Meet LaQuan Allen

Program and Location:

Summer, NC State European Center in Prague; Prague, Czech Republic

Major/Minor:

Art + Design

Why did you choose to study abroad?

As a student of the NCSU College of Design, Study abroad is a requirement for Art+Design students to help them gain some international experience. I wanted to fulfill this requirement, use it as an opportunity to get out of the United States to explore foreign lands, and gain inspiration from a different culture that you can essentially apply to your art and design process.

What did you learn about yourself?

I learned as an artist, it’s great to use references and the world around you as inspiration and the environment around you to influence your artwork. As a child, due to limited experience of being out and about and traveling outside of my hometown and state, even as a teen, I had to rely on the internet and social media to learn about cool places outside of my hometown and realize that there is a different world with a lot more diversity in terms of people, cultures, mindsets, and ideals. I needed to actually travel to Prague and physically immerse myself in the environment, the community, and people to truly understand and gain the necessary experience so I can apply it to my art.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

I loved the Trams that took us all over to the city. These public transits effortlessly took us to our desired destinations and eliminated the burden of needing a car or Ubers. It made me wish that the United States would implement a similar transit system in our cities.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Truly take the time to get out and explore the city. The Trams can get you to any destination that you desire. Also go with a group of friends because it really does add on to the fun.

How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at NC State? Did you take any field trips or do anything outside of the traditional classroom?

My Art Studio class in Prague was way different than at NC State because on certain days, we had to take a train to my Teacher’s Home/Studio to do Etching projects. It was scary travelling across the city to attend class but eventually it was easy and just became normal routine.

Would you do it again?

Yes, I would.