Tips from Steger Center Alumni
- Prioritize rest and your health.
- Be mindful of transportation strikes, especially in Italy, when traveling.
- Download the SBB Mobile app for train travel and planning.
- Search for flights in incognito mode for lower prices.
- Get to know Riva and the people who live here.
- Be aware of your surroundings when you travel, and travel with a partner or buddy.
- Plan your traveling as early as possible.
- Do things that are out of your comfort zone.
- Make an effort to learn Italian!
- Try learning and practicing basic Italian before getting to Riva.
- Make a budget at the beginning of the semester.
- Don’t waste all of your money at the beginning of the semester.
- Switzerland is expensive. If you want to go out, go to Milan when possible.
- Carry some local currency in cash because not all places accept card.
- Most students recommend budgetting to spend $2,000-$4,000 in spending money. (Do not bring this in cash; see the next tip!)
- Get a debit card that doesn’t have international fees.
- Bring extra medicine and products that you cannot buy here.
- Get a belt bag. It is so helpful to avoid pickpockets.
- Bring sneakers and hiking boots. Europeans walk everywhere!
- Be prepared for both hot and cold weather. It can get really cold, but it also stays warm for longer than you think. Think layers.
- Bring a reusable water bottle.
- You do not need to bring a blanket, bedding, or towels; the Steger Center provides these.
- You do not need hair tools; the center has blow dryers. (Europe outlets will fry your tools.)
- Bring a backpack for weekend trips.
- Bring a pair of slippers to wear around the villa and shower shoes.
- Make friends in the places you travel.
- Get a SIM card with an international package, not just for Switzerland.