Semester in Lausanne, Switzerland
Kundhavi Tiruchinapalli (CIT, '26) spent a spring semester studying abroad in Lausanne, Switzerland. Kundhavi says:
What is your favorite memory from your time abroad?
Going to Migros to get my croissant before my metro ride to EPFL campus each morning! They were always so warm, and nothing could beat them!
How has living in a different culture challenged or expanded your perspective on the world?
I have learned how different people live and what their perspectives on the world are. Many people I met had never been to America before, so it was exciting to be American in front of them and challenge the stereotype. I was able to see how different and unique everyone's life experience has been in terms of day-to-day activities, and it really taught me to embrace something new. I really was able to see that what is considered normal for others around the world, for example, many people rarely use English, and it pushed me to embrace the French language and culture as well, and be excited to take part in something new.
What were some unexpected challenges you faced while abroad, and what strategies did you use to overcome them?
I didn’t know any French at all! Not even any numbers! I really struggled to get around because everything in public was written in French, and I couldn't really find people who spoke English well. I was taking a beginner French course there to learn and adapt, and I actually loved it so much that I began to seriously pursue learning how to speak French. My excitement to learn the language helped me pick up words and phrases really quickly, and by the time it was my last week there, I could understand people around me speaking.
What personal growth have your experienced during your time abroad and how has it impacted your future goals and aspirations?
I feel like I’ve become a pro at navigating life in a new place. Being in a completely new environment made me more adaptable and independent, whether that meant navigating an unfamiliar language, communicating across cultural differences, or embracing new ways of thinking. I learned how to be comfortable with uncertainty and to approach challenges with curiosity rather than hesitation. I quickly learned how to do my groceries, use public transport, and even go to the doctor by figuring it all out myself. As a civil engineer, I love transportation, and using the Swiss train system definitely heightened my interest in rail and transit. I would love to pursue this in the future, and the Swiss system created a model for me to learn from!
Any advice for other students thinking of studying abroad?
Get out of your comfort zone, try learning a new language, and speak to people from there. They have so much to offer in terms of culture, and their perspective of the world can help shape yours! Try to wander to cool cities and places that you've never heard of. Go for walks in your city, get to know the streets, and just make yourself feel like a local as soon as possible. Discover your local grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants and go experience something new every day.