SAY CHEESE

Sigourney Clark

Day eight of the Alpine Study Abroad program started off at 9 a.m. with a 45-minute ride to Engelberg, Switzerland.

While on the bus, I could not help but be mesmerized by the blue water, lush green grass covering the foothills and the Alpine mountains peeking through the clouds. The view was definitely one of a kind and something I would have only ever seen in a picture or movie.

When we arrived in Engelberg, our first stop was the Schaukäserei Kloster Cheese Factory where we were able to see how cheese is made and even try a few kinds of cheese for which the facility is famous. We enjoyed the selection of cheeses they provided and the company of others in the group, then we were given a few hours of free time to roam the city.  

A group of 19 of us decided to take a funicular, or train, to the top of Mount Gerschnialp, which was located below the famous Mount Titlis.

In less than five minutes, the train whisked us to the top, where we were able to suit up with helmets and drive scooters down the mountain. The smaller group I was with decided to take it rather slowly down the mountain, stopping at some of the scenic spots to pose for a picture and talk about how beautiful the views were.

Sigourney Clark suits up with her helmet to drive down the mountain on a scooter. (Contributed photos)

This entire trip, most of us have not had cell service and have only been able to use Wi-Fi to keep in touch with loved ones at home. Even though we would take the time for a quick picture, everyone for the most part never used their cellphones – we were actually talking to each other and bonding over this great experience.

I came on this trip looking to learn about other countries and see how they do business and of course be a tourist, but I have realized these are not the only takeaways of this trip. Meeting new friends and creating relationships with new people are just as important to me now.

Clark and her friends in the program

After these two weeks of studying abroad, I am certain I will come away with a greater respect for the European way of business and new friends that will, hopefully, extend beyond this experience.

As a master’s student with a corporate job, I never thought I would gain so much from two weeks in Europe, and so I am forever grateful for this opportunity. I encourage all students to travel abroad at least once in their college career.

-by Sigourney Clark, MBA student from Raleigh
June 9, 2018

Zach Alcorn

Today we went to the Schaukaeserei Kloster in Engelberg, Switzerland.

We had a view of the city of Engelberg on the way to the cheese factory and it was beautiful.

Zach Alcorn and PeeDee try some cheese. (Contributed photos)

Once we got to the cheese factory, the owner showed us all the steps to make their cheeses. He also shared his story about how he learned the business and what he had done. I was impressed because he was a great example of someone with determination, experience, and entrepreneurial spirit, which lead him to his accomplishments.

This visit contributed to my overall education because it allowed me to meet an entrepreneur and learn from his experiences. Now, I can incorporate his teachings into my future endeavors as a businessman.

I had fun today because we were learning but also were doing things we would not do in the U.S.

After our visit to the cheese factory, some of us took a train up the mountain and then rode scooters down the mountain. The scooter was the best thing that I have done on this trip because of the speed and focus it took to maneuver around the quick turns. Although we have had many experiences that I have learned a lot from, this was the activity that topped them all for me.

Alcorn and PeeDee explore.

The most unique thing I learned from today’s visit and from the program in general is how to take advantage of opportunities and make the best out of them.

Overall, this trip has been truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I could not be happier with the unique things I have learned and experienced.

-by Zach Alcorn, junior from Cary majoring in business management
June 9, 2018