Maddie Smith

Teaching, Trains, and Toblerone: My Swiss Year Abroad

Hear from Modern Languages graduate, Maddie Smith about studying with a Year Abroad at University.

What did you study at Kent, and where did you do your year abroad?


I studied French and did my year abroad in the Jura Mountains in Switzerland, working as an English Language Assistant in a College.

How did you find the process? (finance, accommodation, choosing where to go, etc.)

Honestly, it involves quite a lot of admin, but it is completely worth it! The university's Year Abroad Team helped me a lot with ensuring that I had completed all the necessary paperwork and preparation. As long as you stay organised, you’ll be okay! A good old to-do list came in very handy.

Because I chose to work abroad rather than study, I had to organise more things myself, such as accommodation, but I had no problem sorting these out. The organisation I worked with provided me with various websites and contacts to find accommodation, and in the end, I found somewhere via a Facebook group for the town I lived in!

In terms of choosing where to go, the more flexible you are, the better. I didn’t specify a place in Switzerland or an age group, and because of this, I was placed somewhere very easily! My application was accepted quickly, and I didn’t have many expectations - so I was very pleasantly surprised by what I was given.

Before moving, make sure you have a list of everything you need to do once you arrive so you can get started straight away. Also, research the specific requirements of the country you are moving to, as they all differ. The first month after I moved was crucial for sorting out admin tasks, ensuring I had all the correct documents to live there, and opening a bank account. However, once I completed these, I had nothing to worry about for the rest of the year.  

How did studying/working abroad differ from studying in the UK?


The main difference is that you have a lot more freedom and independence—it's up to you what you do with it! There will be many times when you have to put yourself out there, go to events alone, or step out of your comfort zone in some way. Just go for it! 

When I first moved, I tried to attend as many things as possible, always with an open mind, and I never regretted it. Even if you try something and it doesn’t go well, or you don’t connect with people, keep trying! These experiences will shape your year and help you grow in so many ways. It may feel scary at first, but it really does get easier.  

What did you do in your free time?


I decided to try lots of different things. I went to a bouldering centre in my town, visited the local jazz bar, went to church, but mostly - I travelled! If you can, I definitely recommend getting some sort of travel card that gives you the freedom to explore as much as you’d like. This will keep you motivated and encourage you to take spontaneous trips because you already have the means to do so!

I loved getting on a train and randomly choosing a place to visit. I often invited others to join me, but I also learned not to be afraid of going alone. It’s really fun! Your confidence will grow, and you will make memories—good and bad (which will probably turn into funny stories later)!  

What was the highlight of your time abroad?

I think my highlight would be my job, particularly the friendships I built with my students. Teaching English was an incredibly rewarding experience, and my year abroad showed me that I want to pursue this as a career!
It was amazing to see my students grow in skill and confidence over the year. Spending an hour with them each week was a privilege. I loved learning about their lives and sharing my culture with them. We also spent a lot of time playing games, which was a lot of fun!  

Why would you recommend studying/working abroad to other students?

You won’t have another experience like it—it’s utterly unique. It was, without a doubt, the best decision I made during university, and it completely changed my university experience for the better. 

Having a break from my degree in Canterbury meant that I returned for my final year with a fresh perspective and newfound motivation for my studies. I felt more mature, independent, and empowered. 

I also left university feeling prepared for the real world, having already had a taste of independence during my year abroad. I didn’t just graduate with a degree—I graduated with profound experiences of living in another country and a stronger sense of purpose and excitement for my future.