Two students, one goal: Study Abroad in Mexico

Choosing the University

It was not planned from the beginning that both would end up in Mexico together. For Arjen Pels, a semester abroad had been part of the plan from early on. Curdin Sauser, on the other hand, only came up with the idea later. A trip to Barcelona became the turning point: “I realized I had to take this opportunity – otherwise I would regret it.”

Their starting points also differed when it came to choosing the destination. “For me, the location wasn’t initially that important,” says Arjen. Recommendations from his network first led him in a completely different direction. It was only when the opportunity suddenly arose to go abroad together with Curdin that Mexico became a real option. Curdin, on the other hand, had clear criteria: a Spanish-speaking country, a strong cultural contrast to Switzerland, and a study programme that would fit well into his Bachelor’s degree. In the end, both made the same choice.

Between expectations and reality

The time leading up to their departure was marked by curiosity, but also uncertainty. “Many people asked me whether it wasn’t too dangerous,” Arjen says. He had no personal experience – his image of Mexico was mainly shaped by the media. For Curdin as well, safety was the only real concern.

The first few days already left a lasting impression. An intensive orientation week, international students from all over the world, and numerous welcome events made settling in easy. “It felt like being in an American college movie,” Arjen describes the atmosphere. Curdin particularly remembers the people: “That openness and warmth impressed me immediately.”

The campus itself was also a completely new experience for both of them: a spacious, modern environment with extensive infrastructure, diverse leisure activities, and a vibrant campus life. For Arjen, it almost felt like a small world of its own – with sports facilities, courses, events, and even freely roaming animals such as deer, peacocks, and ducks.

Learning in real life

Instead of traditional exams, the focus was mainly on group work, projects, and real-world problem solving. “You work on real challenges from companies – that makes up a big part of the assessment,” says Curdin. Arjen adds: “It’s less about memorising facts and more about actually applying what you learn.” At the same time, the environment offered space for personal development outside the classroom – whether through courses like salsa or through intense exchange with students from all over the world.

Between lectures and adventure

The structure of the semester – several blocks with free weeks in between – made it possible to explore Mexico in depth. The two travelled to Guatemala, Oaxaca, Costa Rica, and La Paz, where they also started scuba diving. They were particularly impressed by the colourful and culturally diverse cities in the south. The country’s diversity – both in landscapes and culture – turned Mexico into an experience that went far beyond everyday student life.

What remains

After around four and a half months, what remains is more than just a collection of impressions. For Curdin, it is above all the personal relationships and experiences: “I leave with a head full of memories – and I know I will come back.” At the same time, saying goodbye was not easy. Arjen takes away a new perspective: “Many things we take for granted in Switzerland only work because of clear structures and rules.” What sometimes used to bother him, he now understands and appreciates much more.

A shared conclusion

Even though their journeys started differently, both arrive at the same conclusion: a semester abroad is far more than studying in another country. It is a shift in perspective, a personal challenge – and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Or, simply put: just do it.