Students and professors gathered at Anglo-American University on Sept. 5 for Community Day, the first student event of the school year, where a smaller-than-usual crowd enjoyed food, music and speeches to celebrate the start of the semester.
Known for its free food and drinks, Community Day typically appeals to many students. This year’s lighter turnout gave the event a different atmosphere, with some welcoming the shorter lines and relaxed tone while others missed the larger crowds and opportunities to mingle seen in past years.
“I felt the number of people was lacking, especially after a couple of drinks when the majority of people left,” said first-year student Alexander Logan.
Several students said they learned about the event only through word of mouth, which may have contributed to the smaller attendance. Still, some appreciated the more intimate setting, such as second-year student Griffen Christopher Klar.
The event began with a speech by AAU President Jiří Schwarz, who expressed his enthusiasm for the new school year and highlighted the achievements of the AAU community.
He then introduced Nick Ripper, winner of the JA Czech Start-Up competition with his venture Coolvative. In his talk, Ripper encouraged students to embrace new opportunities, fight for their ideas and seek guidance from professors as mentors.
“I really like it. There’s everyone from school, free food, free beer, the president is here,” said first-year student Braden Organ.
Students can look forward to upcoming events, including Trivia Night on Sept. 16 and Professors in the Pub on Sept. 18.
