On Thursday, August 6, The Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS), and U.S. Embassy in Prague organised an online Welcome to Czechia webinar for U.S. students in cooperation with Erasmus Student Network Czech Republic.
The webinar was designed for students from the United States who are preparing to study at Czech universities, as well as for those still considering Czechia as their future study destination. As this was the first event of its kind, the aim was simple: to give students a practical introduction to what they can expect before and after arriving in Czechia and to help them feel more prepared and welcome.
The session opened with short welcome remarks from the organizers. On behalf of DZS, the webinar was introduced by the Head of Study in Czechia Department, Bára Křenek Sobotková, followed by Monica Davis,
the Deputy Cultural Attaché, who joined the event on behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Prague. Before the main presentations began, participants took part in a short interactive Kahoot warm-up moderated by Stephanie Parascandolo, a former Study in Czechia Ambassador from the United States. Her involvement brought an important peer perspective to the session and helped students start the webinar in a more informal and engaging way.
The programme then focused on practical information useful for incoming students. The U.S. Embassy section introduced topics relevant for U.S. citizens living and studying abroad, while DZS provided a general overview of studying and living in Czechia, including first steps before and after arrival, healthcare, accommodation, useful contacts, and where to seek support. The student life perspective was complemented by Zuzanna Joanna Łapot-Myszewska, who introduced ESN activities and the ways international students can connect with the local student community after arrival.
The final part of the webinar was dedicated to questions from students. The Q&A showed that practical topics are especially important before arrival, with many questions focusing on residence-related matters, housing, and working while studying. Students could submit their questions in the Teams chat throughout the webinar and later ask questions directly during the live Q&A section.
The webinar served as a pilot format for future online welcome activities aimed at supporting incoming international students before they arrive in Czechia.
Want to stay informed about our upcoming events? Please register for the Czechia Alumni programme and receive our quarterly newsletter.
You will find the recording HERE.