I came to Czechia from Hong Kong in 2010, inspired by the film Kolya and its poetic depiction of Prague. I started my journey at the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno, followed by studies at HAMU in Prague, and FUD UJEP in Usti nad Labem. I am currently completing my second PhD at the University of West Bohemia. Czech higher education impressed me with its respect for independent artistic voices and the freedom to experiment across disciplines. The mentorship, focused training, and openness to technology-driven and interdisciplinary work allowed me to integrate my Hong Kongese heritage with European musical traditions. Today, as a lecturer and composer, I continue to perform internationally while contributing to Czech cultural life. Czechia has become my home, offering both artistic freedom and a supportive community, and I encourage future students to come with curiosity, patience, and openness to fully embrace the opportunities here.

Barry Wan

I have been fascinated by the cultural and historical heritage of Czechia since childhood. Growing up, I travelled extensively with my family, which sparked my curiosity about Central Europe and ultimately led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and EU Studies at Metropolitan University Prague. During my studies, I began an internship at the Embassy of Bulgaria in Prague, where I witnessed firsthand the importance of strengthening relations between Bulgaria and Czechia - two Slavic nations with deep historical ties. This experience shaped my understanding of diplomacy and the vital role of bridging perspectives between states. After graduation, I chose to remain in Czechia and explore the corporate sector, joining SAP in Prague. This step expanded my outlook beyond public institutions and into global business environments. My journey then led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Culture, Communication and Globalization with a sustainability focus at Aalborg University, which then led me to the carbon sector and the growing importance of the green and blue economy. I spent five years in Czechia which shaped me both personally and professionally. It strengthened my commitment to international cooperation and gave me the opportunity to build a multidisciplinary career across diplomacy, corporate strategy, and sustainability. My advice to future students: embrace a multidisciplinary approach. It will broaden your horizons, sharpen your mindset, and empower you to build meaningful international networks.

Reneta Georgieva

I arrived in Czechia with a clear goal: to master Cybersecurity and take that expertise back home. However, the reality of living here quickly reshaped my ambitions. Within just three months, I transitioned from a student to a professional at an influential company - an opportunity that would have been a distant dream in my home country. Beyond the technical skills, Czechia pushed me out of my comfort zone. Immersing myself in a new culture and building a diverse network molded my personality in ways I never anticipated. I found a country where the professional opportunities in my field are vast and the community is incredibly welcoming. What started as a temporary academic journey has evolved into a career-defining experience. My advice to future students? Don't just study the curriculum; embrace the massive professional landscape this country offers. The doors are open - you just have to walk through them.

Kenan Fejzić