Emily's Swiss journey

Emily stood in her cozy, modern dorm room in Switzerland, looking out at the breathtaking view of the mountains. She still found it hard to believe she was really here. Growing up in Greece, she’d often daydreamed about Switzerland, its pristine landscapes, world-renowned hospitality schools, and a culture so different from her own. And now, here she was, living that dream. It had been only five months since the announcement, but those months were a whirlwind. The day she received the acceptance email felt like a surreal blur. She still remembered the way her heart raced as she opened the email from her university, breath held. "Congratulations, Emily! You have been selected..." were the first words she saw. Life in Switzerland was everything she’d imagined and more. She was adapting to the new culture, the brisk alpine air, and the beautifully punctual public transport. Classes in hospitality management were intense and challenging, with professors who had worked in top hotels around the world. She loved learning the intricacies of managing a five-star hotel, from the fine details of customer service to the complex logistics of catering and event planning. Though the academic workload was high, Emily found joy in every new experience. Her classmates were from all over the world—China, Brazil, the United States, and beyond. They’d often meet in the cafeteria or for coffee, sharing stories of their home countries and dreams for the future. But there were also moments of homesickness. Swiss life was orderly, precise, and sometimes a little intimidating, especially coming from Greece, where life was slower and more relaxed. She missed the bustling cafes of Athens, her family’s laughter at the dinner table, and the familiar warmth of her friends. However, each time she felt homesick, she reminded herself why she was here—to fulfill her dreams and to grow. On weekends, she would often explore Lucerne the city she lives in, getting lost in the beauty of that place and the charming alpine villages. She felt a deep sense of gratitude for every new experience and connection she made.