I loved living in Olomouc! Past Review
By Emily K (Language Arts Education, University of Nebraska - Kearney) for
Palacky University: Olomouc - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
It's a great program! I had the chance of a lifetime and I'm so thankful I took it. I have learned so much more about the Czech Republic and it's people. It is such a wonderful place with a very rich people and history. I gained a much better understanding of my world and international affairs. I now have a much broader perspective. I'm very interested in international studies and I can't wait to visit my next country!
Personal Information
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I learned so much from the classes over there. Learning the history of the Czech Republic from actually Czech people is completely different than learning it here in America. I got to see how they view their history and I feel so much more educated about the Czech Republic in a way I never could be here. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
It's a great program and I'm so thankful I went. The only weaknesses are the lack of information prior to going. There is only 1 informational meeting before leaving and that is in February. Having more meetings and earlier would be a great thing for this program. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I loved living in Olomouc! It's a great city with lots of history and it's not too big. The location of our dorm's was pretty good as well. However, I really would have enjoyed having a host family. That would have given me a much more complete picture of what Czech life is really like. |
| * Food: |
The food is absolutely delicious!!!! My favorite dish is goulash! You have got to try it! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I am not a partier so my social experience was quite different than most. There are a lot of oportunities to party in Olomouc, and some fun bars and clubs. I really didn't get much into this scene and there isn't a whole lot of other things to do if you don't party. I really enjoyed the music festivals or groups that would perform occationally. The trips we went on as a group were amazing! They were some of my favorite memories of the trip. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Olomouc is a very safe town. It's large enough to have some benefits of a larger town, but it doesn't feel like a city. I felt very safe and healthy here. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I got to really experience the Czech language. I had to use it every day and I really enjoyed it. |
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | It's an experience worth taking! While you are in the Czech Republic, make sure you take the opportunity to see other countries. You are so close to many counties in Europe and it is just amazing to see so much history and culture. Other advice: I would recomend bringing a few thousand dollars for living/spending money. Take advantage of the cultural events going on in Olomouc. They are super fun and a great experience. Get to know other students not in the program. |
