From Barcelona to Winterthur – «How a semester abroad changed my perspective on life»
Alison Velez arrived in Winterthur from Barcelona with high expectations – and was still surprised. During her exchange at the ZHAW School of Engineering, she discov-ered just how hands-on and inspiring engineering studies can be. What stood out to her: the openness of her classmates and professors, the top-notch lab facilities, and the breathtaking Swiss landscapes. In this interview, Alison shares how her semester at ZHAW reshaped her personal and professional goals – and why experiencing Swit-zerland in person is something you shouldn’t miss.
Exchange student: Alison Velez
Place of residence: Barcelona, Spanien
Home university: Polytechnic University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
Degree programme home university: Degree in aerospace systems engineering
Degree programme at ZHAW: Mechanical engineering
Alison, you studied at the ZHAW School of Engineering for a semester abroad. How was your experience?
I loved it. I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to explore part of my career from a different perspective and in a society different from the one I'm used to.
Why did you choose the ZHAW School of Engineering?
I chose Switzerland because it’s known for offering some of the best education in the world. ZHAW had a more practical and interesting program that could really contribute to my professional development, especially by letting me apply theoretical knowledge in real situations.
How did you find your way around the campus and into student life?
Getting around the buildings was easy once I got used to the layout. I really appreciated the introductory week’s tour – it helped me find my first classroom and made everything simpler on the first day.
My classmates were very welcoming. I had two different groups: one where I studied with another exchange student I had already met during orientation, that was great. Our Swiss classmates were incredibly supportive – they shared tips on how to get the most out of Switzerland and made sure we felt included. They even added us to their WhatsApp group! Both the classmates and professors were very attentive, and I never felt out of place.
I worked in a lab group with two students who explained things clearly and encouraged me to get more involved and learn more. I even got to celebrate the Frackwoche party with them, which I loved. It was special to share time with classmates outside of class in such a traditional Swiss celebration.
How was the exchange with the other international students?
It was an amazing experience. Sometimes we think we’re very different because we come from different countries, but in reality, we have a lot in common. And even our differences bring us closer when we take an interest in knowing each other.
Kindness, charisma, and a desire to live life that’s how I will describe the group of exchange students I met. We explored Switzerland together and bonded like a small family. The ESN group was really helpful in making those first connections, but it’s also important to be open and willing to meet new people.
«Especially in engineering, it’s important to face real world situations to prepare for the workplace.»
What is the biggest difference to your home university?
The biggest difference was in the practical work. At ZHAW, we worked with real-life experiments that helped us understand how theory is applied in practice. The materials and equipment were high-quality, which really helped us learn. Especially in engineering, it’s important to face real world situations to prepare for the workplace. The smaller class sizes meant more personal attention from professors, and the classrooms were really comfortable, especially during long lab sessions😊.
What was the most valuable thing you learned?
I’ve learned so much that it’s hard to choose just one thing. Applying everything I had studied made me realize how interesting engineering really is, and it expanded my view of what I can do in this field. This experience motivated me to keep learning. I saw how dedicated both students and professors were. It wasn’t just about passing exams – it’s about delving deeper into them so that we can truly use them in our daily lives.
«It’s something you really have to experience at least once in your life.»
What did you like most about Switzerland and Winterthur?
What I liked most about Switzerland were the landscapes and the people. Maybe I was lucky, but everyone I met was kind and willing to help, even with the language barrier. I already knew the country was famous for its landscapes but seeing them in person was completely different. It’s something you really have to experience at least once in your life. The public transport system is well connected and easy to use, which made exploring the country very convenient. I also loved how peaceful everything felt. That kind of calm is hard to find elsewhere.
Winterthur was also a great place to live. Even though it’s not Zurich, it’s full of life. Thanks to the university, there are many student residences nearby, so you really feel the student energy in the city. And because it’s small, it’s easy to get around and feel at home.
Was there anything that surprised you?
The cost of transportation! I knew Switzerland would be expensive, but while rent and food seemed fair, train and bus fares were much higher than I expected. That said, the punctuality and efficiency of public transport are truly impressive.
Any Highlights? What will you never forget?
There are many moments I’ll remember forever my first time skiing, first day of class, visiting Einstein’s house in Bern, the parties, the barbecues, and the trips. But one of the most memorable experiences was visiting CERN.
I had always heard about particle colliders and the scientific advances happening there, but visiting in person was like a dream come true. Learning about their work and touring the center was fascinating.
«It made me realize that collaboration between fields is essential in science and in life.»
Everyone on the tour – from all the degrees ZHAW offers, not just engineering – got a sense of how different disciplines from all over the world can work together toward a common goal. It made me realize that collaboration between fields is essential in science and in life. The photo you'll see below is a comparison of my size with that of the CMS in real life.
What advice would you give to students thinking about going abroad?
Don’t think twice. It’s truly a life-changing experience, both personally and academically. Learning from two perspectives your home university and ZHAW, helps you grow and prepares you for a diverse world.
Switzerland has so much to offer, whether you're into nature, science, or both. Yes, the cost of living is higher, but it’s manageable and you won’t regret it!
Thank you for sharing, Alison. See you soon?
I'd love to return for my master’s after finishing my degree. This semester helped me realize what I want to do in life – and I’m ready to keep going.