There is one sector of the Czech Republic that outdoes American service. They have offered assistance and information, invited me to their classes and seminars, introduced me to their colleagues, served me tea or coffee and even taken me to lunch, and asked nothing in return. I like to think that faculty everywhere are dedicated to their students and their disciplines and receptive to links with other universities. But I have never met such warm hospitality as I have here. Unlike most business people, we academics don't quit at the end of the day.
Many professors try to overcome their low salaries with outside consulting work, also after hours.
Most of us have family responsibilities as well. Faculty here don't have it so bad, however. Since 1990, they've had free rein in redesigning curricula and creating new programs and courses. Most academics value their autonomy and enjoy learning new things and sharing their knowledge with others. Exchange programs have been set up, both for students and for faculty.