Rowen's Exchange to Anglo-American University | Czech Republic
Where to start..I love Prague and I am so very thankful that I was able to study at the Anglo-American University (AAU) there. I͛m not sure how many people choose to study there however if you consider it an option, then I implore you to go there. It is by far one of the most beautiful cities I have had the chance to study in. After my exchange semester in Sweden was coming to an end I had decided that I wasn͛t quite ready to come back to Australia (probably would͛ve stayed if I didn͛t have to finish my degree) so I, with the ever amazing assistance of Jeannette, organised an exchange semester at AAU. Best. Decision. Ever.
The university is housed in an old palace. Yes, I did say palace. It is located very close to the Prague castle and a short walk from Charles Bridge so once your classes are done you can head off to see some amazing sights but be ready to fight your way through tour groups and Segway tours. You will learn to dislike Segway tours very much but that͛s ok, you will fit in with the locals! The classes I had at AAU were excellent and the tuition even better. In class discussion is encouraged and the teachers are approachable and very happy to have discussions and debates with you. It was easily my favourite part of the semester there.
Student social life is interesting as there are a few international students that attend however there is a large majority of American students who take a bit of time to get to know. They band together however if you͛re persistent then you will crack them. The Czech Republic is a breathtaking country and everything is easily reachable by the cheap student buses if you feel like exploring outside Prague..which you should as it is beautiful. There is a vibrant and rich history within the country and if you can explore the smaller surrounding towns you will meet some friendly locals and you may even be given free tastings of local spirits by proud hoteliers. If you can, try and learn some Czech before you go and keep practicing while you are there as I can promise you that the locals will give you a far better time if they can see that you are interested in their culture and them instead of being ͚just another tourist͛. You will get better service and a better experience. You can even catch the student buses into other countries too. Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Poland and Slovenia are all just across the border so exploring is incredibly easy. Anyone can use the student buses, it͛s not just for students.
There are often cheap flights further abroad too so you can get to the UK for not much either. You can even go and see the Bone Church..spooky! A strong art culture exists in the Czech Republic such as classical music, paintings, religious art, literature and philosophy and you should dive right into it all if that͛s your thing. It may even change you and help you to appreciate the finer things in life and leave the disposable modern consumerist mindset behind. If you are more concerned about partying and seeing festivals well, Prague͛s got you covered there. If you love heavy metal, classical or dance you͛ll find it. It͛s not all high-brow snooty noses there.
You will discover cheap foods, drinks and probably develop a love for fantastic beer too. Mostly because it is fantastic and cheap. How cheap? I could order a main meal (huge size), a 500ml beer and a dessert for about $15AUD. It was good too, really good. Choosing to go to AAU in Prague was such as surprise as I had never really thought much about the Czech Republic before but I am a changed and thankful man as it quickly became a new favourite, and a place that I want to return to again.
- Rowen studied abroad at the Anglo-American University in Prague, Czech Republic
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