Going away on exchange to Lausanne, Switzerland for one year was the most transformative and incredible experience of my life. I experienced a whole new world and a new life that will stick with me forever, and for which I am eternally grateful.
Lausanne is a lively city filled with stunning views, buildings, parks, great restaurants, and an incredible waterfront. I lived in a residence building just outside the city, very close to campus. Living there offered many perks: I was around a lot of other exchange students, the residence is next to a metro stop, and it’s walking-distance from campus and the lake. The area is stunning, and walking around felt and looked like a dream.
The student life is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced prior to going to Switzerland. There are events for exchange students organized by ESN (Erasmus Student Network), organized by the itself, and others organized by the city of Lausanne. The best part is that they are happening all the time! These events and activities were fantastic ways to meet people and make new friends. Some of my best memories from exchange are experiences with ESN. There were weekend trips, day trips, evening outings, and full-day events. I formed lifelong friendships with people all over the world, which is pretty amazing!
As an aspiring French teacher, living in a French-speaking country was very special to me. My French skills and accent greatly improved, and my confidence in French grew a lot. I really enjoyed taking courses in French and having classmates who were as passionate about the language as I am. I also made so many French-speaking friends with whom I conversed daily. I truly believe no amount of studying in Ontario would’ve gotten me to where I am now. Immersing myself into the French language – both academically and socially – was the way to go!
The nature in Switzerland is especially stunning. The Swiss Alps offer so many incredible experiences and activities. I did a lot of hiking and skiing with my friends, and it was so much fun! I even went paragliding on my last day in Switzerland, where I felt like a bird, and couldn’t believe how insane and awesome it was. Outdoor activities and events in Switzerland are the way to go! The views and weather are divine. I thank the reliable and easy-to-use train system, because that’s how we got around to all these different places. Thank you SBB CFF FFS for your service.
Going away on exchange challenged me in new ways that helped me grow tremendously. I stepped outside my comfort zone and saw a new side of the world and of myself. I recommend going on exchange to anyone who has the opportunity to. It was a lifechanging experience that I will hold onto forever!
