At Kent State, the want to study abroad is undeniable. With an array of 200+ programs and a campus in the heart of Florence, Italy, the university offers students from all disciplines a chance to broaden their horizons. Yet, as I searched for the right program, I wanted something different from the familiar paths my peers took.
Growing up, I watched influencers and YouTubers visit the all-enchanting city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, and a seed of curiosity was planted. Fast forward to last fall, I took a leap of faith, placing myself in the center of Czech culture for a semester.
A year later, I reflect on how radically different life can be in a new country. In Prague, I was struck by the lust for life among its citizens. The mantra seemed to be “less work, more joy.” Social gatherings centered around casual drinks and fresh produce being easily accessible from charming weekly pop-up markets, rather than corporate grocery chains. It was a complete departure from the often frenetic pace of American culture.
Living in Prague illuminated the beauty of small joys — like the city’s efficient public transportation system. Each ride on a tram, bus or subway became an opportunity to lose myself in a book or listen to a new album, all while gazing at the distant but grand Prague Castle. The ease of navigating a clean, connected city without the burden of a car was refreshing and liberating.
However, the most formidable challenge — one that ultimately became the most rewarding — was the language barrier. I had prepared for my semester abroad with a year’s worth of Czech lessons through Duolingo and enrolled in a language course at my host university. My instructor, Ilona, commuted from the countryside each weekend to teach in the city, bringing warmth and dedication to working with international students. Initially daunting, the course pushed me to my limits. During the midterm, I was bluntly told I needed to step up my game, if I wanted to pass. By the final, however, I stood proudly presenting entirely in Czech. A true testament to my growth.
It’s tempting to romanticize my four months abroad, but what truly enriched my experience was the profound cultural exchange. I connected with students whose families had fled the trepidation of the ongoing war in Ukraine and young women eager to define themselves beyond traditional cultural roles. My time in Prague wasn’t just about navigating a new city or culture; it was a transformative period of growth, connection and exploration.
From late nights and borderline early mornings in busy clubs to spontaneous weekend trips across Europe, each moment contributed to a vibrant array of experiences that I will cherish forever. Looking back, I see not just a semester in a foreign land, but a pivotal chapter in my life that challenged my perceptions and expanded my understanding of the world.
As I’ve settled back into my routine in America, I carry with me the lessons learned and the friendships forged. Studying abroad is more than just an academic endeavor; it is a journey that shapes who we are, urging us to embrace the unfamiliar and celebrate the beauty of diversity. To those considering this path, I say, take that leap. You might just discover a new version of yourself waiting on the other side.
Dylan Walker is a columnist. Contact him at [email protected].
