A Kaunas University of Technology PhD student and ECIU University student ambassador, Judita Švaikauskaitė is always looking for ways to support learners – and embrace new perspectives in the process. We talked to Judita about her ambassador path, the skills she gained along the way, and ambassadors’ role in the ECIU University community.
An environmental engineering PhD student at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). A project manager for the young researchers’ creative space ‘Young Lab’ at KTU’s interdisciplinary prototyping laboratory centre ‘M-Lab’. And for almost a year now, an ECIU University student ambassador. Judita Švaikauskaitė has a busy schedule – with her passion for ECIU University leading the way.
Who are ECIU University student ambassadors?
Student ambassadors are students who participate in local and international projects to promote ECIU University, support other students and represent their interests both within the community and at events across Europe. Currently, there are 55 student ambassadors at 12 member institutions, helping build the university of tomorrow.
Judita had just begun her PhD studies when ECIU University learning opportunities caught her attention. Soon after, the KTU student enrolled in her first Challenge hosted by Linköping University – developing a sustainable health centre in Costa del Sol.
Challenges are learning opportunities introduced by ECIU University member institutions in cooperation with businesses and public organisations across Europe. Participants broaden their knowledge and collaborate with peers and experts while seeking innovative solutions to real-life problems.
Judita was excited about the opportunities offered by Challenges and eager to share her experience with others. That didn’t go unnoticed and a few Challenges later, she got an exciting offer – to become a student ambassador for ECIU University.
It didn’t take Judita long to decide. She was already passionate about ECIU University and knew her peers would feel the same – if someone was there to guide and support them.
‘At the very beginning of my ECIU University journey, I had a lot of information available, but no one to ask about things – like their own experience with Challenges or travelling to different universities,’ she explains.
‘I thought about how much easier it would be if a student at my university could answer my questions. So, when I received an invitation to join the ambassadors, I decided to become that student to others.’
There are over 50 student ambassadors across 12 institutions, all working to build an inclusive and diverse community that creates new opportunities for learners and supports their aspirations.
As an ambassador, Judita participates in various community-building projects, while also offering advice and guidance to students interested in micro-modules and Challenges. Usually, they have plenty of questions to ask – and Judita is always there to help.
Micro-modules are courses that help learners gain new perspectives and deep dive into various topics, preparing them for participation in Challenges and future academic and career growth.
‘Answering students’ questions is so easy for me, almost like my second nature,’ she explains. ‘I was in their place and faced similar challenges, so I enjoy sharing my experience.’
‘It's a crucial part of being an ambassador for me as well. As they say, your journey only takes on meaning when you start talking about it.’
Judita likes staying in touch with students whom she introduces to ECIU University, helping when she gets a chance. But it doesn’t end there. Being an ambassador is a two-way street – not only does Judita raise awareness among students, but also helps to make sure their voices are heard.
‘As ambassadors, we represent both ECIU University and the students. We listen to what they have to say and try to find the most suitable solutions to their problems.’
Ambassadorship is all about working together – with ECIU University staff, international partners, other learners and, of course, fellow student ambassadors.
All of them are from different countries, universities and backgrounds, bringing different perspectives to the table. While this comes with a fair share of challenges, for Judita it’s also one of the best things about being an ambassador. It’s also an invaluable experience.
‘I am very independent by nature and used to working by myself. But now I’m learning to adapt to others,’ she explains. ‘We’re all from different fields and disciplines, but we find a way to work together and find common ground.’
Ambassadors have plenty of projects in the works – from developing ECIU University merchandise and participating in events like Hackathon to preparing for the upcoming ECIU University Forum 2025 in Trento (Italy) where they will meet face to face.
While this may sound like a lot, Judita has no intention of slowing down – not just as an ambassador but as an M-Lab project manager and ECIU University student. At ‘Young Lab’, she works to help students implement the ideas born during their studies through physical prototypes. She also keeps track of new learning opportunities to apply for and hopes to become part of the team that introduces a Challenge one day.
‘I would love to help create a Challenge,’ she says. ‘I have learned so much from my experiences so far and have so much to share with others. It would be incredible to experience this other side of ECIU University.’
Ambassadorship has been a transforming experience for Judita. That’s why she’s encouraging other students to join in as well – and make use of the unique opportunities this position offers.
‘Being an ambassador prepares you for your future career in a way no other experience does,’ she believes. ‘You learn to work in a team and to be a leader, to react and think quickly, to make decisions and take responsibility. All these things will be invaluable for you in the future.’
She also has advice to share with future fellow ambassadors.
‘Be open. As an ambassador, you will meet many different people from different fields and with different opinions. Embrace that diversity – it’s what makes the experience so valuable.’
ECIU University is an alliance of 12 universities in Europe. Here, learners from around the world connect with teachers, researchers, organisations, communities and businesses to work on real-life problems. This way, they build connections and make a societal impact, while gaining crucial knowledge and experience for their future path.
If you want to ask student ambassadors a question or become an ambassador yourself, contact your local ambassador or community coordinator here. If you’d like to contribute to an ECIU University project and help co-create the community of tomorrow, reach out to the learner engagement coordinator Ryan Wakamiya via ryan.wakamiya@eciu.eu.