University of Wisconsin–Madison

Czech Republic: Rosalie Powell (Our Global Classroom)

Our Global Classroom

A second-story hallway, with an opening to the ground floor on the left side. A large tree grows in the gap.
The hallway in the Environmental Science Building

Taking classes at CZU has been a big adjustment, but it has been really interesting to learn the differences in education systems. All of my classes this semester are graduate classes; while CZU has bachelor classes in English the ones I happened to be interested in are for grad-students. Most of the students in this program are international, but there are some Czech students that choose to study in English.

The biggest difference I’ve noticed is that classes are much longer. All class periods are 1.5 hours then a 15-minute break, then another 1.5-hour seminar. Having the same subject for 3 hours has been a big change, but

Rows of students in lime green desks look up to a projector screen.
A guest lecturer in my conservation biology class

the trade-off is that we only meet once a week, so my schedule is a lot more compact. Many of the graduate classes are organized to have most of the classes taught by guest lecturers–this has been really interesting.

A room with tables, lime green chairs, and hanging orange lights. There are various plants in pots and planters around the room.
The cafeteria in the environmental science building

Another difference is that there is less focus on assignments. In most of my classes the only assignment I have is to give a presentation. Most of our grade is based on the exam at the end of the term which I’ve been told is often an oral exam. This is definitely a big change! The campus itself is really green, with lots of plants and nice places to sit. I still get a bit lost, but all the building are color coded based on the subject which helps!

 

Rosalie stands in front of a railing, behind with is a slightly blurred mountainous background.

Rosalie Powell

Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin

Major: Environmental Sciences & Life Sciences Communication

Program: Czech University of Life Sciences Exchange

One reason I chose my program is because CULS is a life sciences school. This focus allows me to take a ton of classes toward my major (environmental science). Many of the courses include field trips and field experience which I think will enrich my academic experience and understanding of ecology. I’m really excited to see environmental science from a different perspective and explore Prague!