Marcel Lačík

Lenka V. is a graduate of Gymnázium Třinec and it was always her dream to study abroad, especially in North America.  Recently, she’s been selected for a scholarship at Michigan State University. This is a short interview with her.

Hi Lenka, how did you react to being selected for the scholarship?

Hello, I was really surprised when the letter came in and I was obviously very happy. I put so much work into it that it seemed almost surreal.

What are you going to study in Michigan?

I’m going to study Biochemistry, my scholarship is for a Master’s degree. I will also work on improving my English as I’ve already put so much work into other subjects and activities and I honestly think that slowed down my progress in English.

Will the scholarship pay for all of your university tuition, or is it only partial?

The scholarship will cover my university fees, but I had to find myself a place to live and I will have to buy my own food. To be honest, I didn’t know how easy it was to find other students from abroad that would go and live with a bunch of strangers in a university dorm, but apparently, it’s normal and encouraged.

Do you fear anything going forward and living there? Would you want to live there even after school?

I’m a little afraid of the social norms there because the culture is quite different from ours, but I hope to adapt quickly and hopefully not get myself in any trouble. Also, most people said that the student environment is welcoming and we’ll help each other. 

At this point, I have no idea, I can’t imagine not seeing my family for such a long time, so as far as where I am now, I wouldn’t be able to.

Thanks and wish you good luck!