One of the first events I was invited to upon arriving in Znojmo and starting to teach was the Ples. I was told over and over that this could be considered the Czech high school prom. So with small warning and description of what to expect, I went into this weekend expecting something like an … Continue reading All “Proms” are Not Created Equal
This weekend was jam packed with Czech culture and I truly felt immersed in life here. Starting with Friday, I helped out with my school’s “Open House” by teaching an optional English lesson for students. A surprising number showed up and I tried to make it fun by teaching about Thanksgiving. We learned some history, … Continue reading Cultural Observer
As my second official month here comes to a close, I am feeling more plunged into this experience than ever. It feels as if I have been here for a least 5 months and it is hard to believe I still have so much time here. Both September and October followed a similar pattern. The … Continue reading 2 Down, 8 to Go
While my official title and Fulbright grant say that I am an “English teaching assistant,” I think a more accurate description of my activities, as a teacher is an “American culture specialist.” Almost one of my three to four lessons each day involves giving an overview of some topic as it relates to American life. … Continue reading What is American?
While it is definitely still far from being Thanksgiving, I would like to dedicate this post to the amazing things and opportunities thus far in my Fulbright experience. Several times this week I felt elated and overly happy, yet frustrated with the inability to show proper gratitude for people and things here. So maybe this … Continue reading Grappling with Gratitude
This past week was a big readjustment back to normal after traveling to Prague. Getting back to school on Monday was a shock and it felt as if I had been gone for a month. It is crazy that I am now well into my second month in the Czech Republic. Time seems to move … Continue reading A Znojmo Week
Last week was like a mini vacation from my new life in Znojmo. I returned to Prague for the first time since moving to Znojmo and was glad to see the rest of the Fulbright ETAs again for our second Fulbright orientation. Rather than focusing on teaching English and the Czech school system, this orientation … Continue reading Americans in Prague
Besides a typical week of classes and life in Znojmo, I successfully went on 3-day trips this week! One thing I love about living in another country is that I am motivated to do lots of excursions, when otherwise at home I might opt for watching television or making the excuse that I am too … Continue reading Day Tripper
For the first time since arriving in the Czech Republic, I felt busy this week. This morning (Sunday) was the first time I was able to really “sleep in” and my body definitely appreciated the full 10 hours. At school I began teaching more lessons and getting to know my students better. I met with … Continue reading Small Town Excitement
The week began with the start of school and the development of my weekly routine while living with my mentor, Jana, and her family for the next month: 7am- Wake up and eat breakfast of tea, fruit, and small piece of cake. 7:30am- Leave house for school and drop of 2 kids, Anna and Honza, … Continue reading (Breaking) Routine
Mariel Sporn Tavakoli 