How Surval Shaped the Woman I Am Today
We are delighted to share the reflections of our former Survalienne, Anastasiia (Ukraine, 2017–2021), Student of the Year, whose journey beautifully captures the confidence, global outlook, and sense of belonging that define life at Surval. Now based in London, she shares that she has completed her BSc in Business Management, Digital Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at Bayes Business School and is currently pursuing an MSc in Marketing Strategy and Innovation.
My time at Surval was one of the most unforgettable chapters of my life!
I still remember my very first day - arriving at the school knowing no one and barely speaking a word of English. It felt like stepping into a completely new world.
Yet, after four and a half years of living and studying at Surval, I left confidently speaking English and even holding conversations in French. Those early English classes are still so vivid in my mind; my teachers were incredibly supportive and empathetic. One teacher in particular became a mentor to me, she made learning joyful and always encouraged me to believe in my abilities, even on days when I doubted myself.
Some memories feel almost dreamlike now - the beautiful breakfasts overlooking Lake Geneva each morning, or our Monday whole-school meetings that filled the building with energy and excitement. I will never forget the moment when I first spoke in front of the entire school after being named ‘Student of the Year 2021.’ I was nervous, but the warm and encouraging atmosphere made me feel safe. It was the moment I realised how much Surval was shaping my confidence.
Surval felt like a big family to me; a place where everything felt warm, familiar, and truly like home. I met so many amazing girls, many of whom are still close friends today. One of my favourite Surval traditions was the etiquette afternoons - elegant lunches where we learned not only dining skills, but also confidence, presence, and the art of conversation. These experiences taught me that education at Surval went far beyond the classroom.
Throughout my journey, I collected countless special moments: travelling to Amsterdam and Vienna with my classmates, our annual ski trips to Anzère and other Swiss destinations, daily trips to explore Switzerland - including a visit to the Cailler chocolate factory! Looking back, these are the moments that shaped the independent, open-minded young woman I am today.
After graduating, I moved to London to continue my studies. This summer, I completed my BSc in Business Management, Digital Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at Bayes Business School, and I am now pursuing a MSc in Marketing Strategy and Innovation. I am excited to build my career in marketing and to see what the future holds after this amazing year.
To all girls considering Surval: if you are looking for a place where you can grow academically, personally, and emotionally, a place where you will be supported, challenged, and cared for - Surval truly is that place. It gave me lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a sense of confidence I will carry forever.
If I could turn back time, I would choose Surval Montreux all over again.
Surval did not just educate me - it gave me a second home.
