Studying abroad in Prague through CEA CAPA was a transformative experience that deepened my identity as a first-generation college student expanded my global perspective. What began as an academic opportunity quickly became a personal journey of growth, reflection, and connection. Much of this was due to the incredible internship I was granted at the largest political think tank in the Czech Republic, the Institute for Politics and Society, located in the heart of Prague. Through this opportunity, I authored their international conference report, “Multiple Challenges for Transatlantic Relationships,” which is now published on their website! I also met some incredible friends—who you’ll see in this blog—who taught me so much, including Czech. 

This was a Sunday during the semester at a beautiful parish I discovered during my time in Prague. The parish offered services in Spanish and Portuguese, which made it feel like home since I’m accustomed to attending Spanish-speaking services. I was even able to join the choir that sang during these services. 

This was on the last day of my internship with my colleagues at the Institute for Politics and Society. To my surprise, they planned a thoughtful farewell to thank me for my hard work, which included a fun and memorable outing to a glow-in-the-dark mini golf course. It was a heartwarming way to end my time there and reminded me of the meaningful connections I had built during my internship. 

This was an excursion to Český Krumlov toward the end of the semester, generously sponsored by CEA CAPA. I was accompanied by two other students in the program—my close friends, Italia and Elizabeth. We climbed the iconic sight tower, where we were met with a breathtaking view of the town below. Český Krumlov felt like something out of a fairytale, with its charming streets, colorful rooftops, and a storybook atmosphere. 

Our first excursion to Karlovy Vary introduced me to the richness of Czech culture through its healing springs and cuisine. Later, my Environmental Ethics class visited a sustainability museum, where we engaged in meaningful discussions on climate responsibility in a global context. These moments pushed me to think critically and empathetically, both in and outside the classroom.

This was our first excursion, and it was to Karlovy Vary, a town famous for its natural spring waters. Behind us is a well-known hotel where celebrities like Jackie Chan have stayed. Karlovy Vary offers a unique experience with its healing springs, charming atmosphere, and distinctive local cuisine. 

This is the Mercadito, a small section of Spanish foods tucked inside a store owned by a Brazilian woman. It was the only place I found in Prague that sold Spanish ingredients and snacks. Located inside a shopping center in Nové Město, this hidden gem quickly became one of my favorite spots. I loved it because it allowed me to bring home the familiar flavors that reminded me of where I come from. 

What made my time abroad truly special were the moments that reminded me of my home. I found comfort in Mercadito, a small shop selling Spanish foods, and in a beautiful parish where I joined the Spanish-speaking choir. I discovered how deeply connected I felt to my roots, even in a foreign country. Sharing Vietnamese-inspired dumplings, visiting the Lennon Wall, and dining beneath Café Savoy’s 1890s ceiling reminded me of Prague’s cultural richness and my own capacity to adapt and embrace the unfamiliar. 

On this day, my Environmental Ethics class through CEA CAPA went on a field trip to a sustainability museum. This visit served as our class for the day, offering us a unique hands-on learning experience. At the end of the visit, we gathered on the rooftop to take a photo and capture the memory of such a beautiful and enriching day. 

On my final evening, I took a sunset boat tour with my closest friend. As we admired the glowing city, I felt a deep sense of pride. This once-in-a-lifetime experience reminded me of how far I’ve come—not just geographically, but personally. I began this journey with uncertainty and returned with confidence, gratitude, and purpose. 

This was the day before I returned to the U.S., and I was joined by Teresa, a local friend I made during my time in Prague. She suggested we eat at Café Savoy before I left, as it’s known for its stunning Neo-Renaissance ceiling dating back to the 1890s and is considered one of the most visually charming spots in the city. Here, I’m enjoying a very traditional Czech lunch snack, accompanied by a refreshing chamomile iced tea. 

Prague taught me that I belong in any space I step into. This experience not only reaffirmed my academic goals but also reminded me of the value of resilience, culture, and meaningful connection—lessons I will carry with me always. 

This was me enjoying my final day as a tourist before heading back home. On this day, I set out to explore as many of the popular spots in Prague as possible, including the famous Lennon Wall. It was beautiful to see the long wall covered in vibrant, colorful art—a powerful expression of peace, freedom, and creativity. 

This was just hours before heading home, when my closest friend and I took a sunset boat tour to admire the beautiful scenery of Prague one last time. It’s hard to put into words the emotions I felt in that moment—gratitude, awe, and a deep sense of accomplishment. As a first-generation Student, completing this once-in-a-lifetime experience meant so much more than just studying abroad. It was a reminder of how far I’ve come and how much more is possible.