IFSA Prague, Czech Republic

My two older sisters went abroad through IFSA, one to Australia and one to Scotland. It was so intriguing to observe how much each of them grew and changed, and how prominent of a role IFSA played in their experience. When I was choosing where I wanted to study abroad, I knew that it was a priority for me to utilize IFSA as the provider because of how much they truly care about their students. Reflecting back on studying abroad with IFSA, I was very satisfied with how well they communicated with me and my family from the day I got into the program to the day I returned home. Safety was also a big factor for me, but IFSA was so timely in their messaging of when they were potentially protests or conflicting events occurring in the city that we should be cautious around. Also, whenever we wanted to take a weekend trip or leave the city, students had to fill out a brief form to tell their program director where they would be. I really liked this aspect because I felt really cared for and looked after as I was venturing to new and foreign cities. In Prague, there were multiple day trips planned by our director that helped us fully immerse ourselves into the culture and landscape of the city. We went on group walking tours, went to restaurants together and were taught how to order things off the menu, toured castles and churches, learned the general history, and were introduced to many local students. The activities planned enhanced my experience so much because I feel I truly got to understand and know Prague. I highly recommend studying abroad through IFSA because they help you make the most out of your few months abroad, and they will be there helping you learn and grow every step of the way. I feel I am a more empathetic, adventurous and open-minded individual because of how much IFSA challenged me and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone.

Photos

I studied abroad in Prague last Fall. At Prague College, I was able to attend their School of Computing and participate in enriching classes in subjects I actually cared about. When not in class, I had the opportunity to grow a tight-knit bond with the small group of American students who went abroad on the same program. We all lived in the same building, a 10-minute walk to Prague College and Old Town Square. We lived in spacious, single-bed lofts in apartments that were made for traveling students: I had the opportunity to meet European and American students I never would have met otherwise! I was able to balance academic work with cultural experience and had so much fun! I'd do anything to go back!

Photos

My experience studying abroad in the Czech Republic was one that I will never forget. I was able to meet so many individuals from different countries in my flat, from my program, and from Prague College. Prague College opened many opportunities for me. I was able to explore and learn about the the film industry, European politics, and the construction of a video game. I never thought I'd ever make my own video game! However, this experience taught me the many possibilities I have in the future. Then, I was able to make so many other fun memories in Prague as well. I was able to get my first medal for completing a marathon in Prague, listen to beautiful classical music concerts during Prague Spring, and go to the Prague Open. There were also excursions that the program took our group on that let all of us get closer, while also learning more about Czech culture. Our program supervisor, Jana, did a fantastic job always supporting all of us and helping us move in to our new home. Jana was a huge factor that made my experience so wonderful and I cannot thank her enough. This program is very organized and it was easy moving into a new country. The Czech Republic will always be a special place.