UNYP interviewed one of their international students in Prague

Three smiling students sitting in front of city landscape

This semester, the University of New York in Prague was happy to welcome together with new bachelor degree-seeking students also almost 40 visiting students. We love having visiting students on our campus and to making new friends from all over the world. Over the last two semesters, our students have even created an International Friends Club, where they make sure that all our students feel welcomed and integrated into the UNYP community.

Enjoy the best student life while studying abroad at UNYP

Elishka Pierce, a visiting student from the Northern Arizona University, has been living her study abroad life in Prague to the max. We see her at every event, she puts in the effort to make as many friends as possible and we think this is exactly what studying abroad is about. We asked Elishka a few questions about her life at UNYP in Prague.

What is your favorite thing about UNYP and Prague?

My favorite thing about Prague is probably how much there is to do! No matter where you are in the city, there is always a great restaurant, cafe, event, or park to explore, and beautiful architecture to admire. My favorite thing about UNYP is definitely how personal a community it is. I do not feel like I am just one unknown student out of thousands of people, because UNYP’s culture is very close-knit and relationship-oriented. I also really like how diverse UNYP’s student body is, in terms of different nationalities and cultures, because I get to learn from other people’s perspectives and different life experiences.

Group of students sat on grass next to university branded tent

Could you describe a day in your life in Prague?

A day in my life in Prague, depending on the day, usually begins with eating breakfast on our balcony or with my flatmate before I head over to UNYP for class. After class, I will often stop at a cafe for something to drink or go with a friend to lunch. Then I will spend a few hours working on my school assignments and readings before cooking dinner, and if it is a Sunday, watching a Sparta Florbal game! That is definitely one of my favorite activities.

Students sat on sunny patio with river in background

What would be your 5 tips for classmates who consider studying abroad at UNYP?

My five tips for those looking to study abroad at UNYP would be to first, realize that classes here are three hours long (unlike twice-a-week classes in the US) so prepare yourself for that. Even though it may be hard at first, you will be grateful for the extra days off!

Second, I highly recommend getting to know your professors. Many of them are actively involved in the fields that they are teaching about, so they are very knowledgeable! Third, get involved and take advantage of the activities that UNYP offers. I know that people always say to get involved, but I will say it again because UNYP has some interesting clubs, events, and partnerships that will most definitely enrich your time here. Fourth, try to talk to as many people as you can.

As I mentioned before, UNYP has students from dozens of countries, and with this comes a variety of different life stories, ideas, and conversations that you probably would not get at a US university. I would recommend talking to anyone; you can, so that you can learn from them and share your own experiences as well. These kinds of deep connections and relationships are the exact reason why I came to UNYP.

Lastly, the fifth tip I have to offer is that you get out what you put in. If you come to UNYP with the desire to learn for the sake of growing and increasing your knowledge, then that is what you will get. To receive the most out of this experience, try to be an active student, learner, and friend who is driven by curiosity and willingness to learn! In addition, for a bonus tip, do not forget that you are in the heart of Europe! There are so many incredible places to visit and explore while you are here, so try to take advantage of the location and the beauty of this country.

We cannot wait for more visiting students to come next semester. Spring in Prague is the most beautiful season, with sunny weather and blooming trees. If you are reading this and hesitant about studying abroad in Prague, we encourage you to apply to UNYP in Spring 2022.

Learn more about University of New York in Prague