University of Wisconsin–Madison

Switzerland: Elizabeth Cahill

Program: SIT Global Health and Development Policy, Spring

Major: Genetics and Genomics; Sociology

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

The most memorable experience was having a homestay family. A homestay was the only option for a living situation, which I was hesitant about. They matched us up based on our interests, and I ended up in a small farm village with a mother-daughter duo. I learned so much about their interests, lifestyle, opinions, etc., and it was a fantastic opportunity to immerse myself in Swiss culture fully.

A student smiles widely with her face facing upwards and hands outstretched. She is on a dirt trail with the ocean visible in the background and the sun shining brightly with no clouds in the sky.
This is me during my hike in Cinque Terre!

What is the moment you are most proud of?

I’m very proud of my independent study project. During the semester, I focused on access to the BRCA test and the extent to which it facilitates genetic equity. I had the ability to interview a French genetic counselor working in Geneva, whose conversation secured my interest in pursuing genetic counseling as a career. My project ended up being the top 6 in the class, and I’m very proud of my nuanced topic.

quotation mark
I had the ability to interview a French genetic counselor working in Geneva, whose conversation secured my interest in pursuing genetic counseling as a career.

How did your identities impact your experience? What advice would you give to students with similar identities who are considering a similar experience?

As Switzerland is a very diverse (at least nationality-wise) nation, I interacted with many people from all around Europe. I learned how the Swiss criticize America, and I appreciated their perspective on how Americans could lead a better life/America could be a better, more inclusive nation. I’d say that if you’re an American student going abroad, listen to people’s opinions on America without being defensive, and think critically about it. It could open your eyes to the imperfections that you may have never thought about, but could act on.

What challenges or barriers did you face as you prepared to go abroad and/or during your time abroad? How did you work through them?

I had an issue with my homestay sister, who clearly did not like the idea of having an American staying in her home. I tried to get her to like me and succeeded eventually, but her poor attitude was constant. It taught me that some people are just stuck in their ways, and that I shouldn’t waste time or energy in caring about their negative traits.