Erik Stoklasa

Questionnaire

What was your host family’s name? Any host brothers or sisters?

McBrides were super friendly and truly tried so that I felt as being a part of their family. Maya and Dan, parents, have three sons, Aidan (20), Liam (one year older than me) and Kieran (12). Aidan was at a university in Colorado most of the year, so I was temporarily substituting him in the house.

What classes did you take? Did you participate in any sport throughout your stay?

I took 7 classes, Mandarin, Physics, English, Photography, Computer Science, US History and Public Speaking. During August and September I was also running for the Miramonte Cross Country Team, unfortunately my knee injury prevented me from continuing, but it was an amazing team and I have met some very nice people there.

What did you like the most? What places did you see?

California is gorgeous, especially the warm weather and the cozy places in San Francisco. From all the places I have visited during my stay (Los Angeles, New York, Tahoe, and Yosemite) I have enjoyed it the most in San Francisco, the combination of nature, the waterfront, business, not that many tourists and hills was very compelling. But cities like LA or New York are also beautiful they just need more time to explore.

Was there anything you disliked?

People are driving cars way too much and do not have reliable public transport. Also, the freezing AC in the summer was terrible.

Any advice for the upcoming student? Would you recommend something?

Time flies by quickly, I recommend spending some time in San Francisco. Also, people in Orinda have great connections and are very nice, so do not be afraid to ask anyone for anything, just behave like an American. Try to do things you normally would not do and be open, many great experiences come just from that. You do not have to bring that many things, if you forget something, you can buy it here.

Do you have any funny story you would like to share?

I have not met many Czechs during my stay in California, but what is the chance of meeting a friend from your middle school in San Francisco? That is exactly what happened, we have accidentally met in the downtown of San Francisco and then had an iconic meal together - a hot dog!