Why did you decide to study abroad with AIFS at Charles University?
Michelle: I decided to study abroad with the AIFS program at Charles University because I already knew that I wanted to study abroad in Prague but my school, at the time, didn't offer a study abroad program to the Czech Republic. When I looked at the AIFS program, I felt impressed by the itinerary and activities. In addition to studying in Prague, the itinerary also included weekend excursions to nearby countries, like Poland and Austria.
I felt like with AIFS, I would fully experience the study abroad opportunity through the cultural excursions and academic program. AIFS arranged all the behind-the-scenes details of studying abroad that I would have never thought of, like prepaid metro cards to help us get around the city. I’m really grateful that I chose the AIFS program at Charles University because I truly felt prepared and safe through their program while having a great time.
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Michelle: The people who also chose to study abroad with the AIFS program at Charles University made the experience really memorable. When I thought about studying abroad in Prague, I always imagined falling in love with the scenery and the local culture because the city is so beautiful and the culture is so vibrant. However, if it weren’t for the company of the other AIFS kids who chose to study abroad, I know I wouldn’t have enjoyed the city half as much without them.
Everyone got along in our group really well, even though we were all from different places. Simple things like planning where to go for dinner or meeting up with friends in the city after class become cherished memories once you leave the city! You find yourself thinking back to those times and you really feel a connection to the place you chose to study abroad when you think about all the people you miss.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Michelle: The entire study abroad experience really made me grow and mature as a person. When you’re not in your immediate comfort zone, especially in a foreign place, you have to learn how to adapt quickly. I think I became a more independent person after I studied abroad. When you study abroad, you get to decide what you want to do each and every day, around your class schedule. Since I knew my time was precious and limited abroad, I feel like I planned out my days with more insight then I would normally give each day. Now that I’m back home, that independence still carries over in that you have to figure out what your priorities are for the day or week and try to stick with a plan that allows you to get work done while still having fun.
In general, being abroad for the first time in Europe was an experience I never had before. It was a big cultural awakening for me and I loved it. I think to enjoy studying abroad, you should be as open-minded as possible because there are so many new things to learn and try. Being open-minded carries over to every aspect of life, whether it’s personally, professionally, or academically. There are always going to be things outside of your comfort zone that you have to learn and adapt to – but once you conquer those things, you become a stronger person. No matter how corny it sounds, studying abroad really is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make you reflect and change to become a more mature and independent person.