At the end of my first year of doctoral studies at the Faculty of Social Studies, University of Ostrava (FSS OU), I embarked on a month-long internship that opened new perspectives in my research. Thanks to the Erasmus+ programme, I headed to Bristol, UK, to the University of the West of England (UWE). My journey led me directly to the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR), a world-leading institution in the field of appearance psychology and body image.

What is “Visible Difference”?

In my research, I focus on the topic of visible difference. This term encompasses any differences in appearance that may be congenital (such as clefts or birthmarks), as well as those acquired during life due to illness or injury (such as scars, burns, or alopecia). My goal is to explore the lived experience of adults with such differences in the Czech Republic and to open a discussion on how social work can respond to their needs in terms of support, inclusion, and perception by the general society.

A Welcome that Opened the World to Me

In my very first days, I attended the “CAR Away Day” – a teambuilding event for the entire center, where I met the core of the team. Although working from home has become the norm in the UK since the pandemic (usually 2–3 days a week), the researchers’ office where I had my desk was full of informal meetings and shared lunches. We also met regularly for “CAR weekly” sessions to share the latest research news.

My greatest thanks go to the experienced researcher Professor Diana Harcourt, who supervised me. I was given the opportunity to present my dissertation project proposal and received valuable feedback and literature tips from her and other colleagues. The sense of acceptance was incredible – I felt like a full member of the team. Most valuable of all is the knowledge that this support does not end with my departure. I know I can turn to them again at any time and that I have strong allies in them.

Networking Without Borders: From Oregon to Australia and Norway

CAR literally opened the doors to the whole world for me. Thanks to consultations there, my network grew to include a colleague from Oregon, USA, and after sharing my experiences on social media, I was even contacted by a researcher from Australia. I also highly value a new connection with a colleague from Oslo University Hospital in Norway. This international community is proof that the topic of visible difference resonates across continents.

Bringing the “Appearance Game” to the Czech Republic

One of the most tangible outcomes of my internship is the board game Appearance Game, which was developed at CAR. The game helps open up topics related to appearance and self-confidence. I decided to bring it to the Czech environment and am currently translating it in cooperation with Focus Games. If all goes according to plan, it will be available to Czech professionals and schools from 2026 (www.appearancegame.com).

Highlight in London: Meeting the Legends

The absolute highlight was a trip to London for the VTCT Foundation Showcase event. There, I met the most prominent figures in the field – the founder of CAR, Professor Nichola Rumsey, and the CEO of Face Equality International, Phyllida Swift. Meeting people dedicated to the topic of visible difference on an international level was immensely inspiring.

Wind in My Hair and Views of the Clifton Bridge

Bristol charmed me with its atmosphere. Initially, I got around on foot or by the famous double-deckers, but then came the turning point – I discovered shared bikes. Commuting to the university through beautiful parks with the wind in my hair gave my days a completely different “flair.” Even though the British summer surprised me with tropical days that even the locals weren’t used to, I enjoyed the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and a refreshing trip to the seaside in the town of Clevedon.

Final Thoughts

This internship confirmed that research at our faculty has an international reach and that we are a full part of the global professional dialogue. I am returning with great motivation to continue my work on visible difference, a topic that is currently unique in the Czech context. I am delighted that, thanks to the support of FSS OU, I was able to build a network of colleagues abroad whom I can rely on in my future work and with whom I can develop new projects right here in Ostrava.

If you are interested in the topic of visible difference or would like to learn more about my research and experiences from CAR, please do not hesitate to contact me!