The adventure is over. My two months doing the IIP in Prague have come to an end and that this is the last blog post I’ll be writing for the summer. After spending an unforgettable summer in Europe, I’ve been back in California (still traveling around the state) for about a week and a half, and it’s been a joy to recount my adventures and experiences. Each story I share highlights how much I enjoyed my time in Prague, and I’m already looking forward to planning my next international travels. This journey has been more than just a work experience; it’s been a period of personal, academic, and professional growth filled with memories I’ll still be sharing in 30 years.
My final week in Prague was bittersweet as I wrapped up my internship and prepared to bid farewell to a city that had become like a second home. Reflecting on the past eight weeks, I realize how much I have grown in every aspect of my life The internship itself had its share of ups and downs, but it provided worthwhile lessons and experiences that have further shaped me.
During my time at Artiseme, I encountered various challenges and learning opportunities. The work environment was a mix of structured and chaotic, which pushed me to develop resilience and adaptability. Despite the busy and unpredictable nature of the office and the occasional misalignment between my tasks and initial job description, I learned to navigate ambiguity and make the most out of the situation. One of the highlights of my internship was taking on tasks related to marketing and web development. I enjoyed the creative aspects of these projects and appreciated the exposure to different areas within the company. I faced my fair share of difficulties with unclear guidance and limited feedback, but ultimately, I know these experiences allowed me to develop better problem-solving skills and learn the importance of self-reliance in a professional setting.
My personal growth during this summer has been significant. Living abroad and managing my own schedule in an unfamiliar city provided me with an appreciation for my independence. I’ve become comfortable with the unknown and learned to trust my instincts and resources. I was telling my uncle about all of my summer travels once I got back, and he happily reflected on his past and told me that I reminded him of himself when he was younger—independent, adventurous, and eager to explore the world. This affirmation of my independence has fueled my desire to continue exploring and experiencing new places.
Professionally, the internship reinforced my interest in working abroad. Having firsthand experience in an international work environment has boosted my confidence in pursuing global career opportunities after graduating from Pitt. The exposure to different workplace cultures, combined with the challenges of working in a small start-up, has helped me define what I enjoy (and don’t enjoy) in a job. I’ve realized the importance of a supportive and structured work environment, which can significantly impact job satisfaction and productivity.
Academically, this internship has bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. I found that many concepts I learned in my classes were applicable in the workplace, which reinforced the value of my education. This practical experience helped me understand what theories and strategies work in practice and which ones need adaptation. It also clarified what I enjoy and don’t enjoy in a job, particularly concerning workplace cultures and dynamics.
My time in Prague also highlighted communication differences between the Czech Republic and the United States. I noticed that while locals are generally more blunt and honest in their interactions, there’s a different approach to customer service and public etiquette. The challenge of navigating these differences was an excellent exercise in adapting to new cultural norms and enhancing my communication skills. It’s definitely been interesting integrating back into the States. I’ve been gone for 3 months, which doesn’t seem like that long, but after that much time away from what I find familiar, it was a little surprising to come back and have friendly strangers speak to me in my own language. I didn’t really get any of that abroad in public or the workplace!
My last week in Prague was filled with a mix of reflection and exploration. I spent time with my new abroad friends, revisited my favorite spots, and discovered new parts of the city. I find myself reminiscing about my weekend trips to different parts of Europe, which were all pretty spontaneous and filled with fun times. These weekend experiences and my extended time in Prague have left me with a deep appreciation for European culture and an eagerness to continue traveling.
As I prepare to return to the familiar comforts of home, I carry a wealth of experiences and lessons learned with me. Prague will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to the opportunity to return someday. This summer has not only broadened my horizons but has also helped me understand myself better and what I want from my future career. I am grateful for the chance to have lived and worked in such a dynamic environment and am excited to see where my next adventure will take me.
So díky (thank you), Prague, for an incredible and unforgettable summer. I can’t wait until we meet again. And thank you to Pitt Study Abroad for the best summer I could have asked for, even though my wallet might be empty now.
<3 Ava
