Reflections on Glion in Switzerland: A Personal Experience

My experience at Glion in Switzerland has been largely negative, and I am sharing these thoughts with fellow students to provide a balanced perspective on the institution. There are several aspects that stood out to me, some of which I believe could be improved for the benefit of all international students, especially those from India.

Placement Support: Concerns for Indian Students

One of the most significant issues I faced at Glion is the lack of support for Indian students during the placement process. The placement officers, such as Domique, often use vague excuses to avoid providing job opportunities to Indian students, despite the institution claiming a 90% placement rate. This discrepancy raises serious questions about the authenticity of their placement records.

Domique, the placement officer, made some unflattering comments about Indian students, suggesting that they sweat a lot and then stink. Such comments not only hurt but also affect the morale of Indian students who are already under immense pressure to perform. Unfortunately, the reality faced by many Indian students is that they end up working in Indian hotels, earning around INR 20,000 per month, which is far from the dream of many who invested heavily in this education.

Infrastructure and Atmosphere: Not Ideal for Learning

Another aspect that disappointed me is the infrastructure and atmosphere of the campus. The Bulle campus is described as extremely boring and not conducive to learning. Being far away from lively cities, the surroundings are stark and isolated, which can make it difficult to feel connected to the local culture and community.

The food at Glion is another major concern, particularly for vegetarians. The menu is divided into normal and veg categories, making it seem as though non-veg options are the norm and veg options are the exception. Furthermore, the food is often of poor quality, with complaints about the lack of variety and disappointingly simple meals like dishwash after dishwash. This is not only a waste of time but also detracts from the learning experience.

Inclusive Policies and Financial Considerations

Glion has a policy allowing students to opt out after the first week if the climate or altitude does not suit them. This can leave students feeling vulnerable and in a difficult spot. Moreover, the institution has policies in place to target financially weak students, leading to a situation where many take loans to finance their education, only to struggle to find a decent job upon graduation.

Additionally, the overall cost of studying at Glion is quite high. Being a private institution, the fees are even more exorbitant. It's important to weigh these costs against the potential benefits, especially for those with financial constraints.

Alternatives for International Students

Given the challenges at Glion, it may be more beneficial for international students to consider alternative options that offer better support and opportunities. Places like the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia are often cited as alternatives. These countries have a lower cost of living and more open student visa policies. Moreover, the job market in these countries is often more receptive to international students, offering better career prospects and fewer discrimination issues.

For those who do choose to study in Switzerland, it's important to do thorough research and consider other public institutions that may offer a more supportive environment and better placement rates.

Concluding Thoughts

While my experience at Glion has been challenging and frustrating, I understand that everyone's journey is unique. Some students may have had more positive experiences. However, for those who are planning to study abroad, it's crucial to gain a well-rounded understanding of the institution and its policies. Sharing your experiences on platforms like Quora can also provide valuable insights for future students.

By sharing these reflections, my goal is to help others make informed decisions and avoid similar challenges. Despite the difficulties, if you believe in yourself and the quality of your education, you can overcome these obstacles.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out. Remember, success in your career doesn't just depend on your education; it's about the right choices and opportunities.