AAU students are scrambling to finish their theses, submit final assignments, and apply for summer jobs as the year winds down, with graduates bidding farewell to Prague and returning underclassmen preparing for tuition increases.
Despite spending the last three weeks in the library writing her thesis, Hadley Hageseth, a third-year humanities student, said she is grateful she chose to study at AAU.
“Now that I’m done with my thesis, it feels like I’m coming out of a toxic breakup,” said Hageseth, who plans to stay in Prague and work part time following the graduation ceremony on June 19, “I’m feeling sad, but also really excited for what the world has to offer.”
Kieran Mulhall, owner of Cafe des Taxis, said that his cafe acts as the linchpin of school social life has served up more cappuccinos, cookies and other items than usual as students cram for their final exams.
“Somehow everyone’s taking their classes the last few weeks before exams come up. So certainly everyone’s here. We’re busier,” Mulhall said.
While Prague’s pricey real estate represents a perpetual headache for students, those coming back to AAU after the summer holidays face a tuition increase by 2.5 percent for the 2026 fall semester.
“The tuition increase is particularly challenging for students, given the fact that there’s no other opportunity for financial aid with the exception of applying for the ambassador or mentorship opportunity,” Maisie Groutt, a second-year humanities student said.
However, first year student Jose Aguilar, looks back on this year with fondness and into the future with excitement as he said that friendly students and faculty helped make his first year and adjustment to a new country enjoyable.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at AAU, the people are very friendly and helpful,” Aguilar said.
He also looks forward to moving out of student housing and into an apartment with his roommate in the coming weeks, as he stays in Prague to enjoy European summer living.
