Switzerland, a Program for the True Traveler

By Bridget O'Toole

Looking to feed your wanderlust? FSU’s study abroad program in Leysin, Switzerland may be just what you need. The Switzerland program’s area of study is Hospitality. So, yes, preference is given to Hospitality majors, but the program is also open to all interested students. If you’re a non-Hospitality and are worried about your chances of being accepted, don’t be! It worked out for me, and I firmly believe that the Switzerland program is one of the best programs for students with a desire to travel but without a major-specific program.

As a student in the Switzerland program, you can take a European Travel and Tourism course. Your homework? Traveling all around Europe and sharing your trip experiences when you get back! Not too shabby, right? Classes are conducted Sunday evening through Tuesday morning. Often times, you will go on a field trip to a gorgeous five star hotel in Switzerland, and from there, you may leave to travel anywhere you want in Europe as long as you are back by Saturday night. The last train up the mountain ends early so you have to be time conscious! But you will be surprised how many places you can see over the course of three days. One week, my little group and I spent a day in Paris, France, a day in Nice, France, and a day at the beach in Monte Carlo—all in one week! I was able to visit more than ten incredible European cities over the course of four weeks. But of course, there are benefits to remaining in one city the whole week, such as having the time to visit all of the famous hot spots. The scope of traveling one does is really up to the individual. 

The mountain life in Leysin, Switzerland is also something to take into consideration. Let me

tell you, having a view of the snow capped mountains while eating a delicious French breakfast will probably be the most relaxing moment of your life. Nothing can beat the view in Switzerland, but don’t worry, just because the mountains are snow capped does not mean you’re going to freeze! The sun will be out every now and then. There will be days when you despise mountain life because of what the students like to call “the stairs from hell.” While walking down them isn’t a problem, you will be challenged walking up them in the high altitude. Just remember that the view at the top is worth it.

In general, the Hospitality program is so much fun—especially when you’re a guest at a hospitality business as opposed to a stressed out employee. As a student in this program, you have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals when you visit five star hotels with classic architecture, restaurants with five course meals, and spas with amazing jacuzzis. To be able to visit these high quality destinations is a huge bonus for anyone living on a college budget. One of the best trips is the trip to Balmers Hostel in Interlacken, Switzerland. Here you will learn about the hostel business. This trip is also a great initial experience where you can get to know your group members better and where you can meet people from around the world.

So if you’re feeling like a Nolemad*, visit FSU International Programs offices (UCA 5th floor) to find out more information on the Switzerland program!

*A Florida State University Seminole (Nole) that likes to travel a lot.