Notes on the World – NOW Blog

Learn more about studying abroad on the Switzerland: International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy program through the words of program alumna, Caryn Saslow. Caryn describes her experience studying in Switzerland and the impact the program has had on her life since, including receiving a Fulbright fellowship after graduating from Skidmore College. This fall, Caryn will begin a master’s program at the University of Geneva’s Institute of Environmental Sciences. 

Why did you decide to study abroad with SIT in Switzerland?

The SIT program was a good fit with my international affairs major, and I had always wanted to see Switzerland.

What types of hands-on experiences did you have while studying in Switzerland that advanced your understanding of international affairs?

Every aspect of the SIT Switzerland program facilitated hands-on learning and breathed life into my interest in

Students in the SIT Switzerland program during a meeting at the International Labor Organization in Geneva

international affairs. During my first two years of college, I had learned about international issues through written materials and in the classroom. While abroad, the city of Geneva became my new classroom. Rather than reading about the World Intellectual Property Organization or the International Labor Organization, for example, the program’s thematic seminar allowed us to visit and network with experts from these organizations.

 The program’s Field Studies Seminar provided us with useful research techniques, which were indispensable to the realization of my Independent Study Project.

What was the topic of your Independent Study Project (ISP)? Was your ISP connected to academic work you have pursued since?

My ISP focused on formal education for sustainable development within the developed Western world. (Available online through SIT’s digital collection)

 This one-month project was the most challenging, thought provoking, and rewarding part of the program. I was able to take advantage of Geneva’s resources through interviews with experts from the United Nations Environment Program, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the World Wildlife Fund, the International Peace Bureau, and the Earth Focus Foundation.

Upon my return to the US, I began preparing my Fulbright fellowship application. I wanted to further develop the topic of my ISP by examining education for sustainable development in greater depth within the canton of Geneva.

Receiving a Fulbright grant would not have been possible without the knowledge, skills, experience, confidence, and contacts that I acquired through SIT’s Switzerland program and my education at Skidmore College.

What was it like living with a host family?

Caryn Saslow enjoying time with her host siblings.

Living with a Swiss host family was an unforgettable experience. I learned a great deal about Swiss culture and the

French language and experienced an enriching cultural exchange. I absolutely adored my host family—they were warm, fun, and supportive—and I got to be a “big sister” for the first time in my life!

I was also fortunate enough to spend much of my Fulbright year with my host family, and I will be living with them again this fall as I begin my graduate program.

How has the decision to study abroad with SIT affected your long-term academic and professional goals?

The decision to study abroad with SIT affected my life from the time I returned to the US until this very moment. It was instrumental in preparing me for subsequent studies, including my Fulbright, by helping me develop essential research and interpersonal skills.

 I also very much doubt that I would be attending graduate school in Switzerland this fall (in which all instruction will be in French) had it not been for my semester abroad with SIT.