My 10 seconds of FAME!

So, let's face it. When you live in a different country, you will most certainly do things you wouldn't normally do in your homeland. For example, going to a recording of a reality show.... then ending up on Czech National Television.

I have to say, that this experience was pretty cool. I wasn't really expecting the guy I was rooting for to win (Jiri), but he did! Well, I have to admit that I don't really know Jiri, he's a friend of a friend ... and well... I kinda went because at the time it seemed like a fun idea.... and now I know the cleverest of Czechs! 

If you are curious about the show, you can look at the website... it's pretty legitimate!

http://www.ceskatelevize.cz/porady/10654598060-nejchytrejsi-cech/

Fulbright facts. *Due to the questions*

How many hours do you work a week?

14 or 16 (on average 15) plus my extra English club.

How many students do you teach?

Per class, no more than 12, no less than 4. Usually, 6-10 students.

Do you need to speak Czech?

In school, no. In the capital, no. In my town, yes, but I manage with ease.

Did you learn Czech?

Yes and no. Some background: I did have a Czech tutor for a year in the USA before I applied for a Fulbright. When I came here, I did not take lessons for 6 months, then I started taking lessons at a language school. So, yes, I speak enough Czech to talk to people, make some friends, make arrangements… but honestly, I usually speak English…. I do not think I would have made friends in this country, if I didn’t at least attempt to speak the language.

What are some shocking things you’ve experienced?

There are good shocks and bad shocks.

Bad shock:

Knowing German and French is as good as knowing English in this country.

Living alone gets pretty lonely.

Good shock:

How easy it is to make close friends. When you move to a new country, people understand that you’re alone and they want to help!

How great this country is!

 What are you recommendations for applying?

Make sure you don't apply to a random country... Apply to a country that you (1) been to, (2) learned about and (3) genuinely want to live in. It will be obvious in your application, if you are not very interested in the country that you are applying. Also, if you do not want to genuinely live in this country, you will not be very happy in the coming year.