This semester I’m calling Konvikt home! A student dorm in Chur that has quickly become like a little United Nations! People from all over the world are living and learning together, like one big family.
My first taste of Switzerland was the train ride from Zurich to Chur. landscapes shifting from city scenes to endless mountains. I’ve lived in big cities like Cairo, Warsaw, and Dubai, so the idea of a small town was new to me. But Chur has completely won me over with its natural beauty, where I’m surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and fresh air every day.
The people here have been a great surprise, too. I’d heard Swiss people could be distant, but I found them welcoming, warm, and always smiling. People even greet you on the street, asking how you’re doing even if you’re totally a stranger! This friendliness, along with their punctuality, makes life here super organized and easygoing. The Swiss are very efficient; even handling immigration documents was smooth, which made moving here less stressful.
Chur’s outdoor activities have been a big highlight. I never thought I’d become so much fan of hiking, but each trail I’ve taken has been challenging and unforgettable. And the cable car here? It’s the best way to experience the mountains up close! I’ve been diving into all the local events. I attended a Schlager event that was joyful! It was a fantastic opportunity to meet other students and experience Swiss culture up close. Especially the taste of the local music! In my free time, I like to take my lovely bike around Chur and nearby villages. The green fields, cows, and small farms make it a peaceful break from the busy streets of the city and bring me close to nature.
The food in Switzerland has been another surprise. Fondue and all types of cheese has become one of my favorites, and I’m a big fan of Rivella, a Swiss soft drink made with milk! That’s surprisingly good. Also, I had an unforgettable experience visiting a chocolate factory with Lotti and Nicole from the International Office, where I made chocolate with my own hands for the first time. which tasted as good as you’d expect from the Swiss.
Studying here is different from my university in Warsaw. Classes follow a “day block” system, where we focus on one subject for a full day. At first, spending eight hours on the same subject felt challenging, but it helped me understand the topics deeply. The professors here are supportive, creative, and open to questions, which keeps the classes interesting and makes those long days manageable and genuinely useful.
One standout part of this program has been the chance to visit the headquarters of major companies like Sunrise in Zurich, Migros, and EWZ. Meeting managers there gave us real insights into how companies run and operate. Talking directly with industry professionals and seeing how they face industry challenges gave me a practical and real world perspective. It’s given me a clearer picture of what to expect in the workforce, and I feel better prepared for whatever comes next.
This exchange has been more than just a semester abroad. It’s been a journey of personal growth, adventure, and incredible memories. I’ve experienced new things, made amazing friends, and fallen in love with Switzerland’s peaceful way of life! This experience has been a meaningful part of my education. Living in Chur has shown me a different way of life. I’ve traded big-city chaos for mountain views and the green nature! Without any hesitation, I will come back to Chur! 😊
