Student Exchange Programme: Juliana’s Experience at SIS Zürich
Escola Nova by SIS Strong Network Bilingualism SIS Zürich
Juliana, how did the opportunity to take part in the SIS Student Exchange Programme come about, and what motivated you most to embark on this experience?
The opportunity came about when my school became part of the SIS Swiss International School network and I was offered the chance to take part in the exchange programme. I was immediately excited about the idea of travelling to Europe for an experience like this. I wanted to learn more about the culture and improve my English and German.
What were your expectations before the trip, and what was it like preparing for the experience?
My expectations were very high. Saying goodbye to my family and friends was very emotional, with farewell gatherings and tears at the airport.
What was it like arriving and adapting to the school in Zürich, your classmates, and your host family? How did being part of the SIS network help you feel welcome?
I felt extremely welcome from my very first day. My host family was very kind and open, and everyone at the school – the teachers, school leaders, and students – made me feel just as welcome. I had an amazing experience settling in!
What caught your attention most during your first few days in terms of Switzerland and the local culture?
What caught my attention most was how easy it is to get to school by train and public transport. All my classmates take the train, just like I do, and I see that as a huge advantage of living in Switzerland.
What is your routine like at SIS Zürich? Have you noticed any differences compared with Escola Nova by SIS?
I adapted easily to the new routine. Classes start a little later than I am used to in Brazil, but that is far from being a problem. I like the school schedule and quickly got used to it.
Has the language been a challenge? How have you been dealing with it?
I have not had any problems with the language. The school has many students from different countries, so all my classmates speak English with each other, as very few of them have German as their first language. I also took German classes before coming here, so I can follow the lessons well and have basic conversations in German.
How are you experiencing cultural exchange? How has being part of an international network like SIS contributed to this experience?
I consider the cultural exchange one of the best parts of my experience. I have met people from all over the world and learned a lot about different cultures.
Has this experience already led to special friendships or connections?
Yes, the friendships I have formed have been an incredible part of my experience. I have become very close both to the girls at my school and to my host family. It was hard to say goodbye.
Is there a special, memorable, or fun moment you would like to share?
My experience has been full of special moments, from going to the mall and laughing all afternoon with my host sister to going on boat trips with the girls from school.
What has been your biggest challenge, and what has this experience taught you about yourself?
I think the biggest challenge was adapting to a different lifestyle. The experience has taught me to look at everyday situations from a different perspective.
In what ways do you feel you have become more independent or mature?
It is hard to narrow it down to just one thing. I think I have matured in many ways because I have had to be responsible for myself. I now feel more prepared to perhaps live abroad in the future, or simply to handle more serious situations on my own.
How might this experience influence your plans for the future?
After this experience, I would like to go to university abroad and experience this kind of lifestyle again.
What advice would you give to students at Escola Nova by SIS who dream of taking part in the SIS Student Exchange Programme?
My main piece of advice is to be kind to everyone and stay open to different points of view.
Interview: Carlos Marapodi, Marketing Analyst, SIS Brazil