Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Prague: Enter Europe's Fairy Tale - Collegium Hieronymi Pragensis Past Review

By (History of Art and Architecture, Harvard University) for

Study Abroad Programs in Czech Republic

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely - it was life-changing.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The more you'll put in, the more you'll get out of it. Take Czech language seriously, and you will actually come out with a decent knowledge of the language. Take opportunities and push the limits - the school is flexible to accommodate your needs.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Very friendly, cooperative, and informed staff that is eager to help you with any questions and suggestions. Also very personal and overall amazing experience.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I had very strict dietary restriction and both the school and the hotel staff went out of their way to accommodate my needs.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Trips to Dresden and Kutna Hora were picturesque and memorable. My art history class had a trip every week, and I saw many beautiful places in Prague.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

It was safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Beer costs less than coffee and water. Still... Tesco is around the corner from hotel where you'll be staying and it is the best place for groceries.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

Czech language is a requirement and useful tool on the streets.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I liked the small-sized classes and numerous trips including those that I made throughout Europe due to the very central location of Prague in Europe.
* What could be improved?
  • I think academics can be more demanding and stimulating. More collaborative projects would be beneficial to bring the entire school together.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Know how to plan your travels and made sure to experience Prague as an insider.