Czech In: Blog 01
a NEW HOME
A reflection on my journey and first few days in Prague, Czechia.
Where am I now?:
I cannot believe that I am typing these words… I am living in Prague. Almost exactly two weeks ago, I boarded a flight in New York City with my sights set for beginning my study experience in Prague.
The Airport:
As I waited in the terminal to board, the TV screens showed images of what was happening in Washington, D.C. One by one, passengers going to and from different destinations halted for a brief moment to take in what was happening.
Naturally, I was nervous to leave for my journey but now I was reminded of the greater mission of programs like mine in helping to bridge diverse perspectives to create a more peaceful and understanding world. As if these news stories were not chaos enough, we soon received word that our flight was delayed (not once, but 3 times!) This delay resulted in a long and unexpected layover in Amsterdam.
Passing through each security check point, amazement is not a big enough word to capture the tone of voice of the airport clerks who helped guide my journey. “Prague” they would say, “but what are YOU going to do in Prague?” This amazement didn’t cease at the US border, but instead followed me to the environment of Schiphol airport where the 5+ hours layover provided ample opportunity to not only squeeze in a graduate school interview (with one of my top choices btw no pressure), but also observe (for a very brief moment), the impact of COVID in Amsterdam. Prior to boarding my flight in the U.S, Amsterdam’s COVID protocol required that I test negative even as a transit passenger. This no nonsense attitude proved true in person where I was advised that the only way to board my next flight was to stay in the Airport and not venture out during my layover. Around me, passengers made sure to observe social distance rules while maintaining contact with family and even sparking random conversations with fellow travellers. Due to these circumstances and a desperate need for sleep, I decided to check into Yotel Air, a unique lodging with rooms inspired by the aircraft cabins of planes. After some sleep and a wonderful interview, I was finally ready to leave Amsterdam for Prague.
On Saturday, I landed in Prague and was promptly greeted by very friendly and warm people- save the chaos about retrieving my forgotten bag. My luggage stuck in Amsterdam, and the steps I had to take to obtain it involved my broken synthesis of Czech words I had picked up through duolingo lessons.
Nevertheless, animated hand gestures, facial expressions, and a phone call proved useful and my bag was found and safely returned to me eventually. Meanwhile, I spent my first few days in isolation- quarantining as a precaution due to the global pandemic. Then a new week was ushered in, and I was able to complete a PCR Covid Test which was negative.
This was the green light to begin life in Prague!
Ready, Set, Go..
And so dear reader, I sit in my bed in my beautiful apartment in this city I will be calling home for the next months. And guess what, that lovely school I interviewed with while crammed in a tiny Yotel Air hotel room decided to offer me a spot in their fully funded MD/PhD program!!!!
I am humbled to have this opportunity to help bridge cultures and perspectives and thank Prague for welcoming me.
