Living and Studying with Cultures From Around the World

Choosing to study and live in Switzerland has been one of the most important and life-changing decisions I’ve ever made. After 2 years in an international environment, here’s what I’ve learned so far.

The importance of open–mindedness
Thanks to my classmates, I have learned how to be more open-minded and embrace all different ideas. Our differences have taught me to be more culturally sensitive about how I address diverse opinions and views on traditions.

Conflict management is a skill that comes with experience
Learning more about my fellow students and colleagues has helped me become more diplomatic and accepting. I find that the more we learn about each other’s backgrounds the more harmony we have together and ultimately less conflicts arise.

My enthusiasm for life is bigger than ever
My new group of friends has opened me up to be eager to learn even more about different cultures and my travel bug is growing stronger every day. I am so excited to travel the world and discover new things. I now have friends on every continent and I hope to one day see their countries from their perspectives. By the time I finish the tour, maybe I will become Christopher Colombus’ hospitality successor!

Food can be an exciting adventure
Mealtime has become one of my favourite parts of the day because we are either eating a new type of cuisine introduced from someone’s home culture or we are combining our flavours together to invent new dishes. It’s always a culinary adventure!

Diversity is what makes us unique and colourful
I have discovered that the world would be boring if we all lived and did the same things. It is the diversity in our community that makes us unique and colourful. Everyday there is something new to learn. When we embrace and enjoy our differences we are connected together.

About Mason Tasiyana

Mason Tasiyana is a year 2 student from Zimbabwe currently taking his double bachelor’s degree at César Ritz Colleges Switzerland. He loves laughing, traveling, and Chinese chicken fried rice.