I was abroad in Prague for the fall 2019 semester, and I have thought about it every day since! A year later and I'm still singing a Bohemian Rhapsody about it; I've turned into that girl who's always starting conversations with "when I was abroad …"

It was an incredible experience unlike any other and exceeded all of my expectations. I adored exploring the city and learned so much about Czech history, literature, and culture. I had the loveliest host family; they really made me feel like I was part of their real family, and it was incredible to have the practical experience of cultural norms rather than just learning about them in the classroom. We lived on the northern outskirts of the city, making my commute to school around 45 minutes, but every minute was worth it because I got to explore different districts and see so many cool landmarks that way. The professors were awesome—they all had firsthand experience with the historical events we learned about—and I still keep in touch with my classmates. My favorite part was definitely the independent study project, where I researched underground literature from the communist era and interviewed some really impressive people who helped create and distribute it! Another thing I loved was being there for the thirtieth anniversary of the Velvet Revolution (the fall of communist rule) and making day trips to places like the Bone Church and Terezin. If you're in search of an adventure in a super cool city where you can learn a lot about art and history, this program is for you!

Prague and the greater Czech Republic provided some of the best days of my life, new experiences, adjustments, lessons, friendships, and family. Our schedule was full to the gills, with too many amazing and optional performances, gallaries, exhibits,

and showcases to attend paid for by the program! My commute each morning and night to my host family was a quiet tram ride weaving through the most beautiful city just outside my windows. My host family welcomed me into their routine as if I were a part of their family - I can't wait to go back and visit them. I can't recommend a small program or this programs staff enough, we all enjoyed each other's company so much. The small size also allowed us so much fun flexibility for learning spaces and course direction based on individual interests, and I was so lucky to meet those I did. Once we were sent home the online courses were good and it was nice to see everyone virtually, but the experiential learning method can not be replicated online.. so yeah, don't plan to study abroad during a global pandemic. But 100% chose this program if you want a once in a lifetime experience with great people, true cultural exposure that doesn't make you feel like a tourist the whole time, and fun once this pandemic ends. Best program ever - experiential learning means exploring and having a good time out in the city as part of the learning, unlike any other programs out there!

I did this program in the fall of 2019. This is a study abroad program unlike any other, and attracts a small cohort (<30) of dedicated students who are invested in the subjects of art and social change, as well as their intersections. It is best for

students looking to be fully immersed in a new culture, and truly live and travel like locals. One drawback of the program was that the scheduling was inconsistent at times, often due to travel. Also it may be more appealing to students in the arts or creative fields. The two main strengths of this program are as such: 1) The homestay. I was nervous about the homestay at first, but the homestay ended up being my favorite part of the experience. I adored my host family, as did the other members of my cohort! The family truly treated me as one of their own, and provided me with my own room as well as meals and other items. Being integrated into a Czech family taught me a lot about local culture, and also provided a space for me to practice my new language skills. I still message my host mom and sister all the time, and am planning on hosting them the next time they vacation to the United States. 2) The teachers/mentors Because our cohort is so small, we had the unique opportunity to work closely with Czech professionals from different artistic and social programs. I cannot speak for the other electives, but the creative writing elective afforded us the opportunity to study under a bestselling contemporary Czech author, and through her we met many creatives from the Czech literary scene.

This program is uniquely immersive. The program staff, particularly the director Sarah Brock, have so many connections all over the country. It is an amazing opportunity to learn from and alongside leading artists, writers, and professors in the nation.

History is still alive in this country and the SIT program allows the students to live within it for a semester. The location of the school is great. The program begins with more guidance in terms of navigating the city, city life, and food and then relaxes to allow students to explore and live more independently.