My Experience as a Boarding School Student: A Life-Changing Journey

Boarding school life can be quite the tale to tell. I had the privilege of attending a Catholic boarding school in Lausanne, Switzerland, during a crucial period of my life, from age 13 to 18. It was an experience that shaped me in more ways than I could have imagined, and I cannot recommend it enough for those seeking a unique educational journey.

A Typical Day: Wake-Up Calls and Academic Rigor

Waking up earlier than you ever thought possible is just the beginning of your day. Every morning, the door to your dorm blasts open, and the lights are switched on with a resounding thud. After a quick shower, silence reigns supreme as you rush to your assigned study area, where complete silence is strictly enforced. This is a period of intense supervision, ensuring that no noises disturb the sanctity of your study time.

Breakfast is a brief respite from the strict schedule. However, the day resumes with school, which runs from 10 AM to 5 PM, with a 15-minute break at 10 AM and another at 1 PM. During these breaks, you might find yourself munching on bizarre meals, such as a form of pasta that borders on the weird, often served by a rotating staff of priests and faculty members.

After School and Weekends: Balancing Academics and Entertainment

While the academic rigor is intense, there's always a chance for a little fun. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays offer some respite, as they are typically spent at the local underground music club. This became a favorite pastime, leading to a few nights where my grades suffered, but at least I got to experience a vibrant nightlife. On weekends, you could go home if your parents lived nearby, but for those with parents in Geneva, Athens, Ankara, or Paris, it was a harsh reality. There was also a girls-only school next door, separated by a barbed wire fence, which didn't stop us from finding creative ways to stay connected.

Escaping the grounds became a sport, with many students, including me, becoming quite adept at it. Whether it was exploring the nearby town or attending a club in my hometown, the boundaries of the school were merely guidelines, not strict rules. Some students, especially seniors, faced challenges with bullies, but an environment that encouraged self-defense over aggression ensured a relatively safe and respectful school culture.

Mental and Intellectual Growth

While the academic pressure was immense, it also fostered a strong sense of discipline and intellectual growth. School wasn't just about learning facts; it was about understanding the reasons behind the rules and the context of the curriculum. Intellectual punishments were common, such as writing extra poetry or solving complex math problems. Academic freedom was highly valued, with Wednesday and even Saturday being potential rewards for good work. Sunday was off-limits, not because of religious reasons, but because it was a sacred and restful day.

Social and Cultural Experiences

The experience wasn't just about academics; it was about personal growth and building a strong community. The school welcomed a diverse student body, including students from different religious backgrounds. Mass and prayers were compulsory for Christians, but Muslims and Jews were invited to observe behind a green door. This openness led to a community that was more united and understanding, with many students converting to Catholicism as a result of their experiences.

The school had a few pigs that were fed with our scraps, and once a year, we would celebrate St Martin's Day with a feast where we could enjoy a pig from head to toe. This was a welcome change from the unusual spaghetti that seemed to be a staple of the menu. For the first time, I tried tripe, a culinary experience that remains etched in my memory.

Accountability and Discipline

Discipline was key in this community. There were strict rules and accountability measures in place. If your grades suffered, you might find yourself with extra closed study or forfeiting your entire Saturday. However, the school maintained a balance by not resorting to physical punishment. Intellectual discipline was the norm, and the focus was always on fostering a respectful and caring environment, especially for younger students who arrived from age 7.

Safe and Respectful Environment

Despite strict rules, the school ensured a safe and respectful environment. Only two reported cases of abuse occurred in almost 100 years of operation, and the culprits were swiftly identified. The school recognized the importance of a healthy and trusting relationship between teachers and students, with a clear understanding that those who abused their power would face consequences.

While the life of a boarding school student in Switzerland can be challenging, the experience is undeniably enriching. It offers a unique blend of academic rigor, personal growth, and cultural immersion that prepares you for life in an increasingly globalized world.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my years at the boarding school in Lausanne, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences and lessons that shaped me. Whether it was the strict routines, the lively nightlife, or the diverse cultural interactions, the boarding school years were a defining period that taught me resilience, discipline, and the value of community.