Czech Republic – Jasmine
Student: Jasmine
Course: Bachelor of Laws
Program: Short-term exchange 2024
This program was an unforgettable experience – a perfect mix of learning, cultural exploration, and personal growth. The weekend trips to different cities were a major highlight, offering unique insights and incredible memories. Everything was well-organized, and the local staff were always helpful. A small suggestion would be to add more cultural activities as optional choices and remind students to carry Euro coins for public toilets. Overall, I’m incredibly grateful for this experience and would highly recommend it to others.
Describe the city you were living in: the landscape, the culture, the weather etc.
Brno is a beautiful and vibrant city that perfectly blends history with modern life. Its stunning architecture, lively squares, and cozy cafés make it a wonderful place to explore. The culture is rich, with friendly locals, traditional food, and a strong appreciation for history and the arts. The weather added to the charm – crisp winter air, occasional snowfall, and cozy indoor spaces made every day special. Compared to Australia, everything felt more compact, with an efficient tram system that made getting around so easy. Walking through Brno’s streets felt like stepping into a storybook!
Immersing myself in the local culture was an incredible part of the journey. The folklore dancing workshop was an unexpected favorite – I loved learning traditional moves and experiencing local music firsthand. Socially, I connected with amazing people through group activities and shared experiences. While many optional activities were sports-based, I found my own way to explore culture – watching an opera in Prague, which turned out to be a highlight of my trip. If I could add one suggestion, it would be to include more cultural options like theatre plays or local films in the program.
How did you spend your weekends?
One of the biggest highlights of my experience was the weekend trips to cities like Budapest, Prague, and Vienna. Each place had something unique to offer – the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament, the cultural depth of Prague’s NGO visits, and the inspiring UN tour in Vienna. Traveling with a group made these experiences even more exciting. The Punkva Caves, in particular, stood out as a magical experience – our group had exclusive access, making it a peaceful, surreal adventure. These trips not only allowed me to explore different cultures, histories, and cuisines but also created lifelong memories.
How did you decide which study abroad opportunity to do?
Deciding to go on this study tour was an easy choice – I wanted an experience that would broaden my perspective, enhance my studies, and allow me to explore different cultures firsthand. The opportunity to visit multiple European cities while engaging in both academic and cultural experiences made this program stand out. The mix of historical site visits, institutional tours, and cultural immersion activities provided the perfect balance of learning and adventure. Looking back, it was the best decision I could have made, and I would highly recommend it to any student considering an overseas program.
What's your one piece of advice for a student who is preparing to study abroad? How should they prepare?
My biggest advice? Embrace every opportunity and be open to new experiences! Whether it's joining a cultural workshop, trying a new food, or attending an optional activity, every moment adds value to your journey. Academically, I’d suggest taking notes during visits to institutions and NGOs – you’ll gain insights that will enhance your studies long after the trip ends. Also, carry some Euro coins – trust me, you’ll need them for public restrooms! Most importantly, be present and make the most of every experience – this program will fly by, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and valuable lessons that will stay with you forever.
How will your trip add value to your studies ie. Did you gain credit? Was it to increase your employability?
This program provided an incredible academic experience by exposing me to real-world applications of law, policy, and governance. Visiting institutions like the Hungarian Parliament, the UN in Vienna, and NGOs in Prague deepened my understanding of global issues and the challenges faced by different communities. The NGO visits in Prague were particularly insightful, offering a firsthand perspective on how laws operate in practice versus how they are written in books. Engaging in discussions with professionals and seeing how different countries address legal and social issues enriched my academic knowledge in ways that a classroom alone could never provide.
This experience was truly life-changing – a perfect mix of learning, adventure, and personal growth. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a transformative journey!