Alex, a student from Australia who chose to study at the Faculty of Education in Brno, has a remarkable journey filled with unique experiences and bold decisions.
His story began in music - playing drums in a band. He first visited the Czech Republic about ten years ago for the Rock for People festival in Hradec Králové, where he connected deeply with czech culture, the warm people, and the lively atmosphere. Later, Alex’s journey took him to the film industry when he had the chance to act in the role of drummer Ron Tutt for the Baz Luhrmann in the movie Elvis, even meeting actor Tom Hanks. Though originally from Australia, Alex feels more at home in Europe. His teaching career began in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he taught English at a language school and realized his passion for teaching. Seeing that many teaching roles and his decision in different carrier direction now require a bachelor’s degree, he looked for a program that aligned with his goals. Studying in the Czech Republic felt like a bit of a gamble, as he’d never been to Brno, but his first months here have assured him it was the right choice.
I first came here about ten years ago with my band. That was my first encounter with Czech people and culture, and it left a lasting impression on me. Brno is a fairly small city, but it's very compact - there are many interesting layers to it. I came here because I wanted to change career paths, and while it initially felt like a big step, the transition has been surprisingly smooth.
I was already teaching English in Tbilisi, Georgia. I completed my CELTA certificate there and got a job at International House. (It is currently the largest English language school in Georgia providing general English instruction, editor's note ). Although it was a great experience, I knew I didn’t want to stay there forever. Nowadays, most job offers require a bachelor’s degree, so I started looking for programs that matched my career goals. As a native speaker, I've been told I don't need a degree, but for the roles I’m aiming for, experience alone isn’t enough. The Faculty of Education here offers exactly the kind of program I was looking for.
“It felt like a bit of a gamble. I had never been to Brno. But it has been a very smooth process. Czechia already feels like home.”
I chose the English Language for Education program because the curriculum closely aligns with my professional goals. Also, Milena (international relations assistant) here at the faculty has done an amazing job helping international students feel part of the community right away. I’ve only been here for two months, but Brno has already made a great impression.
What do you enjoy the most about studying here?
I feel more European than Australian, and I’d like to live here. I feel more in sync with the atmosphere here: the way people behave, the architecture, the culture. The quality of education is great, too. I enjoy assignments where I get to dive deep into topics that connect in unexpected ways - everything I’m learning here has been interesting.
Absolutely. I don't recall having to wait long for clarification on anything. Milena has been very responsive, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone and facilitating social connections among international students.
For students worried about spending three or more years in a new place, Brno has more than enough to offer. I feel very fortunate to have chosen Brno and Masaryk University. Brno is a beautiful, livable city, and if you’re interested in teaching, Masaryk’s curriculum is well-designed and up-to-date for the profession.
“The curriculum is well-designed and up-to-date for the profession.”
In 2024, the Faculty of Education of Masaryk University was in the middle of the second implementation period of the Revised HR Award Action Plan. This year, the focus was on improving internal communication, education, the working environment and the adaptation of new employees.
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