【Article by GAO,SIAO-CI】

Esther Chen, currently studying at NCCU's Department of Slavic Languages and Literature , spent a semester (September 2023–February 2024) on exchange at Charles University in the Czech Republic. Reflecting on her time there, Esther described it as "the freest period of my life, like an adventure of pure freedom."

Meeting Different Classrooms at Charles University

Esther, who double-majors in Slavic Languages and Diplomacy, initially wanted to study in Russia but shifted to the Czech Republic due to safety concerns. She chose it for its affordable tuition, living costs, and scholarships for Taiwanese students and its central location for exploring Europe.

During her semester at Charles University, Esther took several courses, including political science, which she had always been interested in. However, the highlight was "Introduction to Czech Studies," tailored for international students.

Esther also noted that the class schedule differences at Charles University, where sessions last 90 to 120 minutes without breaks. Although initially tiring, she found the longer sessions helped her focus better than the three-hour classes in Taiwan.

The "Masks" and True Hearts of Czechs

Esther faced significant challenges as an exchange student, particularly the language barrier upon arriving in the Czech Republic. A memorable experience at the supermarket, where a cashier gave her a "cold stare," caused her to feel hurt and question whether she had experienced racial discrimination. However, a German friend reassured her that this demeanor is typical in Eastern Europe and not explicitly aimed at Asians.

By learning Czech, Esther gradually built connections withlocals and integrated into the culture. A unique opportunity arose in her class when the teacher took them to a public square for an assignment to ask strangers for directions. She gathered the courage to approach strangers and ask for directions. To her surprise, most Czechs were very friendly and patiently offered her guidance.

Observing Gender Equality on the Volleyball Court

As a passionate sports enthusiast and volleyball player at NCCU, Esther observed notable differences in gender equality between Taiwan and the Czech Republic through her volleyball classes.

Esther noticed that gender norms in the Czech Republic were more "open" than in Taiwan. Her Czech volleyball class had no rigid rules, such as men being barred from blocking or women needing to jump from behind the 3-meter line. She believed this difference arose from Czech society's lesser focus on physical differences, allowing both genders to showcase their skills. Czech-style Nightlife and Socializing Esther surprised many with her answer about after-school entertainment: nightclubs. In the Czech Republic, nightclubs are seen as casual hangouts rather than disreputable venues, as in Taiwan. "Europeans treat nightclubs as regular venues," she noted, highlighting a cultural difference.

Additionally, the Czech Republic's 24-hour public transportation is safe and convenient. Trams run until 2 or 3 a.m., allowing hassle-free late-night outings. This lifestyle, unthinkable in Taiwan, is part of everyday life in the Czech Republic.

"Drinking More Than Eating": Esther's Take on Czech Cuisine

Esther described Czech food as "more about drinking than eating," finding it somewhat bland and meat-heavy, with dishes like Goulash lacking flavor. However, she had a positive impression of Czech beverages, especially beer, which she found cheap and high-quality: "Beer is very cheap... So, drinking more than eating—that's my impression of Czech food."

"Deep Travel" in Europe: Experiencing Authentic Cities

During her exchange in the Czech Republic, Esther's favorite place was the small town of Tábor, which she felt offered a more authentic experience than Prague. She appreciated the historic buildings and museums, enhancing her understanding of Czech culture.

She was struck by Kraków's well-preserved architecture and the local cuisine in Poland. However, her visit to Auschwitz had the most profound impact on her. The sight of the victims' personal belongings and the solemn atmosphere left her deeply moved.

Esther reflected, "It was the freest period of my life, like a free adventure." Engaging with people from various backgrounds made her aware of life's vast possibilities. She described going abroad as a chance to reinvent herself, urging future exchange students to fully embrace the experience without regrets.