Matt’s Single Step
The ancient Tao philosopher Lao Tzu may have said it best when he stated, “A Journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step.” For Matt Anderson, this quote rings all too true. Just a short while ago, this young future black entrepreneur began his own journey with a life changing ‘single step’ when he applied for a study abroad program at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. The decision to embark upon a summer long semester in Prague by himself can only be described as brave as it cannot be denied that many would not have had the courage to step outside of their comfort zone and attempt this wild adventure! As we’ve come to learn more about Matt, it’s easy to understand how his ambition, grit, and thirst for knowledge must have easily overcame any feelings of apprehension about setting forth on such a significant and solitary passage.
Finishing Strong
Last we left Matt, he was finishing his semester strong and preparing for his final exams. With his exams and coursework successfully completed, Matt was now faced with some conflicting emotions, the satisfaction and accomplishment upon having completed his semester, paired with the feelings of sadness and sentimentalism having to leave what he called his home and friends for the summer.
Approaching the conclusion of his time in Europe, Matt was determined to live his last days in Prague to the fullest. Since a friend from Kansas State (currently living in the Netherlands) came to visit him for his last week, this proved not so difficult. Matt stated that it felt surreal, seeing someone from “back home” right alongside him in such a faraway place. However, spending time with a familiar face made his final few days in Prague all the more enjoyable.
Home Sweet Kansas
Believe it or not, our fun, fearless, and favorite traveler has now returned back to home sweet Kansas! In fact, as you read this post, Matt is most likely taking some time to recoup from his busy semester. All that learning and exploring definitely warrants a few days of relaxation! We hope Matt is able to unwind and enjoy some nice, refreshing air conditioning, as this was one luxury he admits was greatly missed during his time spent in Prague!
Final Thoughts
Matt recapped his numerous adventures in Europe, which included Prague, Budapest, Barcelona, and Berlin. Although he acknowledged that it is near impossible to rank them, Matt remarked that he enjoyed Prague most of all. However, if you’re looking for a good meal, he recommended Barcelona; as deliciously fresh seafood simply cannot be beat!
Whether you’re flying thousands of miles across the world for a study abroad or going on a short road trip for the weekend, we’ve all experienced the ‘bumps in the road’ that undoubtedly accompany any trip or vacation. As we seen with Matt, his travels were certainly no exception! Uncomfortable train conditions, extremely hot temperatures, and no cell phone… these are just a few of the ‘bumps’ that Matt encountered, yet overcame during his journey. Matt is the first to admit that these obstacles were well worth the experiences that came with his semester abroad, and goes further to say that this opportunity has greatly surpassed his initial expectations! Not only was he able to gain a wealth of knowledge regarding some new customs, cultures, and people, he was most importantly able to learn some things about himself as well. To further demonstrate this and close out our blog profile on Matt, we’re using Matt’s own words, in which we believe best summarizes his study abroad experience!
“ I feel as if studying abroad this summer was a once in a lifetime experience, something that every college student should do if the opportunity presents itself!….This summer has really taught me a lot about the world, and I learned a lot about myself. Over the past few weeks I’ve become more cultured, a better problem solver, better public speaker, better navigator, and more mature….There is no doubt in my mind I will be going back soon.”
~Matt Anderson~
Matt wishes to express his most sincere gratitude to the Black Entrepreneurs, Inc. Sponsors for making his dream of studying in Europe a reality. In addition to this, he would like to thank his family for the love and support they have shown him over the years.
It has been a pleasure bringing you weekly updates on Matt and his study abroad experience in Prague. We hope that you’ve enjoyed learning and exploring along with him throughout the semester and look forward to sharing other adventures from future scholarship recipients with you.
BE, along with our Sponsors, will continue to support Black students in their entrepreneurial endeavors. If you, like Matt, are interested in creating some unique and unforgettable memories through a study abroad program, please visit our See the World, BE the Future page for additional information regarding our See the World, BE the Future Scholarship.
Matt’s Last Photos of Prague
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