Over these last four weeks, I cannot even begin to count the number of times I’ve heard this phrase: příští zastávka. It means next stop in Czech, and it is always announced by the same automated voice at each stop on the tram. I rode the tram multiple times every day, and the ease and convenience of public transportation is one of the things I will miss most about Prague!
As I’m preparing to leave, I feel so many emotions: disbelief that the program is already over, sadness as I’m packing up my side of the room and saying goodbye to my roommates, excitement at the thought of being back home and seeing my family, but most of all gratitude for this amazing experience, all the memories I’ve made, and all the new things I’ve learned. Our professor encouraged us to make daily journal entries over the course of the program, and as I look back at the pages, I really feel like every day was special and contained something new. There is so much to do and see in the city, and while I’m sure we didn’t get to everything, I am very pleased with how much we got to explore over the last month.
Prague was the perfect setting for this program since the courses focused on Gothic literature and banned books. I learned about Gothic themes and motifs, famous Gothic writers like Kafka, and the role that architecture (including Prague Castle) played in inspiring well-known works in this genre. I also learned so much about the Czech Republic and its history of being occupied—first by the Nazis, later by the Soviets. The oppression that the city and its inhabitants faced during these occupations was integral to our discussions of banned books. I feel so lucky to have had such a hands-on experience with the course material being integrated into the history, architecture, and culture of the city: it was an amazing way to learn!
As I reflect on the “soft” skills I developed during this program, adaptability immediately comes to mind. In a group of 10, I’ve learned to be more flexible when it comes to itineraries, including places to eat and things to do. For example, as a picky eater, I’ve had to branch out when the majority of the group wanted to try specific restaurants with limited menus. This happened a few times, and while I was hesitant at first, I ended up having some of the best meals at the restaurants they chose. Adaptability was also necessary because I brought so little with me. I now feel like I could really get by with just a few things, and I feel inspired to take this minimalist mindset back home with me.
I also mentioned this in my previous post, but I feel that this program has pushed me to think in new ways. As an accounting major, taking two upper-level literature courses forced me to exercise a different part of my brain, but I think this has enabled me to develop a new perspective. This content was less about objectivity and clear-cut analysis, but instead focused on dualities, nuance, and subjective interpretation. Having the ability to think in both of these ways will allow me to be a well-rounded critical thinker, which will serve me both personally and professionally. I have always wanted to work in international business in some capacity, and I truly believe this experience will help me achieve that goal. I now know more about cross-cultural communication, navigating in foreign countries, and adapting to new environments.
To my scholarship donor, thank you so incredibly much for your contribution to my global experience. I made so many unforgettable memories and close friendships that I will cherish forever. Thank you for making this possible!