Hi there! I'm Jan, originally from the Czech Republic and I've just finished my MSc. degree in Political Science in the Netherlands. Before that, I spent three years in the beautiful, yet busy city of London doing (you guessed it) a BA in Political Science and Economics. But I promise I'm not as boring as my degrees make it look like! When you come to think of it, studying Politics these days is much more exciting - and sometimes maybe stressful - than it seems.

In my childhood, a lot of good people helped me to overcome twists of fate and it is only thanks to them that I now can fully enjoy the beauties and pitfalls of life. That was also why I've chosen to study politics: because I want to help others live a happier life and I genuinely believe it can happen more easily when I understand the inner workings of our political system. No, I'm not as naive as to think I can achieve perpetual world peace, but I at least want to bring some more positive energy and good intentions into our public life.

When I'm not studying, talking to you about the benefits of European integration, or the dangers of the AfD Marine Le Pen, I like to listen to what others have to say. I'm genuinely interested in their views, and I'm not afraid to challenge my own views if they they give me good arguments. That's why I've done a LOT of academic debate. Once, I qualified for the World Championship, which gave me the chance to visit the stunning South Africa (a true experience of a lifetime).

On top of that, I love to cook, but I mostly enjoy cooking for more people than just myself (so, we should definitely use the opportunity here on Couchsurfing!). I'm a language enthusiast, and because I'm a perfectionist too, I aim to nail whatever language I start learning. It may be impossible, but at least I try. :). As a true Czech, I'm always open to having a pint of good beer (and criticizing those shady liquids that pretend to be beer). Finally, I love the feeling of being able to help others grow. That's why I volunteer as a teacher in my free time. In the past, I have also assisted in retirement homes.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

For reasons not fully known to me, I've totally fell in love with Germany and the German language, which means I may well be one of about two people in my home country having the same problem! It may have to do with the fact that I was born quite close to the German border (but apparently on the wrong side of the border).

This, combined with my field of study and interests, has motivated me to apply for an internship at the German Bundestag, and I got it! So, starting in March 2019, I will be working in that grand building. And because I have some free time until March, I was thinking I might move to Berlin sooner, meet some exciting people and improve the language before the job starts. Naturally, Couchsurfing is a great option for that!

Interests

• beer
• politics
• languages
• learning new things
• whiskey
• conversation
• driving
• debate

Music, Movies, and Books

Books: 1984, The Master and Margarita, Freakonomics

Movies/series: Love Actually, Darkest Hour, The Americans, Suits, Atypical, Rick and Morty, Designated Survivor

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Once, I went for a volunteering trip to India. I helped with the construction of a school in a tiny village near Mumbai and also taught little children English. That was quite demanding as no one spoke any other language than Hindi, which I did not speak. So, it was a great training in using made-up sign language to demonstrate what I was talking about. But in the end the kids really enjoyed it and hopefully also learned a bit or two.

Teach, Learn, Share

I'm always keen to have a pint with my hosts or guests in the evening and talk about life. Also, I'm always happy to learn a new language or help you learn Czech/Slovak if you need it for some obscure reason :). Besides, it would be great to cook something together if you're up for it!

Countries I’ve Visited

India, South Africa, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Czech Republic, Netherlands, Slovakia, United Kingdom