2008 events

Students at the American Center

School Visits Run Through the Summer

August 5, 2008

Speakers Bureaus organized through the American Center offer an excellent opportunity for both Czech and American students to learn about the United States Embassy and American foreign policy. This summer, members of the Embassy met with a number of high school and university students. Through these conversations, both American diplomats and students gained a better understanding of a number of topics, due to the thoughtful discussion and free exchange of ideas cultivated by these meetings.  Discussions have ranged from thirteenth century history of the Embassy to more current topics such as missile defense, presidential elections, the European Union and the Visa Waiver Program.

This summer, the Speakers' Bureaus brought in students from North Carolina State University; University of New Orleans; Gymnasium Holesov; and ANOA, Gymnasium, Praha 6. The American university students were very intrigued with the impact of Czech history on current foreign policy. In addition, they were interested to discover in what ways American foreign policy is formed and implemented with regards to the Czech Republic. This analysis of American foreign policy and world relations often led to a desire to pursue a career in the Department of State. Often Czech and American students were interested in similar topics; however, the Czech students were particularly curious in the American presidential election and how its results might affect them. Given the particular local significance, Czech students were also enthused to learn more about the Visa Waiver Program and Missile Defense. Although the students came from two different countries, they all shared strong beliefs in the importance democracy as well as the values represented in our two unique and rich cultures. These ties in ideals, coupled with the strong desire by both nations to encourage such educational endeavors, have created the strong relationship Americans and Czechs experience today.