Why did I choose Charles University?

I chose CU for many reasons. To mention just a couple - it's located in Prague. At the beginning of my master's studies, I spent one semester here in Prague and completely fell in love with the city. From the impressive historical monuments, beautiful parks, and green spaces around every corner to the open-minded, welcoming Czech and international people who live here. It's no wonder it is the sixth most popular tourist destination (in the world!) and one of the best student cities in Europe! Another reason is that CU is the best and most presigeous Czech university. It is also one of the oldest universities in Europe, and with each year, it's becoming more and more international, ranking higher among the world universities.

What do I like about my studies in Czechia?

The Czech Republic has almost everything one could ask for. If you are a nature-loving person, you'll have the beautiful Czech countryside; if you prefer active trips, you can hike through wonderful national and natural parks, and if you like more relaxing walks, there are many greeneries and parks (sometimes with lakes) for a simple stroll. If you like history, you'll love it here, since Czechia is one of the most historical countries in Europe, especially its capital, Prague! Fun fact: Prague Castle is the third biggest castle in the world according to the Guinness World Record! :) Moreover, if you're a people person, there are many social events where you can enjoy the company of native Czechs and cosmopolitan international people alike. If you're an animal person, you will be pleased to know that it is an animal-loving country, especially if you're a dog person: dogs are allowed almost everywhere! If you're a beer lover, well, then you already know where to go. The only thing Czechia is missing is the sea. But do not fear, that is why their favourite summer destination is Croatia (my native country) so there is an excellent, fast transport services to get there. Whith that, you can have the perfect summer holiday!

Why did I choose Charles University?

I cannot say that I chose Charles University at first. I did choose the research team URRlab (Urban and Regional Laboratory) to collaborate with and later do my PhD under the mentorship of the head of the research team. Furthermore, qualities such as prestige, quality mentorship, scholarship and employment opportunities, freedom of research, and the possibility to be engaged in diverse activities not only at the Geographical Institute but also at the University convinced me to decide to pursue my PhD at Charles University.

What do I like about my studies in Czechia?

I enjoy both my studies and free time in Prague. I can always find interesting and English-friendly events and inspiring people to spend time with.

Why did I choose Charles University?

Since the beginning of my law studies, I have had an interest in human rights, international law, and international organizations. What I then learned during my semester abroad allowed me to begin with my professional career in international relations. I started working for higher education institutions in the area of academic cooperation and as a aliaison with embassies. All of this led me to pursue my graduate studies abroad as well. My first contact with Czech culture and my professional goal of working in international cooperation made me choose Charles University, specifically the Master's in Geopolitical Studies. Not all universities offer this programme and, being immersed in the field of international higher education for some time, I knew that CU is considered one of the top universities in Europe. Additionally, the beauty of Prague, which I was already familiar with, made me imagine what my experience living here would be like even before submitting my application.

What do I like about my studies in Czechia?

There are many aspects to consider. First, the Czech Republic is a safe country; I feel secure here. Second, living in Prague is totally a positive experience that allows me to connect not only with the local culture but also with people from all around the world. Just with my classmates, we form a small international community which allows us to see the concept from different perspectives. My classmates come from Germany, Norway, Spain, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Hungary, Colombia, US, or UK and getting to know them all has been a great experience. This, coupled with the opportunities I have had as a student at CU, make my studies here really worth it. For example, one of my professors is the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to NATO, and so to complement the topics covered in class, we were able to visit the headquarters in Brussels. Last but not least, the geographical location of country right in the centre of Europe allows me to travel and explore the continent easily. In conclusion, living in a country with so much history, culture, and wonderful nature makes everything more special to me.

Why did I choose Charles University?

Charles University was an obvious choice for me. Not only does it exist in the beautiful city of Prague (and Plzeň, Hradec Králové, and Poděbrady), it also provides a respected - and affordable - education. I applied to the Liberal Arts and Humanities programme because, while vast in scope, I wanted to be immersed in several different fields of study in a true renaissance fashion. While it was daunting at first, studying anthropology, history, sociology, and psychology all at once yielded a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness among seemingly disparate fields. Aside from the programme itself, Charles University is also a highly ranked institution with a number of follow-up master’s programs that I intend to pursue after graduation.

What do I like about my studies in Czechia?

Prague is a great host. By day, the city is a gorgeous, walkable, and culturally diverse place, with plenty of green space and cafés. By night, Prague’s cultural scene comes to life, with home-grown techno hosted at several venues throughout the city. I would say that life outside of university is equally as enriching as the academic and there is never a shortage of activities to do or hobbies to pursue. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the safety of Prague and the ease of living in the city. I am not afraid to come home in the late hours of the night or early hours of the morning, still by a reliable public transportation.

When I’m not studying or engaging in the cultural activities, I have a part time job as an English teacher, made possible due to the flexibility of my study programme. Having a job is unquestionably a benefit of studying at CU and it is quite common among the students.

Why did I choose Charles University?

In the last year of high school I still wasn’t sure about what I wanted to study. I had 2 completely different ideas in my mind – pursuing mathematics back home or exploring medicine abroad.

I started looking up universities that offered the course of medicine in English and that’s when the Czech Republic and Charles University in particular came up.

After some research, I realised the university was highly ranked (higher than the ones back home). Within a few weeks, I decided that this was what I really wanted to do. A couple months later, I took the entrance exam, visited Prague for the first time and fell in love with it. And now, here I am. The parks, beautiful monuments, and the feeling of safety while walking around the city were the final points that convinced me.

What do I like about my studies in Czechia?

My favorite part about living in Prague is really how safe it is here. Whether it’s 2PM or 2AM, Prague is a lot safer than most of the other cities I’ve been to. Additionally, the expat community is huge. My colleagues are all from different countries so we get to come in contact with people from very different backgrounds and cultures.

Another great thing is the fact that there's always something happening or to do – from parks and gardens to go to during the day, to loads of bars and clubs to choose from for an amazing night out. Plus, if we want to spend a day in nature or go for a weekend-getaway, all it takes is a 1-2h trip by bus to get to the mountains or other Czech cities!

The student benefits are also worth mentioning - we get the best discounts, including access to all public transport in Prague for 5 Euros per month and the chance to visit other cities for a very low price – like getting to Berlin for 11 Euros!

1) What are the responsibilities?

It always depends on the particular ambassador. In general, student ambassadors represent university on social media and at recruitment events, they are involved with the university PR team, and work with international applicants and various stakeholders. Within the university itself, they mostly work with international students, listen to their needs, and are responsible for events aiming at integrating the international and local academic communities. Regardless of their particular role, student ambassador is expected to be a reliable partner of the university and complete the tasks, he or she is assigned to.

2) What is the time commitment?

Being a student ambassador is not a time consuming role in particular. It is much more about being in the right place at the right time. There are usually three to four meetings with the coordinators per year and many regular activities, including social media management and event coordination. Besides, there are plenty of non-obligatory events available for everyone to join. The rest is always up to the ambassador, which activities he or she chooses to fulfil.

3) What are the requirements?

Apart from the enthusiasm, we are looking for full-degree students enrolled in any of the English-taught study programmes at our university. Applicants from all faculties in Prague, Pilsen, and Hradec Kralove are welcomed! Since ambassadors are expected to share their own experience, we are looking for students in at least their second year of study yet not exceeding the standard length of study. Communication language required from all our ambassadors (apart from their mother tongue) is English. Any other relevant information or skills are welcomed but optional.

4) Is there any reward?

Every semester, each student ambassador can be awarded a symbolic scholarship according to the tasks he or she completes. Ambassadors also receive a Certificate of Recognition at the end of their involvement that serves as an official proof of their prestigious position at the university.

5) How does one apply?

We are happy that you are interested to become a member of our team! Every summer, we recruit new ambassadors by sending the call out to your inbox. Students can also be nominated by the faculty. Afterwards, you just fill in the application form and we'll get back to you by the end of September. With the selected candidates, we might conduct a short interview to discuss the mutual cooperation. For any questions regarding the Student Ambassador Programme, feel free to contact the team leader, Martin Hanker, at .