Studying Cities, Living Sustainability.

I participated in the Summer School “Urban Sustainability, Engage in the Future” at Masaryk University, and it was a very meaningful and memorable experience for me. Before joining the program, I expected mainly lectures about sustainability, urban planning, and environmental issues. However, the course turned out to be much more practical, interactive, and engaging than I imagined.

What I liked most about this summer school was its hands on approach. Instead of only listening to lectures, we worked in international groups, did field observations, site visits, and real life case studies. We explored urban spaces, talked about real problems cities face today, and tried to propose solutions together. This made the learning process more interesting and easier to understand, even for students from different academic backgrounds.

The academic content was well organized and balanced. Field activities and group projects were the most interesting parts for me. Working with students from many countries helped me see urban sustainability from different cultural and social perspectives. Everyone brought their own experience, ideas, and opinions, which made discussions richer and more meaningful. I also improved my communication skills and learned how to work better in a multicultural team.

Another highlight of the program was the study trips. During the summer school, we visited several cities, including Bratislava in Slovakia, Prague in the Czech Republic, and Vienna in Austria. In each city, we joined guided city walks focused on urban sustainability, climate adaptation, and community planning. These trips helped us understand how different cities approach similar challenges in different ways. Seeing theory applied in real urban environments was very valuable.

Life in Brno itself was also a great experience. The city is clean, well organized, and easy to navigate with public transportation. The atmosphere was calm but lively at the same time. People were polite and friendly, and Masaryk University provided a very supportive environment for international students. Everything from accommodation to activities was well managed.

In addition to academic activities, the program included many non academic events, such as a boat party, folklore dancing, wine tasting, and swimming. These activities helped us relax, connect with each other, and build friendships outside the classroom. I met many amazing people from around the world, and we shared not only knowledge but also culture, stories, and everyday experiences.

Overall, this summer school gave me much more than academic knowledge. It helped me grow personally, become more confident, and gain international experience. I would strongly recommend this program to students who are interested in sustainability, cities, and working in an international environment. It is a great opportunity to learn, travel, and connect with people while gaining practical skills for the future.