From Singapore to Switzerland

Edmund Chan, 27th July 2011

As always, in any start of a class, there is a 'ritual' in which we will all take turns and introduce ourselves to unfamiliar eyes - this can sometimes be dreadful. However, as a hospitality student, I believe this somehow has to be born within our blood to learn to speak up and introduce ourselves, especially in front of our guests. So as it came to my turn. I projected my voice and said with jubilant, "Hi! I'm Edmund and I'm from Singapore(Proudly) and I'm doing Bachelors of Art in Hospitality and Events Management(BAHE)!".

Honestly, it was never in my intentions to take part in this blog. I had thought about the other commitment to school and my little private time to getaway and enjoy this beautiful country.But then it struck me! I can actually share my experiences, good or bad, with the people around me or who don't even know me. This was a chance for me to polish my writing  skills( yes the dissertation is on my mind!). 6 months on campus and another 6 months on internship, a year is all I have in Switzerland. I thought, "What a better way to spend my time in Switzerland!".

                                                    

Singaporean students taking a group photo outside school.

On top of Mt Pilatus !!!

From the time I stepped out of the airplane, till I set foot in my room in IMI, there were literally thousands of 'Woos!' and 'Wows!' that ran through my mind. Switzerland is indeed a beautiful country! After unpacking, we began to explore the area around our school. It was a cultural shock! Why?! Because the people here are so warm-hearted and friendly. We were greeted time and again by the friendly smiles and greetings from the locals while exploring the place. We learnt that Mount Pilatus was just behind the school. What a great view to have around our school! 

Trying to make 'contact' with the cows.

The nature, the view and not forgetting the cow bells which seems now to be innocent but  I am sure will be 'lethal' in time to come, will definitely bring about a whole new experience for me. As Singaporeans, we hardly have the chance to appreciate and feel nature in our bustling city-life. With another 6 months ahead, I'm sure that there will be tonnes of experiences right around the corner in this beautiful town just waiting for us to discover.