On October 31, 2024, Brno welcomed international students and alumni for an inspiring day of workshops, networking, and cultural exchanges at the International Student and Alumni Meetup. Organized by Study in Czechia, the official source of information on studying and living in Czechia, the event celebrated 20 years of fostering connections among students and alumni from across the globe who have a common thing – they chose to study in Czechia.
Workshops at Masaryk University
The event started with engaging workshops at Masaryk University, providing students and alumni with skills, local insights, and professional development. During the first workshop Volunteering - Connect and Contribute attendees explored how community engagement can enhance their international journey, offering lasting friendships, valuable experiences, and personal growth. In the second workshop Brno. Your Life Beyond Studies. participants delved into the opportunities Brno offers, from career services to local projects, and heard from alumni who’ve successfully transitioned from students to professionals in the Brno region. Attendees of the third workshop learned how to Master Reels to create eye-catching content for social media. The last workshop provided guidance on finding jobs or starting a business in the South Moravian Region on their way From Campus to Career.
Evening Celebration at Fléda Club
From 5 PM, the event moved to Fléda Club for a lively evening program. Participants practised their Czech language skills in a language corner of Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies and enjoyed classic Czech games like Člověče, nezlob se! and pexeso. University booths from various institutions in Czechia, including University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Technical University in Prague, Masaryk University, Brno University of Technology, University of Hradec Králové, Charles University, and Palacky University Olomouc, provided information on their alumni programs, further study options, and opportunities to connect with university representatives.
The Study in Czechia and Czechia Alumni stands offered insights into studying in Czechia and details on Czechia alumni and STUDY IN ambassador programs. Other booths featured ESN Brno United and career advisory services. Brno and Ostrava Expat Centres presented how they support local expat communities. The Czech National Agency for International Education and Research representatives also shared information on Training and Cooperation Activities and youth programmes.
From Study Destinations to Career Foundations
International students like Juanita Sierra Parrado from Colombia and Iman Mehmandoust from Afghanistan shared how their experiences in Czechia have positively impacted their lives and careers. Juanita, a student at Mendel University in Brno, chose the city for its high ranking among Europe’s top study destinations, with other international students affirming the quality of education and vibrant lifestyle. Iman, a graduate of Masaryk University, found Brno to be the 'Silicon Valley of Europe' and, despite the initial cultural challenges, credits events like the Meetup for helping him find friends and career opportunities that ultimately led him to stay in Czechia, where he now works for a global IT company.
Quiz, Cake, and Connections
Throughout the evening, participants teamed up to test their knowledge of Czechia and study life in a trivia game, with three winning teams rewarded. The highlight of the celebration was the cutting of a birthday cake, marking the 20th anniversary of Study in Czechia—a memorable conclusion to a day dedicated to community, learning, and international connections.
Are you curious about more photos from this event? See the album on our Facebook page.
Want to stay informed about our upcoming events? Please register for the Czechia Alumni programme and receive our quarterly newsletter. Or do you wish to engage more actively as an alumni ambassador? Contact us at alumni@studyin.cz.