Tell us a little bit about your experience. For starters, why did you choose the program that you did?
Studying in Switzerland was such an eye-opening experience for me. With how busy I usually am, both my interests and the timing had to line up perfectly—and somehow, this one did. During the school year, I’m involved in multiple clubs, and my summers are usually packed with internships. Luckily, this sustainability program fell right in between my internship and the start of the semester, and it also tied directly into my construction management focus on sustainability and green building. It goes to show that there really is something out there for everyone, no matter how packed your schedule might be.
What did you gain from the experience?
I gained a deeper appreciation for green spaces, public transportation, and my own independence through this experience. Growing up with immigrant parents, travel wasn’t something we did often, so going to Europe alone was a huge step for me. It was my first time leaving the country, my first time traveling completely on my own, and for an extended period as well. That in itself gave me a strong sense of independence and confidence. What stood out most to me was how seamlessly greenery is incorporated into everyday life in Switzerland. From parks and walking paths to benches tucked into quiet corners, nature felt like an intentional and essential part of the urban environment. I found myself constantly in awe of how accessible and well-preserved these spaces were, and I took every opportunity to pause and soak it all in. I was also impressed by Zurich’s public transportation system. Being able to get anywhere with ease by train, tram, or bus made me reflect on the possibilities for more sustainable and connected cities back home. Overall, this experience not only gave me a fresh perspective on sustainability but also helped me grow personally, pushing me outside my comfort zone while showing me the value of intentional urban design.
What unique Experiential Global Learning opportunities did you encounter during your time?
One of the most unique aspects of this program was the opportunity to travel and explore both within Switzerland and beyond. The accessibility of transportation, combined with the flexibility and free time we were given, made it easy to plan day trips and immerse ourselves in new environments. I was able to visit cities like Basel and Lucerne in Switzerland, as well as Lake Como in Italy. Each destination offered something special—whether it was breathtaking scenery, incredible food, or cultural experiences that made the trip even more memorable.
How has Experiential Global Learning helped you to understand and appreciate your program’s field of study?
Experiential Global Learning helped me better understand sustainability within the context of construction management. Zurich, Switzerland, is an incredible example of sustainable practices—the city has advanced recycling systems, emphasizes minimizing concrete use, and actively works to reduce carbon emissions. These efforts connect directly to challenges in construction, where waste is a major issue. For my final project, I was able to focus on solutions such as rainwater management, concrete minimization, waste-to-energy heating, and circular construction. This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for how sustainability can be applied in my field and inspired me to think more critically about innovative practices in construction management.
What would you say is your most memorable moment from the trip?
My most memorable moment from the trip was visiting Lucerne, Switzerland. We took a cogwheel train 7,000 feet up Mount Pilatus, where we spent the day taking in the breathtaking views and capturing photos. The experience felt so immersive—not only because of the scenery, but also because of the alphorn players whose music echoed beautifully through the mountains. It was a moment that truly captured the magic of Switzerland.
Tip(s) you’d give for future students participating in a program or those who are just starting to think about an experience
My biggest tip for anyone thinking about studying abroad is to JUST DO IT! I was hesitant at first because of the financial side, but there are so many resources to help—UConn scholarships, external ones, and scholarships through EGL. As a Presidential Scholar, I was also able to use my enrichment funds, which made it all possible. If this is something you’re even considering, start planning early and take advantage of every opportunity. It’s so worth it.