Czech Republic: Prague - Politics, Culture, the Arts

To this day, I recall the time I spent in Prague with the fondest of memories; there was incredible food, friendships that continue today, and misadventures that still make me smile in the middle of a real-life rough day. My claim to fame during my time spent in that amazing city is re-naming an impossible-to-pronounce Czech dessert. Imagine, if you will, a doughy, deep friend, cinnamon-sugar coated roll with chocolate spread all over it. Hard to resist, yeah? Also impossible to say in a language riddled with consonants- trdelnik. But when you constantly crave it, you have to name it so that's exactly what I did- in my group of friends it forever became known as a trandinkle. I would give a lot of money for one here in the states. It makes me smile to remember the day I tried and failed to pronounce it and then tried it for the first time, never to be the same person again. Prague will forever hold a special place in my heart for so many reasons- this is just a small one. I will return one day for that famous dessert.

I loved studying abroad in Prague. For one thing, it's really cheap to live in Prague and it's so easy to travel. I went somewhere at least every other weekend. And the people who run the program, Jan and Dasa, are really funny and really helpful. It was a fantastic experience.

As a STEM major, I didn't think I'd ever have the opportunity to study abroad while still graduating on time. Not only was I able to have the amazing opportunity to do so, I was also fortunate enough to do it in one of the most amazing cities ever. Praha is a city with an incredibly rich history and a vibrant culture. I can remember spending many nights walking through the city and just admiring the architecture or going to the numerous bars and enjoying drinks and conversation with my fellow USAC students.

My time in USAC was such a phenomenal experience. Their staff truly cares about the students and did a phenomenal job coming up with field trips for us to attend and other cultural events. I will never forget visiting Kutna Hora- what an experience.
I loved the Czech food but be prepared to gain some weight! There was a ton of history and as long as you stay in certain areas, the city is extremely safe. Try to learn a few Czech phrases before you go as the locals really appreciate it! And don't miss the Easter Marekts

You feel like you're living in a fairy tale with the stoned Charles bridge leading to the castle. The people may keep to themselves a bit, but after a few drinks of their beer that they love so much, they are super friendly. And the prices are unbeatable! Since the Czech Republic is not on the euro, a meal that costs $6 is considered expensive. Don't forget to eat their delicious gulas and trdlenik.

My expectations with USAC-Prague were blown out of the water! The staff and teachers are great. There was a week excursion offered before classes, and it was the best $400 I have ever spent! It took you to 3 countries, and a small town in southern Czech Republic. The excursions during the program were also great. The living accommodations are amazing. I was lucky enough to have my own room at the apartment I was at, but that was not the case at the other location. Overall, if you are looking for a cheaper program that still has all the frills, and a different place to go, this is the program for you. And Prague is an unreal city. Very cheap, so your money will go far.

The Program director was so incredibly helpful and supportive no matter what problems students had. The planned weekend excursions were lots of fun! Professors are great - we go on lots of field trips to local museums. Celebratory boat cruise to end the trip. More culturally rewarding than other programs. Great night life in Prague!

Living in Prague was a wonderful experience as far as viewing historical architecture and living in a large city. The academics through USAC weren't challenging and I felt like the program was geared more towards people that wanted to show up, party a ton with like minded program participants, and go home. There was a distinct lack of immersion in the local culture due to the program specific education and field trips. Participants lived only with fellow program participants (fellow U.S. college students) and went on field trips with only fellow program participants. It was difficult to immerse oneself in other cultures besides your own.