This trip has undoubtedly been one I’ll remember for the rest of my life. It was easily the most unique experience I’ve ever had, and I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to learn so much and make these memories.
On my final day in Prague, I slept in a little bit before waking up around noon and packing most of my things. I knew I’d spend the night taking in every last bit of the trip, so I was glad to do my packing earlier than later. I then met up with some friends and went ice skating at an ice rink a short walk away. It was only my second time skating, so I wasn’t the greatest by any means, but I still had so much fun. We then went on the dinner cruise as a whole group, and it was a really cool experience. The food they provided was delicious, and the views of the city were unmatched (even despite the rain). The live music they had was another wonderful touch, as it created a serene ambiance. After the dinner cruise, I went with a few friends to a souvenir shop to buy a couple gifts for friends and family; I got a really nice shirt for my grandmother and a few candies to enjoy with friends before we parted ways. I ended up taking a short nap despite planning to pull an all-nighter, but then was woken up to go explore the city one last time with friends. We found a gyro spot and ended up befriending the cashier, who was also a study abroad student but through a different university. It was quite a nice night, and despite being sad about leaving, I was ready to go home.
Even though I am not a hospitality major, I still got so much out of this trip. This trip really highlighted the role history plays in the development of a country. I’ve been abroad before, and I’ve even done a study abroad previous to this one, but the focus Prague places on maintaining their historical charm while also keeping with the times is just flat-out impressive. Learning about the hospitality and tourism was very different than my major, international relations, but this trip showed me how they really go hand-in-hand. I think the part that translated the best for me was the historical factor. I know I’ve written a lot about it throughout my past few blogs, but that’s because it has really stuck with me. I believe the key to creating lasting, mutually beneficial relationships is understanding the other party’s history and moving forward with that in mind. Hence, history plays a large role in my field of study as well as in tourism.
As this isn’t my first study abroad, I had an idea of what to expect going into it all. Not everyone has this same experience though, so understandably tips from those who know what to expect can mean the world. One of the most helpful things I was told before I went on my first study abroad was to keep a very open mind. Different countries are home to different cultures, often ones that are nothing like what we’re used to. Keeping an open mind cultivates learning and understanding of the different cultures, which is extremely important. Another helpful piece of advice is to take a leap of faith. Go in blind (within safe reason, of course); who knows what you might discover. Study abroad experiences are wonderful opportunities to learn more about your destination, about the world as a whole, and even about yourself as well. Go do that thing you’re anxious about, or take that risk you never imagined taking. The path it reveals may not be the one you expect, but it could change your life for the better.
Again, I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity, and I just want to thank both Professor Dodge and Professor Murray for all they did to make this trip as special as it was.