And how are things in Zürich?
Grüezi Mitenand! It the Swiss German way of saying ‘good day’ in About three months ago Samantha Basalo Vázquez and I embarked on an adventure: an Erasmus minor at the Department of Chemistry of the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) in Zurich, Switzerland. After months of preparing, filling out forms, and sending in Erasmus applications, it was official: we were accepted to one of the world’s best universities.
Everyone can imagine the beauty of Switzerland, with its snow-capped mountains and valleys with glistering lakes. Although Zurich and surroundings may be considered almost flat compared to the rest of Switzerland, it’s still almost 150 meters above the Vaalserberg, the highest point in the Netherlands. The highest point here is the Uetliberg (869m), and it provides a breathtaking view of the city and its lake, the Zürichsee. Zurich is the largest city of Switzerland, although with only 380.000 inhabitants it’s hardly a metropolis. Still, that’s exactly what gives the city its charming appeal.
Absolutely everything in Zurich is of the very best quality, be it a cup of coffee or public transport. And although all that definitely comes at a price, it’s rather worth it most of the time!
There are two ETH locations in the city. There’s a historical site in the city center, and a new complex on the Hönggerberg, where the Department of Chemistry is the largest.
Apart from very interesting courses in biochemistry and inorganic chemistry, I’ve also been granted the privilege to work in a research group of a professor here. The project gives me a really good insight in scientific research, and how it feels to be working at the frontiers of science. Of course, planning and preparing for a minor in a foreign country takes a lot of work and time, but the amazing memories and experiences you’ll get in return are well worth it! Studying abroad is something you’ll cherish for the rest of your, and I strongly recommend it to everyone.
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