From Summer Vibes to Semester Chaos

01.09.2024
Kategorie student life

Hi! I’m Natasha, a 26-year-old master’s student at Charles University in Prague, studying Society, Media, and Communication. My program is part of both the media and sociology departments, allowing me to explore diverse topics from different perspectives—a unique strength of Charles University’s interdisciplinary approach.

Prague is an incredible place to study. I love arriving before the academic year begins because the city is quieter but still has that summer vibe. This year, I came back just before the storms and floods, but it turned out to be perfect timing for some rest and recovery before the semester kicked off. Public transport here is amazing—so much better than back home in Israel! I’ve gotten used to walking everywhere, which is a fun change from driving everywhere, like in my home country.

The international community is one of the best parts of living here. I always have someone to grab coffee with or explore the city with. I even went to Slovakia with a friend before classes started—it was beautiful! And so easy to get to with Czechia’s amazing transport options! This is another amazing thing about Czechia: by being in the center of Europe and so accessible, you can travel and discover new places with such ease!

Dorm life is excellent, too—equipped with bars, gyms, amazing people and industrial laundry machines (which I needed after forgetting to do laundry all summer!). Now that classes have started, I’m back in the groove, catching up with friends and diving into engaging lectures. There’s always something exciting happening, whether in class or out in the city. Prague’s restaurant and cafe scene never disappoints either. I discovered a few new favourites, which always feel like an adventure. Prague truly feels like a place where there’s always more to explore!

Zuzana Zavřelová

Read more

Kategorie studies

How to handle the first weeks at college?

When I started university, I had so many questions. How difficult would it be? How would I find my way around? Would I be able to manage everything? What exactly are course credits and assessments? My first semester was quite stressful as I gradually figured everything out.

Read more About How to handle the first weeks at college?

Kategorie helpful tips

From Teacher to Student: 10 Lessons After a Decade of Teaching

From the Big Apple, to the City of a Hundred Spires (by way of the Silver State and the Green Mountain State), I have taught nearly 500 students over ten years. I’ve been  referred to as, “Ms. Stephanie”…“Ms. Parascandolo” … “Ms. P,” but now, I’m just “Stephanie” - a master’s student at University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice. Here are five lessons I’ve learned as a teacher that guide me as a student. 

Read more About From Teacher to Student: 10 Lessons After a Decade of Teaching

Kategorie work and career

From Bioengineering to Sustainability: Barbora Jankovičová´s Journey in Biotechnology

In the heart of Czechia’s growing research landscape, Barbora stands out as a young and passionate scientist committed to making a difference. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in bioengineering, Barbora’s work focuses on developing systems where bacteria process waste plant biomass into valuable chemicals - a promising step toward a more sustainable future. In this exclusive interview, Barbora shares her journey into the world of biotechnology, the challenges and rewards of her research, and her thoughts on the evolving role of women in STEM.

Read more About From Bioengineering to Sustainability: Barbora Jankovičová´s Journey in Biotechnology

Kategorie helpful tips

Merry Expat Christmas: Finding Home Away from Home

As a student living abroad, celebrating Christmas can be a bittersweet experience. For the past two years, I've been far from the familiar warmth of my family and lifelong friends, finding myself feeling homesick most of the time. This feeling intensified, considering I also celebrate my birthday in December, leading to three consecutive celebrations - birthday, Christmas, and New Year - all far from my loved ones. However, little did I know that these Christmas celebrations would evolve into an unexpected adventure of joy and connection.

Read more About Merry Expat Christmas: Finding Home Away from Home

Kategorie helpful tips

Exploring Czechia: Culture, Fun, and Everything In Between

Czechia may have a reputation for its amazing, old universities that look a bit like Hogwarts, but this country is also big on work-life balance. If you want to experience the best of both worlds - cultural immersion and some well-earned fun - Czechia's got you covered. Here's your guide to enjoying your time here while getting to know Czech culture (and the many nationalities that call it home)!

Read more About Exploring Czechia: Culture, Fun, and Everything In Between