PDO & REO 2025

PDO & REO 2025
Petra Miková
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Hola to All Corners of the Republic and the World!

Another year has gone by, and in early June we once again prepared our students for their exchange programs abroad. This was the time for PDO – the pre-departure orientation for our outbound students, and also REO – the re-entry orientation for our inbound students (the wonderful ones who spent their exchange here in the Czech Republic). We spent the long weekend at the Doubravka lodge near Chotěboř, surrounded by beautiful nature. And even though it rained for two days, we managed just fine, and the seminar was a great success overall.

PDO is the biggest seminar of the year, as the number of outbound students is always the highest, and we were happy to see so many again this year. For the inbound students, it was their last seminar in the Czech Republic and the last chance to spend time with their friends from around the world – which made it an emotional one. Their final session took place in a tipi, where they said their goodbyes to their exchange experience, gave heartfelt speeches, and shed a few tears (including from the volunteers!). We will miss all this year’s inbound students deeply and are truly grateful to have met so many inspiring people from all over the world.

For the Czech students (outbounds), it was their first seminar to prepare them for their exchange – from the challenges and expectations, to culture shock, language and other barriers, and the rules of a YFU stay abroad. Our experienced volunteers shared their knowledge, discussed the countries where the students will be going, and gave tips on what might surprise them in another culture. We hope we have prepared them well, showed them that an exchange is one of the most powerful and amazing experiences, and, above all, encouraged them to enjoy every moment.

Despite the rain, we went on a beautiful Sunday hike in the surrounding area and got a breath of fresh air. In addition to sessions, students had the chance to play volleyball and football outside, and on Saturday evening we even had a (slightly damp) campfire where we roasted sausages, corn, and tofu.

A huge thank you to all the volunteers for organizing such a great weekend, and to the students for their energy and enthusiasm during the sessions.

We can’t wait to hear all about their adventures and stories from every corner of the world.

On behalf of the volunteers,
Péťa