For Simonas Gylys, the world of sound has always been more than just audio — it has been a form of storytelling. Drawn from an early age to film, music and the arts, he began his career before university as a music manager, gaining hands on experience that sparked a deeper curiosity about how sound shapes atmosphere, emotion and narrative. What began as a fascination with music production gradually grew into a wider passion for sound design, film sound and spatial audio.

Simonas Gylys

Why BU? A Creative Environment That Felt Right
Simonas always had an ambition to study abroad, but it wasn’t until several years of exploring different jobs that he truly understood the direction he wanted to take. When he realised he wanted to develop his skills in music and sound, he began researching universities overseas — and the decision became clear after visiting a close friend studying at BU.
The campus atmosphere struck him immediately: creative, open, warm and supportive. BU felt like a place where he could grow both academically and personally. After that visit, choosing the BSc (Hons) Music and Sound Production Technology course became the obvious next step.

A Practical, People Centred Experience
When reflecting on his university years, Simonas doesn’t hesitate: the best part was the people and the opportunities. He studied alongside talented, motivated likeminded people and was taught by lecturers who blended academic knowledge with real industry credibility. The course offered the balance he was looking for — rich theory supported by constant practical application.

Access to BU’s professional grade studios, labs, recording spaces and equipment was another standout feature. For Simonas, being able to book high end gear at any time of day unlocked a creative freedom he had never experienced before. Many of his favourite memories come from long nights experimenting in the studios with friends — sometimes refining techniques, sometimes creating for fun, always learning.

Beyond the academic side, the social environment was equally impactful. The friendships, events and lively student life all contributed to an unforgettable three years.

Forging a Career in Sound
After graduating, Simonas returned to Lithuania and began freelancing across a wide range of audio related projects: TV commercials, radio programmes, live gigs, conferences, student films and more. The diversity of work suited him perfectly, and the practical training from BU meant he adapted quickly to different technical and creative demands.

Simonas Gylys in the studio

His growing reputation soon led to a role as a Sound Operator at Klaipėda Drama Theatre, where he spent two highly influential years. Working on numerous productions — including six premiere shows — deepened his understanding of sound design in immersive environments. A career highlight came when he was selected as one of three sound operators for the nationally broadcast Auksiniai scenos kryžiai (Golden Stage Cross) theatre awards, a moment that was both professionally validating and personally meaningful.

Alongside the theatre role, Simonas also co managed a recording studio, SoundPort Records. There, he focused on commercial and installation based audio projects, while his colleague worked more with bands and musicians. This period strengthened his leadership, studio management and project coordination skills — skills that would later prove surprisingly transferable.

A New Direction: Project Management and Sustainability
After two intense years in theatre and audio, and following the birth of his daughter, Simonas decided it was time for a new professional challenge. He transitioned into a Project Manager position at Įkrautas, a company specialising in EV charging stations, solar solutions and battery storage systems for B2B and B2C clients.

He now oversees consumer focused projects across Lithuania, managing each stage from contract signing to final delivery and ensuring high levels of client satisfaction. Although the industry is different, Simonas finds many parallels with his work in sound: precision, problem solving, communication under pressure and an ability to coordinate complex processes.

Most importantly, he enjoys the sense of purpose — knowing that his work contributes to sustainability and improves people’s everyday lives. Still, he’s certain he hasn’t left sound behind forever: “Experience has taught me that sound has a way of pulling me back.”

Words of Advice for Future Students
Simonas offers thoughtful guidance for those considering a similar path:
• Take risks. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.
• Stay curious. The most valuable learning often happens beyond scheduled classes.
• Build relationships. University is full of people who will shape your journey.
• Enjoy the moment. The years go by faster than you expect.
He still catches himself thinking about returning to BU for a Master’s one day — a testament to how meaningful his student experience truly was.