What is your home country and academic background?

I am Viltė from Lithuania, a Baltic nation with deep cultural ties to Estonia. My bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture and Design from the United Kingdom equipped me with foundational skills in sustainable materials and design thinking. This background ignited my passion for advanced materials science, leading to my Master's at TalTech, where I've specialized in polymers.

What were your main criteria when choosing a country for your studies abroad?

EU membership was paramount for seamless travel, work opportunities, and integration, allowing me to focus on studies without bureaucratic hurdles. I sought a technologically advanced country with strong engineering programs.

What kind of information did you look for about Estonia and TalTech before applying?

I discovered Estonia during childhood holidays, since it is close to Lithuania, I got to visit it many times. What captivated me was the familiar "Baltic feeling" (quiet, unpretentious vibe that felt like home, not foreign). Since I already knew a lot about Estonia, I focused on TalTech. What interested me were global rankings, curriculum details for Materials Science, faculty expertise, and alumni outcomes. I reviewed the program syllabus, lab facilities, and industry partnerships.

Which factors were decisive in choosing TalTech?

TalTech's reputation (top 2% globally in engineering) and the Materials Science program's curriculum were decisive. The curriculum's alignment with my interests, plus campus integration of labs and thesis work from week one, set it apart. Free tuition and scholarship possibilities further cemented my choice.

Did you consider other countries or universities? Why did you ultimately choose Estonia and TalTech?

I prioritized EU options but didn't explore beyond, as Estonia's familiarity and TalTech's specialized program matched perfectly. It being close to my home country enabled me to visit family on shorter holidays as well.

What was your first impression of Estonia and TalTech?

I noticed Estonia's hyper-digital society immediately. It is great being able to sign documents online and avoid queues or commuting to government facilities in other parts of the city. TalTech's modern campus felt vibrant and integrated.

Academically, TalTech's structure eased the shift from design to science, with supportive professors. Building a routine with studies and new friends solidified my sense of belonging. 

How would you describe the quality of education and study organization at TalTech?

TalTech delivers high-quality and highly organized education with expert faculty. Digital tools ensure seamless access to resources which minimizes disruptions.

In what ways does the academic environment here differ from your previous experience?

TalTech emphasizes practice, weekly labs versus lectures. Studies are extremely practice-oriented: weekly practicals, industry trips, and research on thesis from week one. Professors facilitated unique demonstrations, like electrospinning of fibers. Smaller classes enable personalized mentorship.

How international is your study environment?

Highly international. I interact with students from different continents on a regular basis. Group projects and seminars reflect this diversity as well.

How would you describe student life outside the classroom?

I would call it flexible and enriching. There are a lot of student events organized by university societies, however I prefer a calmer lifestyle and mostly focus on my studies and relationships as well as hobbies. Time management allows balance despite intensive labs. Tallinn’s cafes and nature provide me with a calm escape when things get overwhelming.

Has this experience influenced your career plans? If yes, how?

Absolutely. I initially had aimed to go into industry but my experience at TalTech made me shift to continuing my journey at TalTech with a PhD. My Master’s thesis clarified my research passion.

Do you feel that choosing Estonia and TalTech was the right decision? Why?

Yes. The personal comfort, top-tier education, and growth opportunities aligned perfectly. 

What do you value most about Estonia and/or TalTech?

Estonia's digital efficiency and welcoming vibe. TalTech's practical, globally ranked programs and supportive community.

What has helped you feel at home here?

Friendships in Tallinn have been key, alongside adopting my cat here. Estonia's nature reminds me of home as well.

How would you summarize your experience in two sentences?

TalTech transformed my design background into Materials Science expertise through immersive labs and global peers. Estonia feels like an extended home, fueling my PhD journey here.

Technology of Wood, Plastics, and Textiles Master's program 

Admissions are open until 1 June 2026, read more here.