“Ad Astra”, now in its fourth year, is an event that brings together the entire community of Vilnius University and the city. This year, the festival, which has become a tradition, starts on 31 August at 1 p.m. and is like an unofficial start of the university year, and the next day, with good energy, we continue to celebrate education, return to the faculties, and take part in the traditional 1st of September procession. The event, which strikes the perfect balance between science and youthfulness, attracts several thousand participants every year.
Lijana Savickienė, President of VU SR, shares her thoughts on the Integration Festival: "The academic community that floods the University's spaces every year, gathering at the integration festival “Ad Astra”, which has already become a tradition, is a great space not only for those who are starting their studies, to get to know the university spirit, but also for those who are studying already to welcome another year of studies surrounded by colleagues. Discussions, interactive activities, music and, above all, the University ensure a cheerful welcome to a new beginning."
During the festival, you will have the opportunity to participate in discussions and workshops, get to know the University and the members of its community who will accompany you in the coming years of your studies, discover student organisations and, of course, have a great time!
The festival will consist of 3 parts
1-5 pm: panel discussions with well-known experts from the University and from outside the University and workshops. During the debates we will talk about the changing university, science communication, the differences between studying and being a student and we will also have a guest-organised panel discussion. This is a great opportunity to learn about topics that are currently important at the University and to gain new knowledge and ideas that will be useful during your studies. “Ad Astra's” speakers are always active, interesting and lively, so we guarantee you a good and enjoyable time together.
During the workshop, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with one of the biggest academic innovations at Vilnius University this academic year – individual studies. If you've heard about it before, you probably have questions about how it will work, but if it's new to you, you'll hear everything from the smallest details. We will also invite you to get to know and try out the programmes, clubs and projects organised by VU SR. Of course, we will also touch upon sustainability, sports, and cultural activities, which are a big part of the post-lecture life of Vilnius University.
5-7 pm: we will be waiting for you at the Contact Fair. Here you will have the opportunity to get to know student organisations and Vilnius University and ask any questions you may have. Find out how you can fulfil yourself and gain invaluable experience while studying at Vilnius University. If you know that you are always looking for extra activities, but have no idea where to start when you arrive in Vilnius, this is the programme part for you. From dancing or various sports clubs, to theatre or scientific societies. Come, get to know each other and join from the beginning of the school year.
7-9 pm: we invite you to spend the evening to the beat of the music and enjoy two spectacular bands. The performers will be revealed a little later, but we can guarantee that they will be worth the attention and the ovation!
