As I sit here writing this, I am filled with so many emotions! It feels surreal that in just a few hours I will embark on my journey to Prague!
I remember when I first applied to this program, I did it the day before the application deadline and completely on a whim in the middle of a snowstorm. What a great way to spend a snow day in Pittsburgh, right? Now, my bags are (almost) packed, and I can hardly believe that the day is here! Tonight, I’ll hop on a plane and begin my travels to Prague!
I am excited to embrace this new experience and learn more about the world – I know this trip will broaden my horizons as a person and a future engineer. My biggest goal for myself is to be present, open-minded, and in the moment as much as possible. I think that is the best thing I can do for myself to grow and gain much as possible, both personally and professionally, from this experience.
While in Prague, I cannot wait to try new foods, take in the breathtaking sights, and immerse myself in the Prague culture. In particular, I am looking forward to observing and experiencing the Czech lifestyle and culture; one that is said to be calm, quiet, and vastly different from our culture in the United States. I think it will be interesting to compare and contrast it to life growing up in rural Western Pennsylvania, as well as my experiences of going to school in the city of Pittsburgh.
This trip will present me with many new experiences, from being immersed in a new culture, navigating a language barrier, guiding myself through a new city, and so much more! While yes, it makes me nervous, I also simply cannot wait to embrace every moment of the journey ahead.
Bye, Pennsylvania! See you soon, Prague!
Swanson School of Engineering 