My Prague

Studying abroad in Prague, Czech Republic was one of the most meaningful experiences of my college journey. I was able to engage with the local community in so many ways, from my Subcultures class where we attended the Witch Festival in April and met local musicians, to my favorite course, Czech Food & Brewing Traditions with CEA CAPA. In that class, we didn’t just try Czech dishes—we actually cooked and baked them ourselves, which gave us a real appreciation for the traditions behind meals like goulash and smažený sýr. We even learned about cultural celebrations, such as decorating eggs for Easter or baking a cake in the shape of a lamb, which made me feel connected to Czech traditions in a hands-on way.

Outside of the classroom, I joined my partner university’s Travel Club, which took us to hidden Czech towns just a short bus ride away. These trips gave me the chance to see everyday life outside of Prague and experience places I never would have found on my own. CEA CAPA also planned fun activities to help us bond, like bowling nights and even a river cruise, and they offered excursions throughout the country that were always worth it. Their support made adjusting to life abroad much easier and encouraged me to make the most of every opportunity.

One of the best parts about being in Prague is its location—it’s so central that in only two hours you could be in Dresden, Germany, or exploring the UNESCO town of Český Krumlov. Traveling within and beyond the Czech Republic helped me see just how connected Europe is, and it pushed me to step outside my comfort zone.

Looking back, my biggest piece of advice for anyone considering studying abroad is this: don’t be afraid to travel, try new things, and immerse yourself in the culture. At first, it can feel intimidating, especially if the local language isn’t English, but those are the experiences that will stick with you the most. This really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and taking every chance to explore and connect will make it unforgettable.