Meet the Survaliennes – Life Beyond Surval !
We share inspiring stories of our Survaliennes and how they are thriving in their journeys beyond life at Surval:
Back in 1988 I was about to finish high-school in Venezuela. In my parent's opinion, it would belong to a 'proper education' to learn French and have international exposure before embarking on university studies. At first reluctantly, I agreed upon spending only one semester at Surval and returning to Venezuela afterwards. I just couldn't imagine fitting into a group of girls in a 'finishing school' and learn 'chic' French. Well, reality turned out to be far, far beyond my expectations: I stayed for a whole year at Surval and built a future in Switzerland.
At that time, there was 'only' the French immersion Gap Programme available. The excellent French teachers led me from beginner's class to 'advanced' at the end of the year and I was even able to obtain the Diplôme de l'Alliance Française (today's DELF C1). As a 'goody' of this Gap year, the English teacher encouraged and trained me to present the 'Cambridge Proficiency' exam. So this Gap year built a solid foundation for my professional life after Surval. Nowadays, Surval offers besides the Gap year the US High School curricula, giving girls even more power to grow strong minds, confidence and professional skills.
After Surval, instead of returning to Venezuela, I decided to study in Switzerland in one of the world's most renowned universities and obtained an MSc degree at the Swiss Federal School of Technology. Catching up with the Swiss schooling system was only possible with the language skills and international exposure I acquired at Surval, opening many professional doors. Since graduating, I have always had the chance to work in international teams building bridges between people of different cultures and backgrounds.
From a personal perspective, the friendships made during the Gap year back in 1988 are equally precious to the skills acquired. Of course, the internet makes keeping in touch easy. But still, having friends for life and meeting them regularly in Japan, Latin America, USA and Europe is priceless.
In June 2024, I attended the "Survalienne Reunion" event, organised by the Principal Mrs. Dudley (former) and Mrs. Woodhouse (current). It was very touching returning to Surval and feeling the 'spirit' again. The warmth of the staff, the welcoming environment and the stunning views gave me a flashback to my first arrival in 1988.
Giving my daughters the opportunity to experience Surval during Summer Camp was a logical and heartfelt decision. They enjoyed their experience greatly and look forward to returning. And they too wear now the 'Survalienne' title with pride.
Gaby Bosshard Boesch