What impressed Selin about Geneva

A semester abroad opens up new horizons – academically, culturally and personally. Selin Bulut, a student in the Marketing & Communication Management degree program at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol, spent her fifth semester at the Haute École de Gestion de Genève (HEG). In practice-oriented courses, she worked with Swiss companies on real projects and made valuable contacts. In addition to the demanding degree program, she discovered the multicultural atmosphere of Geneva, traveled around Switzerland and took part in a TEDxGeneva talk. In her experience report, she explains why she recommends Geneva as an ideal study-abroad destination and shares tips for future exchange students.

“I wanted a university with practical teaching and strong corporate connections – and that's exactly what I found,” she says enthusiastically. In the advanced electives Advanced International Marketing & Sales and Digital Marketing, she got the chance to work directly with Swiss companies on real projects. Another highlight: the professors brought experience from global corporations such as P&G and Unilever. ‘That was an invaluable experience,’ says Selin.

AN UNFORGETTABLE ANECDOTE

But not all of her experiences in Geneva were academic – sometimes the culture shock also provided unforgettable experiences. “A friend and I wanted to go to the movies during our first few days there without checking which language the movie was in,” she recalls with a laugh. “It wasn't until the movie started that we realized it was in French – with French subtitles. Since we both hardly speak French, it was definitely not a worthwhile investment. But we laughed so much about it that it ultimately became one of our fondest memories.”

CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN THE DEGREE PROGRAM

Geneva is considered one of the most international cities in Europe – and this was also reflected in Selin's degree program. “In almost every course, we had to do group work, and my teams were often a colorful mix of locals and Erasmus students from all over the world,” she says. She found it particularly interesting to see how different the working methods were depending on the country of origin. Through this collaboration, she not only gained new perspectives, but also made friends with students from South Korea, Denmark, Belgium and many other countries.

DISCOVERIES FROM LAUSANNE TO LYON

Despite the intensive courses, there was still time to explore the surrounding area. “I wanted to experience Switzerland not only academically, but also culturally,” she says. Together with a friend, she traveled to cities such as Lausanne, Zurich and Basel. A trip to France was also on the program.

But there were also unforgettable moments in Geneva itself – for example, taking part in a TEDxGeneva talk on the topic of Being Intelligent. “Being there live and experiencing these inspiring speakers was incredible,” she enthuses.

INTENSE BUT REWARDING SEMESTER

Of course, the degree program at HEG also presented challenges. “The workload was high, with a lot of group work, almost daily compulsory attendance and between five and ten exams per semester,” she reports. In addition, there were weekly assignments and regular presentations of project updates. “To cope with the high requirements, it was essential for me to always stay on the ball and to exchange ideas with my fellow students,” she explains. In particular, contact with other Erasmus students helped her, as everyone had similar challenges. The professors were also very open and actively supported exchange students. Her tip: ”If you run into difficulties, talk to your teachers early on – they are really helpful!”

Selin Bulut recommends Geneva as a study abroad destination, especially for students who value a strong academic environment and international networking. “The city offers so many opportunities – you just have to take advantage of them!” Her tip for future exchange students: “Find accommodation early, approach people with an open mind and seize every opportunity to learn and network!”

Links:

• Marketing & Communication Management | ft