Veronika Kanova

Twenty-one years old Step by Step (SbS) program alumna Veronika Kaňová, from Czech Republic, is a medical school student. She has only positive memories from the SbS school experience.

Veronika, how was your school different from the others?
I took part in the Step by Step program during my first five years of school education. I liked it a lot. I remember that we did not have to sit for five hours on the chair, and instead we moved, talked to each other, and discussed everything. We had lots of group work, and that is why we had many peer discussions. After making a group project, we had to give a presentation in front of the whole class and our teacher. I also remember that, before we started every day, we sat on the floor, on the carpet and we listened to the teacher’s letter; that was the announcement of the day. The funny thing is that this letter also contained some grammar mistakes and we had to catch them and correct them. In this way we also learned about proper language. Three months ago we had a 10 years reunion with people whom I participated in the SbS program with. It was very nice to see where all of us are at the moment: some are still studying, some are working… We talked a lot about our current lives and goals.

What was your main learning during the program?
I think during the program I have learned to see my teacher more like a friend, not only as a teacher. I trusted her a lot. I came to her to solve some private situations as well, and she was very helpful. 

How did the SbS program contribute to your growth?
The program taught me to study, to get new knowledge and to have responsibility. It also gave me a lot when it comes to work in a group. I have learned how to talk to other people, how to discuss what needs to be discussed, and how to come to a common decision. It helps me now in my life as well. 

How did the program change you and influenced your future?
I think the program influenced the choice of my profession in some way. I knew I wanted to become a doctor since my second year at school. I liked biology and later in my school years I was very fond of chemistry. 

What are your wishes for the SbS program? 
I would not change anything in the program. I liked it a lot, and I think it works perfectly well. When I have my own children, I would like them to also participate in the SbSt program and have the same loving and understanding teacher as I had.