Where East Meets West: A Semester of a Lifetime in Prague, Czech Republic Past Review
By Ilana S (Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, Brandeis University) for
CET Prague
Studying abroad has certainly made me more aware of cultural differences and similarities and gave me a deeper appreciation for European culture. Being away from home for so long has helped me realize my values, what is most important to me, and given me more confidence and self awareness.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The class schedule and work load was fair. Professors were very flexible and understanding of their students situations abroad while keeping high standards. The work load was certainly not up to the same par as at my home university which was a nice break. The classes were all lecture-based which is standard in Europe and took some adjustment. Professors made sure to include several field trips around the city and even held some classes in cafes. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Since CET is a small program, each student received individualized attention and support. CET administration was so helpful and available, always willing to help with Czech language, directions, travel advice, and city suggestions. I did not meet other Prague program participants who could speak so highly about their program administration. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in a beautiful and modern apartment with 3 roommates. The apartment came fully furnished (with bedding and kitchenware) and a washing machine. I lived in a building with half of the CET Prague program which was very nice. The neighborhood was residential but a quick tram ride away from city center and the CET building. The neighborhood was extremely safe and inexpensive. Close to large supermarket, many stores, banks, and nestled between 2 beautiful parks. It was really nice to live with a Czech student--she helped me get to know the city and language. |
| * Food: |
While not a huge fan of traditional Czech food, I was able to find great food all the time. I mostly cooked at home and found inexpensive and good food in many supermarkets and little shops. I only eat kosher meat so was somewhat limited when it came to eating at restaurants, but most places had good vegetarian options. When CET took us to dinner, they always offered a vegetarian option. There were several Kosher restaurants in the city and being a CET student offered some discounts (especially at Dinitz Kosher Restaurant). Some of my favorite restaurants include Maitrea (vegetarian), Clear Head (vegetarian), Country Life (vegetarian), and Lemon Leaf. (All have English menus and English speaking waiters) |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
CET took students on several trips, including an overnight to Cesky Krumlov, a fairytale town in the countryside, a weekend trip to Budapest, Hungary, and a week-long trip all around Poland. The trips were very well planned and run, filled with many opportunities to meet locals and site see. CET also took students on a day trip to Terezin with a guided tour by an amazing speaker who actually survived the camp. The program provided tickets to the Opera, hockey game, and soccer game. CET treated students to several dinners throughout the semester at beautiful restaurants. CET faculty and our Czech roommates were very helpful in showing us all around the city and suggesting great things to do/see. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Prague is an extremely safe city; I always felt safe in city center and my neighborhood, even at night. The public transportation system is excellent, on time, and safe. I heard of a break in at a student's apartment but my building was always safe. I luckily did not need any medical attention other than over the counter medication which was easy to purchase. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
Students entered beginners Czech and language professors were very helpful. Their expectation was not proficiency or perfection, but to raise a comfort and interest in Czech language. We were able to practice the language with our Czech roommates and around the city, however, most people spoke English (and many spoke very well!) |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | You'll fall in love with Prague and CET will help every step of the way. Prague is a beautiful and fun city with so much to offer students. Prague is often overlooked in the study abroad department, but it really has so much for every type of student--those interested in art, film, European history, Jewish history, politics, philosophy, etc. CET highlights Prague's advantages while also noting where Prague needs help. The Czech Republic is a new country, still understanding its place in Europe and reclaiming itself after the fall of Communism. It is really interesting to witness the country's regrowth after the Communist regime. CET is a wonderful program and helps you get the most out of your abroad experience. The Czech Republic's location offers you plenty of opportunity to travel throughout your semester. Prague plus: the city is so affordable--seriously, beer is cheaper than water (and so good)! |
