MCC group visits sister university in Czech Republic

June 7, 2023

A group of 16 students from the McLennan Community College (MCC) Presidential Scholars and Honors College programs along with their professors and College administrators recently returned to Waco following a trip to the Czech Republic. The trip was the culmination of this spring’s Introduction to Humanities class, in which MCC students were partnered with students from Masaryk University (MUNI) in Brno, Czech Republic.

During the semester, students were introduced to the concept of immersive learning and developed expectations for their travel abroad. The students from both institutions participated in peer-to-peer teaching and learning through the creation of videos that focused on culture, relationships, rituals and restrictions. Students had regular conversations with their international partners and developed relationships with them. In addition, the MCC students gained knowledge in Czech history, literature, music, geography, philosophy, and sociology.

“The students developed life-long friendships with their Czech partners,” Dr. Amy Antoninka, professor of philosophy, said. “They demonstrated graciousness, grit and open-mindedness as they grew as scholars and individuals.”

The group visited many sites throughout the trip including Austerlitz, the Moravian Karst, Spilberk Castle, Hbluka Castle, Zvikov Castle, Cesky Krumlov and Ceske Budejovice, along with stops in Prague and Vienna. The group also spent some time in London as a bonus following a canceled flight.

MCC President Dr. Johnette McKown and Vice President of Instruction Dr. Fred Hills accompanied the group to foster the College’s ongoing with relationship with its sister university, MUNI, and extended the partnership between the two institutions while examining new opportunities for student and instructional exchanges.