Isabel is a spring admit and a freshman studying Psychology. She hopes to make a difference as a therapist or psychiatrist. Isabel is leaping into the unknown by spending her first college semester in Prague through the Prague Connect program, bravely venturing outside the U.S. for the first time. Besides her studies, she enjoys art, music, movies, and outdoor activities, such as traveling, playing pickleball, and tennis. An interesting fact? She’s spent ten summers at sleepaway camp. Isabel has been brainstorming ideas for the European Center’s social media accounts, so look out for her content throughout the fall semester!

Why did you choose to apply to the Prague Connect program?

I chose the Prague Connect program because I wanted to travel and gain a broader global perspective. In high school, I completed the IB program, which exposed me to a more international perspective beyond the confines of the U.S. I look forward to seeing how living in another country for three months will transform me. 

What motivated you to apply for the Social Media scholarship? 

I applied for the social media scholarship because it seemed like an exciting opportunity! I enjoy being creative and curating memories to share on social media platforms. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on my own experiences, and doing the same for others is really rewarding. Previously, I helped produce content for a local non-profit called Union County Girls on the Run. I also experimented with making lifestyle TikToks just for fun.

“A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” This is why my goal is to step outside of my comfort zone and grow as a person, because Prague is a perfect place for that.

What do you expect from working with the NC State Prague Center social media team?  

I believe working with the NC State European Center social media team will be a great way to remember our collective experience in Prague and inspire future students to take the leap and apply!

How do you prepare for your study abroad experience?  

Currently, to prepare, I’ve been saving money for travel and spending extra time with my family and friends since I won’t see them for three months. I’ve also been learning a bit of Czech on Duolingo. I hate being unprepared, so lists have become my best friends. I have packing lists and lists of things to see in Prague.

Which resources did you find most helpful when planning your trip?

I highly recommend doing research on packing on TikTok! There is a wealth of helpful information about long-term packing available online, including the NC State Abroad website and the Prague Instagram. 

I’m really excited to live in a walkable city like Prague. Even just using public transportation will be a new experience for me, and I can’t wait.

What were you most excited or nervous about before leaving? 

I’m really excited to live in a walkable city like Prague. Even just using public transportation will be a new experience for me, and I can’t wait. I talk to my family every day at home, and I’m a bit nervous about not being able to talk as much because of the time difference. I’m eager to receive a full debrief when I get home, and sticking to my plan to journal regularly will make this easier.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

I believe the best advice I’ve received is to say yes as often as I can. I want to see and experience as much as possible when I’m abroad, and having a variety of different experiences is a great way to do that. “A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” This is why my goal is to step outside of my comfort zone and grow as a person, because Prague is a perfect place for that.