When I look back on my first two months in the Czech Republic, it’s hard to believe how much has happened. From figuring out how to live with a new family to navigating a foreign school system, every day has brought something new to learn. The excitement and nerves from my first days have slowly given way to a sense of belonging, and I’m beginning to feel like I truly belong here.
In September, everything was fresh and unfamiliar. I was adjusting to my host family, learning simple routines, and figuring out how things worked. My host mom, Lenka, is full of energy and always makes sure I’m well fed. My host dad, Marek, has a quiet humor that makes me feel at ease, and my host sister, Lucy, keeps life interesting. Some days she teases me, other days she surprises me with kindness. Even their dog, Kira, has become part of my everyday comfort.
First Time Mushroom Picking
Am I Small or Is This Chair Big
School was one of my biggest challenges early on. The building felt old and confusing, the schedules made no sense, and I barely understood what teachers were saying. But with help from new friends, I slowly found my rhythm. I’ve gone from feeling lost in the hallways to joking with classmates during breaks. I’ve also discovered how different education can be in another country, more formal, quieter, but still full of opportunities to connect.
Outside of school, September was filled with adventures. I explored Karlovy Vary, toured castles, watched hockey games, and even participated in Rotary events, such as bowling nights and hiking trips. Every weekend seemed to bring something new, whether it was seeing a lunar eclipse, trying strange foods, or simply walking through towns that looked like they belonged in a fairytale.
I Love Karlovy Vary
Ruins Detour on Hike
By October, things started to feel more like everyday life. I learned to ride the bus by myself (a small victory that felt huge), started taking Czech lessons every Tuesday, and grew closer to the other exchange students in my district. My friends and I celebrated birthdays, had sushi nights, and went on hikes through colorful fall forests. I also helped with English lessons at school and spent more time with my host family, who took me to the city of Pilsen to visit castles, museums, and a beautiful old synagogue.
Not everything has been easy; there have been moments of homesickness, language frustration, and small mix-ups, but those have taught me just as much as the good days. I’ve learned how to stay calm when plans change, how to laugh at my mistakes, and how to appreciate the small routines that make life here feel normal: afternoon coffee, long walks, or simple dinners with my host family.
Looking back on these first two months, I can see how much I’ve grown. I arrived in August nervous and unsure, but now I’ve built a life that feels steady and full of possibility. Each day teaches me something new about the Czech Republic, about the world, and about myself. I’m excited to see what the next months will bring, but for now, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
Annagayle FISHMOORE, District 6780, USA → RC Cheb-Eger, Česko
Read more from other students
Rafting Adventure
Daniela, who is staying with us on a year-long exchange program, wrote an article about...
