“I am an artist. I paint for an art gallery based out of Vienna, the capital of Austria. While this
job pays me well, I still choose to work over weekends with my friends who exhibit on the
streets of the city square. I not only present my work for sale, I also help with managing
finance for our little business. In the last few years, I have met buyers from more than 50
countries because Vienna is a big shot tourist spot, and being an extrovert myself, I was able
to communicate with so many of them on deeper levels. One thing that continuously aroused
my interest was dynamics of development with respect to globalization.

Being a 32-year old graduate and no dependents, I was free to pursue higher studies and
explore a lesser known subject for myself. Working for more than 10 years, I was also
looking forward to having a well-deserved break. Lucky for me, a buyer from India told me
about this summer school that happens every year in Prague which also happens to have a
course similar to my newly developed interest. I was not only thrilled to know it, but a part of
me was also relieved. One, I will finally be able to get into an academic view of globalization
vis a vis development. Two, Prague is only 4-hour away from Vienna.

I enrolled myself into Development: Sustainability vs Globalization in July 2022 and what
followed was the most surreal experience of my life. The modules included interesting
insights and discussions into some global crisis issues like food shortage, exploitation at
coffee plantations, and wastage of resources. My favourite lecturer from Zambia initiated
constructive discussions around this subject where all 22 participants in the room were able
to contribute to it. Out of all twelve lectures, I was particularly struck by the new facts I learnt
during food shortage/wastage classes because that imparted humility, empathy, and
mindfulness in me.

I am glad to say that my experience in summer school not only gave me a lot in terms of
academic learning, but also made me a better person because I was able to look beyond
myself and art. I was able to dive into larger issues in this world and it woke me up in more
than one way.”

We are always mesmerised receiving such heart-warming notes from our alumni. We
encourage people from all across the globe to invest a summer in themselves. This year,
you can still apply to Prague Summer Schools for July 1-July 8. Apply now.