As I embarked on this adventure, I wasn't sure how living in a new country would be. Thankfully, going to the Czech Republic exceeded my expectations in so many ways. Not only did I grow professionally, but I learned so many extra skills through the trips, activities, and classes I was able to go to. Getting to explore different cultures, try different foods, and meet students outside of my university at home was so exciting. The best part is realizing that all of these students are in the adventure with you, so I never felt alone. This experience changed how I view so many different things, and I am so grateful to have spent my summer in the Czech Republic!

This program truly helped improve my CV because it gave me my first real experience in a professional work environment. At the beginning it was a challenge, because I didn’t know anything about the company, but that feeling only lasted for a short time. Once I started, I learned something new every day, both from my tasks and from my coworkers and supervisors.

The people were very kind, fun, and welcoming. They always tried to include me and make me feel part of the team. I also had great support during my internship, with guidance, activities, and the experience of sharing with other interns.

I especially loved meeting Michael and William from CzechMates. They are always willing to help and are very supportive. I also made many friends with whom I shared great adventures. This program is a great opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, build new relationships, discover what you would like to work on in the future, and live unique experiences.

This program was a great study abroad experience, especially for individuals seeking to pursue research and plan to study abroad. The Summer School team is amazing, they plan multiple different weekend trips to nearby cities with provided accommodation, tours, and activities. Additionally, they assist with your transition to living in Brno and plan multiple weekly evening activities to help you get to know the city. The research advisors are also extremely supportive, and most will allow you to make weekend travel plans. I got to visit over 10 countries during the 9-week program. I met some of my closest friends during the program, and we still keep in touch almost a year later. I highly recommend this program, both for the research and the number of things to do in Brno and the surrounding countries.

This was by far the best experience I have ever had. First, it helped me with my academic development by being able to be in a laboratory setting everyday and gaining valuable experience. My colleagues were incredible helpful during my time in lab and helped me learn many new things. Being in an entire different country also helped me become more independent. Everything around you is different whether is be the people or language so it is great experience. Finally, the program gives tons of freedom to do whatever you want so being able to travel anywhere is amazing.

The program was unique because it was not only an internship but there were also integrated activities that allowed you to meet other people from other programs while also exploring eastern Europe. Some of the best bonding and real life learning experiences were from the scheduled weekend trips. From navigating a language barrier to the public transit, I notice I use the confidence and skills I learned in a foreign country in my every day life back in America. I no longer feel overwhelmed by the unknown, but look at it as a new and exciting adventure.

The University of Masaryk Team did a great job creating a welcoming and social environment that makes you feel comfortable despite being thousands of miles away from home. The program does a great job at offering engaging and interesting events on a daily basis that give you a sense of the culture and life abroad in the Czech Republic. The entire team was super welcoming and nice and always a host of knowledge and information. I would definitely recommend the program to all those interested and if I had to do it all over again I would 100% take it again.