance and Business at Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) welcomed guests from the United States – Professor Ray Smith and International Education Coordinator Amy Burger from Dalton State College (Georgia), who accompanied a group of students on an academic visit.
The visit was part of an international internship program aimed at broadening students’ understanding of public governance, economics, and organizational practices in Lithuania, while also deepening their intercultural experience.
The main goal of the visit was to strengthen cooperation between MRU and Dalton State College by creating opportunities for students to study in a global academic environment and gain practical experience working in diverse, international teams.
During their stay, Dalton State College students participated in project management lectures alongside MRU students, working in mixed teams. These sessions encouraged knowledge sharing, enhanced communication skills, and allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge in an intercultural setting.
The group also took part in various cultural and professional activities. They visited the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, with the visit organized by MRU MBA alumnus Vytautas Kernagis, and explored the National Library of Lithuania, where they were guided by MRU senior librarian Indrė Karčiauskaitė. These visits provided valuable insights into Lithuania’s political system, educational institutions, and the organization of public services.
During meetings with Microsoft Lithuania representative and MBA student Gytis Česnuitis, and Vinted representative and MBA student Rūta Giedrė, students learned about contemporary management practices and organizational operations.
The cultural part of the program included a guided tour of Vilnius Old Town led by MBA student Gabrielė Mankauskaitė-Juknevičienė, as well as trips to Trakai, Klaipėda, and the Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai, enriching the group’s understanding of Lithuania’s identity, history, and regional diversity.
Professor Ray Smith also delivered lectures to MRU MBA students on the topic of “Leadership and Organizational Management.” The lectures were complemented by a visit to the furniture manufacturing company “Swenheim” in Alytus, where MBA student and company director Darius Grybauskas introduced the group to production processes and real-life management practices.
During the visit, the guests met with MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation Dr. Eglė Malinauskienė, Dean of the Faculty of Public Governance and Business Prof. Dr. Danguolė Jankauskienė, and Head of the International Office Audra Burokienė. The meetings focused on future collaboration opportunities, including student exchanges and joint academic projects.
“Such visits are not only about academic partnership – they are an opportunity to grow as global citizens who appreciate cultural diversity, collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge across continents,” said Dr. Ilona Bartuševičienė, MRU Associate Professor and coordinator of the visit.
