Welcome to the Carolinum. A year ago I sat in the same seats as you, listening to the same opening ceremony in this beautiful building, wondering where my future was taking me. What I was feeling, was probably the same as what most of you are feeling today: nervous, tired; obviously confused listening to the ceremony in czech, as I didn’t speak any yet. Most vividly, however, I felt scared. I felt terrified to acknowledge that I had left my home, my family and friends, everything familiar to me; and I wanted to go back. I was afraid that if I really commit myself to studying here and fail, that I would be nothing more than a failure.

Everyone here has arrived to the Czech Republic under different circumstances, but we have all come with one purpose: to learn czech.

I knew, as all of you know, that this was going to be very hard. You can imagine what lies ahead of you. All the flashcards, the frustration, the afternoons, evenings, and nights of studying - I don’t have to tell you this. I am here to remind you to believe in yourself. It’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to feel stressed or scared at times. Know that all your peers are going through the same thing, and know there are many people at UJOP who want to help you, and want to see you succeed. Don’t be afraid to give it your all, and to reach out when you need help.

Time will fly by. It really does feel like yesterday, that I sat here listening, just like you. Though your main priority is learning, take the time to enjoy this part of your life. Be open to new experiences, meet people and make friends, eat good food, find little things to enjoy, and most importantly, remember to live. Balance between hard work and fun is what makes such a difficult task possible.

My mother always says; “Luck favors the prepared.” Be proud of yourself for choosing to prepare for your future. With hard work you can do anything, even learn czech. The road is long and scary, but you must give it your all. I congratulate you on making it this far. Please, go forth, and learn!

Dear students, dear teachers, dear guests,

It is a great honour for me to stand before you today in this historic hall of the Carolinum, where the stories of so many students begin. When I look at you, I remember my own beginnings at UJOP. Two years ago, I was exactly where you are today – full of determination, but also full of doubts.

I came from Uzbekistan to fulfill my dream of studying medicine at one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. And today I'm here to tell you that you too can achieve your goals.

Studying at UJOP meant much more to me than just language courses. It was a place that gave me a solid foundation and prepared me for the challenges I had to face. Czech was only the first step. It was the key to opening the door, but UJOP gave me something even more important – confidence, discipline and support.

I remember how difficult it was – a new language, a new environment, high demands. But it was in this environment that I understood that UJOP is not just about learning. It's a community that supports and guides you. You have classmates from different parts of the world around you who are going through similar challenges. You have teachers who not only impart knowledge to you, but also motivate you and believe in your potential.

The last days before the exams were difficult. But what kept me going was the experience from UJOP. I knew I got the best I could. UJOP has taught me that hard work and the right approach can achieve even the most ambitious goals. And that's why I was able to successfully pass the entrance exams and get into all 5 medical faculties of Charles University.

Today I stand in front of you as a second-year student of the 2nd Faculty of Medicine of Charles University. But more importantly, I stand before you as someone who once had the same fears and doubts as you. And if I could give you one piece of advice, it would be this: believe in the power of the path you have embarked on. Believe me, what may be scaring or worrying you right now is just another step towards your success.

UJOP gives you not only knowledge, but also the tools to overcome obstacles. Every hour you spend here is an investment in your future. It's not just about learning Czech, it's about becoming a more resilient, confident person ready for all the challenges that await you in academia.

And I would like to tell you that I will not leave you alone. Although I am now a second-year student at the 2nd Faculty of Medicine, I am active at the faculty and try to help new students and applicants who want to get there. Whether you need advice, encouragement or just someone to listen to you, I will be here for you. I know very well how difficult this journey can be, and I want to help you overcome it.

All of us who have been through UJOP know that it is not an easy path, but it is the path that will prepare you for future success. And I can tell you today from my own experience: if you persevere, if you try and believe in yourself, you will achieve your goal. I am proud to have been and am part of this community now, and I believe that one day you will be proud of what you have achieved here.

Thank you and I wish you good luck and strength in the coming academic year. Believe that every step you take now brings you closer to your dream.