As this is my last week in Prague, I have been reflecting on how much I have learned and how grateful I am for this experience. Living and working in a different country has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and has given me a much deeper understanding of how culture influences communication. During my time in the Czech Republic, I noticed that communication is often more direct and low-context than what I am used to. People tend to express their thoughts clearly and honestly, and at first, I sometimes misunderstood this directness as being unfriendly or overly critical. However, as I spent more time here, I realized that this communication style is simply part of the culture and is often meant to be efficient, straightforward, and respectful.

Starting out at Confirmo, I would overthink comments or worry that I had done something wrong, but I learned that feedback was intended to help me improve rather than criticize me personally. By asking questions and keeping an open mind, I was able to better understand others and adapt to different ways of communicating. I also noticed how much value is placed on punctuality, preparation, and clear communication. Team members appreciated openness and expected everyone to contribute their ideas. Over time, I became more confident speaking up, asking questions, and participating in discussions. These experiences not only improved my communication skills but also helped me grow personally.

As I prepare to leave Prague, I feel incredibly thankful for everything this experience has taught me. I am grateful for the people I have met, the lessons I have learned, and the opportunity to experience a different culture firsthand. This journey has shown me the importance of being patient, adaptable, and open to new perspectives. I know that the communication skills and cultural awareness I have gained here will stay with me long after I return home.