Major: Architectural Engineer + Masters in Structural Engineering
Class: 2010
Why did you choose to study in Czech Republic?
I wanted to live outside of the U.S. and see how the rest of the world stacked up, and I wanted to explore my Czech, Slovak and Polish ancestry.
Was the experience worthwhile? What did you like the most?
The experience was wholeheartedly worthwhile. The absolute best thing about it was the diversity of nationalities pooled together. My roommate was from South Korea, who I travelled a lot with, and I had friends from Kansas and Montreal. You can learn a lot about a place by socializing, and the International Students Club made that very easy.
What types of classes did you take while abroad?
I took mostly architecture classes, including Architectural History II and History of Interior Design as an elective.
Would you recommend studying abroad?
I HIGHLY recommend studying abroad to other students. You can learn a lot here, but there are some things you can only learn about both yourself and the world by jumping headfirst into the unknown.
What advice do you have for students who are interested?
The most important advice I can give is to obtain your passport as soon as possible and start looking into what paperwork you will need.
Did studying abroad delay your graduation?
No, it did not delay my graduation. That said, as an AE I had to take my specialty courses in the summer via directed study, which I also had to arrange before going abroad.
What do you hope to do after graduation? Did studying abroad influence your career choice?
Upon graduation, I hope to become a full-fledged structural engineer. Studying abroad did not influence my career choice, but it did help me to realize that I can pretty much relocate anywhere without having to worry about getting homesick or being unable to adjust.
Charles' recommendations for studying abroad:
- Make an effort to socialize. The more people you know, the more you will learn and the more fun you will have.
- Try to visit at least one place you've never heard of before.
- Use hostels instead of hotels. They are cheaper and create a good environment to meet people.
- Get a decent digital camera before you leave.
Check out some of Charles' favorite pictures from studying abroad! Visit http://community.webshots.com/user/tgsiege to view his albums.