Tell us a little bit about your experience. For starters, why did you choose the program that you did?
I chose the Geneva program because I didn’t just want to study international relations from a distance — I wanted to be in the places where it’s actually practiced. Geneva is home to organizations like the UN, WTO, and ICRC, so it felt like the most direct way to see how global policy works in real time. I also wanted a mix of structure and freedom, and this program gave me both: scheduled briefings and seminars, but also room to explore and think on my own terms.
What did you gain from the experience?
I gained a clearer sense of what international work actually looks like — not just in theory, but in the day-to-day reality of global organizations. I also walked away with more confidence in how I navigate unfamiliar spaces, ask questions, and engage with complex topics. The experience challenged how I see international politics, but also helped me trust my ability to be part of that conversation.
What unique Experiential Global Learning opportunities did you encounter during your time?
We visited the ICRC and sat in on a real panel about neutrality in humanitarian conflict zones — not a simulation, but actual practitioners talking through policy dilemmas. We also toured the WTO and heard directly from someone who works in trade negotiation. These kinds of experiences just don’t happen in a regular classroom. Being in Geneva gave me access to the spaces where global decisions are made, and that kind of exposure really stuck with me.
How has Experiential Global Learning helped you to understand and appreciate your program’s field of study?
It helped me see how international relations and political economy actually function outside of academic theory. Hearing directly from people working in diplomacy, trade, and humanitarian law gave me a more realistic view of how complex and layered these systems are. It also made me appreciate how much context and negotiation go into every decision — things that don’t always show up in textbooks. Being in Geneva gave me the chance to connect what I’ve been learning to real institutions and real issues.
What would you say is your most memorable moment from the trip?
One of the most memorable days was when a few of us took a day trip to Annecy, just across the border in France. The town felt like something out of a painting. The water was so blue and clear with mountains in the background, and little cobblestone streets with cafés everywhere. We ended up swimming in the lake with locals and other students, totally unplanned. It was one of those rare moments where everything slowed down with no schedule and no agenda, just enjoying where we were. It was a reminder of how important it is to always leave space for trying something new!
Tip(s) you’d give for future students participating in a program or those who are just starting to think about an experience
Bring one good outfit. You’ll thank yourself! Also, don’t over-plan everything. Some of the best parts of my experience came from random side trips, conversations, or events I didn’t expect to go to. Stay open, stay flexible, and don’t be afraid to feel a little lost at first — that’s kind of the point.