Eva Perren

Just like Switzerland, the Swiss Society is a rather tiny society compared to others at UCL. However, keeping this society running and thriving is, in my opinion, essential.

The Swiss Society of UCL is a place for international students to still establish relationships with fellow Swiss and students from other countries. During a study abroad, connections to ‘home’ can suffer but thanks to societies such as the Swiss Society and the socials which come with them, there is a possibility to still feel at least a little at ease. Is it because of speaking your first language or eating Raclette, it’ll all feel like a little piece from home.

My personal experience from a gap year abroad before coming to UCL and now of studying abroad is why I know these little things make a big difference in feeling welcomed and happy, so I want to help to keep this society alive and make people joining us feel as comfortable and welcomed as possible. In my first year of being at UCL my role of an academic representative helped me to gain experience in being responsible and someone others can rely on. In addition to that, I am fluent in German and French, two of the national languages in Switzerland which allows others to approach me in whatever language they feel most at ease in and helps me to support whoever needs it as committed as possible.

I would love to play the more active role of a Welfare Officer, helping to organise socials where members can meet each other and form friendships.