James, a British linguistics and language student, first arrived in Lithuania as part of an Erasmus exchange program, chosen by his university. Initially aware of little about the country, he has since developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for Lithuania's culture and language. His experience began in Vilnius, a city that surprised him with its modernity, which contrasted with his prior assumptions. One of his memorable moments was seeing a provocative sign urging Putin to face justice in The Hague, signaling the country's strong political sentiments.

James enjoys the outspoken nature of Lithuanians, noting that despite Lithuania's small size, its people express their opinions boldly, which he deeply appreciates. Learning the Lithuanian language has allowed him to engage more fully with the culture, leading to a love for its unique and sometimes irregular grammar structures. He finds beauty in the language's irregularities, which adds a layer of richness to his learning experience and fosters a connection to the people he's meeting.

As James continues his studies in Lithuania, he reflects on how the experience has transformed his views on the country and its people. His story emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange programs like Erasmus in broadening perspectives and fostering connections across different cultures, as he continues to explore the nuances of both the language and the community around him.