WKU News

Harmonizing diverse passions for debate, economics, and foreign affairs can be a formidable challenge. However, Tyler Prochazka (Class of 2016) has integrated these passions, creating a future that spans academic achievements, international experiences, and transformative social initiatives. His educational foundation, acquired through a strategic blend of majors in International Affairs, Economics, and Asian Religions and Cultures, paved the way for an upward trajectory.

Prochazka's quest to expand his knowledge of China and international trade led him to pursue his combination of majors at WKU. The Department of Political Science played a pivotal role in nurturing Prochazka's passion for international trade and affairs, thanks to the invaluable guidance of his esteemed professors.

“I learned more about the world at my time with WKU and had fantastic professors who were both guiding me academically and were mentors for many years after I graduated.”

The enriching academic environment and the guidance provided by his professors fostered his growth and continue to be mentors. Tyler recounts his time abroad as a significant learning experience and encourages other students to study abroad.

“Go with Dr. (Timothy) Rich to Taiwan! Also, I recommend learning a foreign language seriously and studying another complementary major such as economics.”

Today, Tyler Prochazka resides in Taipei, where he is a PhD Candidate at National Chengchi University.

“...I used my foundation from WKU to write both my master's thesis and my current dissertation because of the undergraduate thesis that I completed during my time there.”

Apart from his academic pursuits, Prochazka has made significant contributions as the CEO and co-founder of Ascent Academy in Taipei. This initiative provides bilingual and English-taught soft skill training, equipping students with the essential tools needed to thrive in the future.