Simona Skiotytė in Lithuania
We're featuring alumni from all over the world from A to Z. Our next stop is Lithuania with Simona Skiotytė, a software developer focused on Generative AI at Nasdaq.
What country are you currently living in, and what motivated your decision to move there?
I'm currently living in my home country, Lithuania. There were several reasons for my decision to move back after spending five years abroad. One of the main reasons was homesickness—I missed my culture, family, and familiar surroundings. Another reason was more practical: I was awarded a scholarship from the Lithuanian government for outstanding students, which came with the condition that I return and contribute to the country by working here for a few years.
What is your current job, and what does your typical workday look like?
My typical workday is a bit different from most, as I collaborate closely with a team based in the United States. I usually start my mornings with some physical activity—either a swim or a group workout at the gym. I arrive at work a bit before noon and begin my day as a software developer focused on Generative AI at Nasdaq. My work often involves solving technical puzzles and building tools that help integrate Generative AI into our users' daily workflows. In the evenings, I like to unwind either by volunteering or spending time with friends. On weekends, I enjoy visiting museums, taking walks around the city, or attending an international book club where a group of women and I read and discuss books written by women authors.
Have you faced any challenges since living in Lithuania, and how have you addressed them?
When I moved back to Lithuania after five years abroad, I experienced what is commonly referred to as reverse culture shock. It felt strange at first to understand everything people were saying around me—to no longer need to ask someone to speak slower or switch to English. During my studies at ETH Zürich, my social circle was made up of Swiss and international students, and returning to Lithuania meant no longer being seen as a foreigner. Still, I had to re-adapt to the local ways of communicating, thinking, and even interacting socially. It was a process of becoming reacquainted with my own culture.
Were there specific courses or activities during your time at ETH that have proven to be particularly valuable for you?
It’s hard to single out just one or two highlights from my Master’s program—it was a combination of experiences that made it truly invaluable. I completed my Master’s degree in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary field that blends biology and computer science. This integration taught me to think creatively and systematically, to draw connections between diverse concepts, and to always consider the broader picture without adding unnecessary complexity.
How do you stay connected with ETH and your university friends?
My friends and I have made an effort to stay connected despite being in different countries now. We’ve set up a routine to have video calls every month or so, and we keep in touch through regular messages about our lives and adventures. It definitely takes effort—we went from seeing each other several times a week at ETH to only catching up online or visiting once or twice a year. But maintaining these friendships is incredibly important to us, and every bit of time we invest in staying connected is worth it.
What is a "typical" word from the country?
Ačiū was voted the most beautiful and popular word in the Lithuanian language. It means "thank you" and sounds like "achoo"—as if you're sneezing—which often makes it memorable and endearing to non-native speakers. Another word that people find amusing and interesting is one of the longest in Lithuanian: nebeprisikiškiakopūsteliaujantiesiems. It’s a playful word that children often learn, meaning "for those who are no longer picking wood sorrels." It's a fun example of how rich and complex the Lithuanian language can be.
What’s your favorite traditional dish?
My favourite Lithuanian dish has to be šaltibarščiai, also known as pink soup. It's a beloved cold beetroot soup enjoyed especially in spring and summer. It's so popular that we even have a Pink Soup Festival in Vilnius each spring to celebrate it! Its bright pink colour and refreshing taste make it a staple in many Lithuanian homes during warmer months.
–
Do you want to share your life abroad with fellow ETH Alumni? Get in touch for more information on how to get involved!