Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

If you are interested in global affairs, Geneva is the place to be September 03, 2022

By (International Studies, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor) - abroad from 01/28/2022 to 05/08/2022 with

SIT Study Abroad: Switzerland - International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I expanded my network and learned a ton about human rights and humanitarian work.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Geneva is an excellent location to study international relations. Experts working in all areas of international affairs are extremely eager to share their expertise. I learned a lot during the experiential part of the program, called the "Independent Study Project" or ISP.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Travel requirements were a bit arbitrary and the terms were confusing.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The homestay was a fantastic experience. I learned so much from the Swiss family with whom I stayed, and they treated me like I was part of the family.

* Food:

The food was great! I had a variety of healthy, local dishes.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Especially in Geneva, it can be really easy to get by speaking English. Although that allows students to interact with locals more, it certainly gives students little incentive to practice their French.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The healthcare was truly spectacular. I sprained my foot and the doctors were so professional and responded to my questions and concerns. The insurance ended up covering every single penny. I was pleasantly surprised.

* Safety:

Looting is uncommon, but it may happen, especially in public areas like train stations. However, Switzerland is extremely safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Switzerland is full of incredible destinations, landscapes, activities, and culture in general.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Switzerland is an extremely expensive country, even for American students. There are ways to minimize costs (for example, buying a public transportation plan), but in general, it is not a budget-friendly country.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100 Swiss Francs
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Buy the Swiss pass. It may seem expensive but buying single-ride fares is significantly more costly. Also, Migros generally offers affordable meals.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

I took a French course, but it was easy to get by with English.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? I had not taken French before
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice the language in low-stake daily situations, such as ordering food or getting a haircut.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Switzerland's natural beauty
  • Access to international affairs experts
* What could be improved?
  • Travel policies within Europe imposed by the local program administration were too restrictive
  • The program is too expensive
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Come up with a bucket list early! Don't wait until the last month to start traveling inside Switzerland. If you could choose between traveling to other European countries or traveling within Switzerland, choose the latter.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.