Author: Madison Glaus | Major: Political Science | Semester: Summer 2025

Hiking in the Swiss Alps!

This summer, I had the privilege of studying abroad in Geneva, Switzerland, through SIT’s International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy program. I spent six weeks immersed in the heart of international cooperation, surrounded by institutions like the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. My interest in Switzerland and this program was sparked by my passion for international politics and human rights. As a political science major with a deep interest in constitutional law and diplomacy, I was drawn to Geneva’s reputation as a global hub for multilateralism and peacebuilding. The opportunity to study diplomacy not just from a textbook, but by walking into the very institutions where international decisions are made, felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The academic experience was both rigorous and transformative. Our seminar-style classes covered topics such as multilateral negotiations, global governance, and humanitarian law. We had the chance to meet with diplomats, scholars, and experts in the field, the very people whose work I’ve read about in my classes back home. One standout moment was visiting the United Nations Office at Geneva. Sitting in a room where high-stakes negotiations happen regularly reminded me why I chose to study political science in the first place.Another highlight was conducting a primary-source research project as part of my final assignment. I interviewed Dr. Marília Maciel, a senior researcher at the DiploFoundation, whose work on cybersecurity and digital governance aligned with my interest in modern threats to democracy. Her insights on cognitive warfare and the role of social media in international relations deepened my understanding of the intersection between technology and diplomacy. While the academic elements of the program were incredibly enriching, my experience was made even more meaningful by the personal moments in between. I spent afternoons picnicking by Lake Geneva, exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Town, and taking spontaneous day trips with new friends to nearby cities like Lausanne and Annecy. One weekend, a few of us took the train into the Alps, where we hiked up into the clouds and paused to take in the surreal beauty of Switzerland. Those moments reminded me that growth doesn’t just happen in classrooms, but happens in conversations, on mountaintops, and over shared meals. Studying abroad in Switzerland was unlike anything I’ve experienced at the University of Arkansas. While campus life in Fayetteville has its own sense of community, being in an international city where every street corner has a different language, culture, or cuisine was a constant reminder of the diversity and complexity of the world. It was also humbling. I was challenged to step outside of my comfort zone daily, such as navigating public transportation in French, adjusting to a more independent academic structure, and learning how to slow down and savor unfamiliar experiences. One of the most valuable lessons I’ll carry forward is this: diplomacy doesn’t always look like formal meetings and big speeches. Sometimes, it looks like listening closely, asking betterquestions, and learning to see through someone else’s lens. This program taught me that understanding global politics requires both intellectual study and emotional intelligence To any students considering study abroad: go. It’s easy to overthink the logistics or get intimidated by the unknown, but nothing compares to the kind of learning that happens when you step outside of your regular life. Be prepared for moments of uncertainty, of cultural confusion, and even homesickness. But also be prepared for awe, inspiration, and a clearer sense of who you are and what matters to you. As I return to the University of Arkansas, I’m more motivated than ever to pursue a career in diplomacy or human rights law. This experience gave me a glimpse into the world I want to be part of and the tools I’ll need to get there.