As I am preparing to leave this wonderful city, I am realizing how difficult it is to say goodbyes. Within these fast four months, I have met many amazing people who have shaped my study abroad experience. Together we have experienced Prague and in return Prague has provided us countless unforgettable memories. Looking back on my experience, I tried to pinpoint my five favorite memories while studying in Prague.
The first memory that stands out is my first sight of Prague as my train rolled into the city. I remember looking at the city with awe and excitement as I saw the city unfold before my eyes. At this point the realization finally hit me that I was actually doing this study abroad “thing.”
The CEA excursion to Český rájis my next favorite memory. With the physically and mentally exhausting activities, the trip allowed me to meet others and become closer to the friends I already had. In addition, I was able to see the beautiful country side of the Czech Republic.
The third moment that is on the top of my mind is the lighting of the Christmas tree in Old Town Square. As my friends and I huddled in the frigid air sipping on mulled wine, we counted down with the crowd.. tři..dva..jeden.. and the square was lightened with a beautiful light show from the tree and holiday music from the live orchestra.
My family traveling across the ocean to visit me in Prague is another favorite memory. I was fortunate that both my parents, sisters, brother-in-law, and soon to be brother-in-law came to see me! We visited Dublin, Ireland, and Dresden, Germany, together at the beginning of their trip and then flew to Prague for the remaining week. I was able to show them my university, apartment, and favorite sites.
The last memory that prominently stands out in my mind is my last night in Prague singing and giggling with good friends as we paraded through the streets of Prague. We were able to have one more night of all of us together in the city that formed our friendship, which was bittersweet.
As my roommates and neighbors crowed around me and my friend Kate as we loaded our things into the taxi, I could not comprehend that I was leaving. Even though it is cliché, it seemed like yesterday I had just arrived. My dear roommate comforted me the idea that you meet everyone twice in your life, so it isn’t really goodbye to Prague and my new found friends, it’s see you again.
Lisa Jordahl is the Fall 2013 CEA MOJO in Prague, Czech Republic. She is currently a senior at St. Norbert College.