Cornelius Hayes ’27, is studying Psychology and resides in Kirkland House. Before coming to Harvard, he served ten years in the Air Force as part of the Special Operations Forces (SOF). This past summer, he joined Harvard Summer School for an eight-week program in Prague, Czech Republic.
Where did you go?
I spent the summer in Prague, Czech Republic, as part of a Harvard Summer School study abroad program. Immersion in a city with a rich yet turbulent history for two months is an unforgettable experience, and, when combining this with the opportunity to gain academic credit, learn the native language, and immediately implement the acquired knowledge in the real world, it is truly remarkable.
What did you do during your study abroad program?
During the course, I was fortunate enough to meet and interact with individuals who, by all accounts, had completely different upbringings than myself, which altered my perceptions of the world around me in a positive way. Some of my fondest memories abroad relate to the fact that Prague is a city with remnants of its history oozing from every street corner, and the ability to gaze in any direction at the surrounding well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture constantly left me in awe. In my eyes, Prague is a city that epitomizes what it means to resist adversity, and it has inspired me to always continue moving forward, no matter the circumstances. Throughout the course, I experienced countless moments of disbelief at the privilege of living and studying abroad in such an incredible city.
What was your biggest takeaway from the experience?
I think it is impossible to pinpoint a single “biggest” highlight of the course, as it was a combination of experiences that made it unique and special in so many ways. When I received acceptance into the Czech summer language program in Prague, I knew it would provide a platform for both academic and personal growth. However, I never imagined the profound positive impact it would soon have on my life.
I realize that studying in Prague provided invaluable opportunities for introspection and growth that I do not think I would have gained otherwise. After completing the course, I have decided to continue studying the Czech language during my upcoming sophomore and junior years, and I intend to pursue a citation in Slavic languages. I have also seriously considered relocating to Prague permanently once I finish my studies at Harvard, and I have begun researching what such a move would entail. An experience like this will certainly affect individuals differently, and, while I cannot speak for everyone, I can say that it has allowed me to approach life with more gratitude, appreciation, and curiosity.
How did you find this opportunity, and how did you fund your experience?
When I arrived at Harvard, I knew I needed to meet a language requirement to complete my degree. Although I had studied French in high school, I hadn’t retained much of it, so I was open to exploring other languages. A friend recommended studying abroad over the summer term, mentioning that he wished he’d done it before beginning his sophomore year.
After separating from the military, I traveled around to several countries/cities across Europe, with Prague being the most memorable leg of the trip. When I saw a chance to return and study there for two months, it was a no-brainer. I applied for funding through MCS, and I was fortunate to be approved and funded through the David Rockefeller International Experience Fund and the Quillen Family Endowed Undergraduate Travel and Research Fund, making this experience possible.
