Veronika Hendrychová is a fifth-year Mathematical Informatics student at FNSPE. Last year, she spent two semesters studying in France; now, alongside her own studies, she also teaches linear algebra to first-year students. Thanks to her academic achievements, she became a laureate of the Stanislav Hanzl Award for CTU’s best students this year. Beyond her studies, she has long been involved in organising some of the largest physics competitions for secondary school students in the Czech Republic under the auspices of FYKOS. In her remaining free time, she plays Go, listens to political podcasts, and plays the piano.
- Why did you enrol at Jaderka?
ZFrom secondary school, I knew I was interested in physics and programming. When I was deciding between universities with these focuses, Jaderka won out primarily because of its "family" environment and its excellent reputation. I also liked the option to change specialisations easily—which I took advantage of after my first year—and I am now studying a more mathematically focused path that I find even more enjoyable.
- Would you recommend studying at Jaderka? And who do you think it is not for?
I think it depends on what you are looking for. For me, Jaderka definitely provides a high-quality education and a pleasant environment. Once you graduate, it’s a clear signal that you can work hard and master a vast range of subjects; you also get the chance to be involved in research if you wish. Thanks to the Erasmus programme, Jaderka also allowed me to study abroad for a year, which was a priceless experience. Of course, the faculty isn't for everyone—the studies require a great deal of effort and a lot of time, especially in the first year. Jaderka is unique, and in some respects, truly challenging. For example, I wouldn't recommend FNSPE to anyone who needs to work a part-time job during their first year or who simply plans to treat university as a "side project." Similarly, I wouldn't recommend Jaderka to students who struggle with mathematics, as there is no avoiding it here.
- What do you enjoy about the faculty and what is there to do here?
I hope it doesn’t sound like a cliché, but especially during my first few years, I really enjoyed the feeling that—after some hard work—I could understand incredibly complex and abstract concepts I didn't even know existed. Here, I have the opportunity to engage with them closely. This year, I am also leading maths seminars myself, which I find very fulfilling and something I look forward to every week. Last but not least, I also like to drop by the regular student events from time to time.
- Do you take part in any activities outside of Jaderka?
The majority of my time outside of lectures is spent organising the Physics Correspondence Seminar (FYKOS). I’ve been doing this for several years, and it has taught me many practical skills that you just don't encounter in a classroom. I think it’s very important for young people to learn to take responsibility for things that matter to them and to act on their own initiative. Occasionally, I also enjoy playing Go or doing calisthenics.
We would like to extend our thanks to our lovely neighbours at the Prague Conservatory for providing the concert hall in Pálffy Palace for the photoshoot! Photo: David Březina