Declassified Guide #7: Harder-earned Final Thoughts

After almost four months of living, studying, and exploring in Prague, we’re proud to say that we’ve each learned a lot. We learned how to convert crowns to dollars, how to say a perfect dobry den, and which restaurant makes the best fried cheese in town. Some of us traveled alone for the first time, or went to a techno club, or even got a ticket from the Czech Transport inspectors.

As we packed our bags and struggled to figure out how much three checked bags will cost us, we took the time to write down some of our final thoughts. They’re sappy, but true. Enjoy!

Tip # 356: Learning is not only reading books

I have never thought that education can be so fun. During 11 years of school I have not learned as much as I did in these four months. I will definitely miss going on different field trips, events, activities — this was my favorite part of NYU Prague. This semester was full of new, exciting experiences that have developed me in both intellectual and cultural ways. I can say I went through some kind of internal transformation and understood lots of different things.

Tip # 019: Get curious about local history and culture

Coming to Prague, I knew nothing about the country I was going to live in for the next four months. I didn’t know its language, its history, or even if it was called the Czech Republic or Czechoslovakia. Although I blame my parents for that one, they learned its name during the 80’s and have called it Czechoslovakia ever since. But during my time here, I’ve committed to learning everything I can about the Czech Republic. Whether it’s through classes, field trips, or just talking to your RAs and the people around you, you’ll be surprised just how interesting it is to learn about Prague, and how much it’ll teach you about the U.S. and the world in general.

Tip # 004: Embrace this time in your life!

Studying abroad is one of the weirdest and most unique experiences I’ve ever had. It seemed scary at first to move to a new country and make all new friends, but ultimately it’s so rewarding. My advice to anyone coming to Prague, as cheesy as it sounds, is to make the most of this time. Go on those NYU trips and get to know this city as much as you can. Practice speaking to locals and learn more about the Czech culture. Open yourself up to new friendships and experiences. I’ve met the most wonderful people here and had the coolest adventures, and I will forever be grateful for my time here in Prague.

 

Tip # 15 Get out of your comfort zone

I know it’s cheesy, but start living for yourself and try new things. The biggest step I took was coming to Prague alone and I’m so grateful for it. Though I was absolutely terrified about making friends, NYU Prague’s program made it really easy, as long as I put myself out there. Besides my assigned roommate becoming one of my best friends here, there are a ton of ways to meet awesome people. The classes are small enough that you have the opportunity to meet everyone, and making friends in class is just smart in general. Best of all, NYU sponsors events throughout the semester so sign up for one, even if you don’t know anyone going. The greatest thing I did here was throw myself into situations where I didn’t know anything, walking out with friends and memories. Try things that might give you a little anxiety at first, they’ll be worth the experience. 

Tip #238: Never ever reject the idea of going out and meeting new people

The semester abroad is a perfect chance to meet new people from all over the world and be yourself with them. Everyone is new here, so the more communicative you are, the more nice you seem to people. Sad though it may sound, everyone will be gone eventually, and you might not meet these people here ever again, so take advantage of time here and have fun as much as you can. Although, don’t forget about your classes and studying in general. Yes, you have a semester abroad, which may seem easier than in New York, but your academic performance still matters, so don’t get too thoughtless. 

 

Tip #111: Embrace every single moment

Prague has been a blast for me despite me being sick a bunch of times, and it’s because of the experiences that I had. I tried things that I never thought that I would. I found a new appreciation of different foods and learned so much about other cultures. Never be afraid to test yourself and your limits. I rode a death swing at the zoo that took me to the top of a cliff. Was I scared for my life? Yes. Would I do it again? No. But, I don’t regret doing it at all. I went to a techno club for the first time, and I talked to random strangers in German. Overall, staying in your dorm and doing what’s familiar isn’t what’s going to create those memorable experiences. It’s doing things that you never expected to do. 

Tip #5131 Don’t take a single moment for granted–even the difficult ones!

I am a strong believer that both the enjoyable and the less enjoyable moments build so much character in the long run. That connection you missed because your flight was delayed will turn out to be a funny memory you laugh at in three months. Even when you are having a bad day, think of the big picture — you’re having a bad day, but you’re having a bad day in Prague of all places. Pretty cool when you think about it.

Tip #1738 It’s not a walk in the park, but it’s so worth it

NYU’s abroad programs are pretty unique in that they maintain the same (if not a greater) level of academic rigor that they have in NYC. Most of my friends who went abroad through other schools in the past didn’t dedicate much of their time to their studies. At NYU Prague, you can’t get away with not putting in the work to do well in your classes — but honestly, that’s a good thing. All of the professors here are so intelligent and have a wealth of unique experiences and perspectives, you would be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t take the time to make the most out of your classes. Don’t get me wrong -– you still have plenty of time to travel and explore, but don’t come to Prague expecting all of your classes to be easy A’s.

Goodbye, Prague. We miss you already.

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