Beyond Borders: The Diversity Chronicles

By Arista Dalal, Student Life Editor of The Graduate Press

Beyond Borders is a monthly column spotlighting the unique experiences of students from diverse backgrounds at the Graduate Institute. Each month, we dive into the stories, challenges, and joys faced by students from a different nationality or culture, offering insights to help future students navigate the ups and downs of life in Geneva. A lot of these experiences, resonate with people across cultures, creating a unique kind of “bonding through joy and misery” that transcends borders and backgrounds.Through personal stories, tips, and recommendations, we aim to celebrate our global community and foster a deeper understanding of the incredible diversity that enriches our campus. 

“La Dolce Vita in Geneva: Navigating Swiss Life Through Italian Eyes“

Geneva, with its tranquil lakeside views and precise orderliness, might seem worlds apart from the lively piazzas and chaotic traffic of Italy. Yet, for the Italian students at the Graduate Institute, this city offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards that shape their journey abroad. Alice Scomazzon, a second-year M.A. student in International Relations/Political Science at IHEID, and Silvia Zinchiri, a second-year student in the Master in International and Development Studies (MINT) specialising in Human Rights, are two vibrant voices from our Italian student community. They shared their experiences navigating the Swiss way of life with a distinct Italian flair.

The Challenge of Finding Balance 

Arriving in Geneva often means balancing excitement with adjustment. For Alice, the thrill of participating in everything came with a price: “I felt the need to participate in every event organized by the University. I wanted to meet many people and didn’t want to miss out on anything. This didn’t allow me to carve out time for myself and process all the changes happening in my life.”

Silvia, who had previously studied in the Netherlands, described her move as a “transition to a new mindset,” not just geographically but also academically and socially. “The biggest challenge was moving from the Netherlands to Switzerland, as the environment was very different. I missed my friends and my community,” she shared.

Cultural Contrasts: Swiss Rules Meet Italian Warmth

Adjusting to Geneva’s culture was another hurdle, albeit a fascinating one. “The respect for traffic rules here is a revelation,” Alice said, highlighting a sharp contrast to Italy, where such rules are often treated more flexibly.

Silvia found Geneva’s organization intriguing but missed the spontaneity of Italy. “In Geneva, everything is very well-organized. It’s different from the more chaotic but warm environment I’m used to back home,” she noted.

A Taste of Home

Italian cuisine is a cornerstone of both students’ lives, and Geneva’s offerings don’t always measure up. Alice confessed, “Pizza is the dish I miss the most, but I’ve found a good place near my home called ‘Pizzeria da Michele,’ where it’s quite good.”

For Silvia, the longing is more personal. “I miss every dish from my grandma—parmigiana, lasagna—and I haven’t found any places here that serve anything close,” she lamented. Both students recommend Sapori d’Italia, an Italian store near Cornavin, though they agree it’s pricey. Silvia also stocks up during trips home or ventures to nearby France for essentials.

What They Wish They’d Packed

When asked about packing regrets, Alice’s answer was heartwarming: “A photo with my parents.” Silvia took a more practical approach: “I wish I could go back and bring groceries from Italy. Honestly, I miss my food the most.”

Keeping the Italian Spirit Alive

Alice stays connected to her roots through frequent calls with family and occasional Italian dinners. “Sometimes, for certain dinners, I prepare carbonara or tiramisu. It’s my way of bringing home here,” she explained.

Silvia balances her Italian identity with a desire to immerse herself in international culture. “I have Italian friends here, and we meet monthly for dinners, but I try not to stick only with Italians. I don’t want to only speak Italian,” she said.

Comfort in New Places

Homesickness often leads to creative solutions. Alice finds comfort in cooking, though her favorite dish to prepare in Geneva isn’t Italian: “I love making rice with chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry.” Silvia’s comfort food of choice is simpler: “Baci Perugina chocolates or pizza—but I haven’t found any places that remind me of home.”

Over time, both have grown to appreciate Geneva’s quirks. “At first, I didn’t like Bain de Paquis or Bongo Joe, but now they’re two places I go to very often,” Alice revealed. Silvia had a similar experience: “I didn’t like how quiet everything was, but now I love it. It’s a love-hate relationship.”

The weather also stands out in their reflections. “Winters in Geneva are gray and windy. In my hometown, it’s often sunny and hardly ever windy,” Alice shared. Silvia, however, found Geneva’s misty weather familiar: “It’s pretty much the same as back home, just a bit more foggy.”

Embracing the Graduate Experience: Advice for Thriving in Geneva

Both emphasised the importance of making the most of the Graduate Institute’s vibrant community. “Enjoy Geneva and the Graduate community—it’s amazing and will make you feel at home,” Alice advised. Silvia added, “Don’t get stuck in a routine. Try new places, pick up hobbies, and make your weekends adventurous.”

Their advice is both practical and inspiring. Alice urged future students to step out of their comfort zones: “Try to step out of the ‘Graduate-GM-Picciotto bubble’ and participate in initiatives organized by local associations or the city. The Graduate Institute will change your life and how you perceive reality.”

Silvia’s message was similar: “Don’t just stay in the international bubble. Keep finding new activities, try new places, and be adventurous. Geneva has so much to offer if you look beyond the routine.”