Can you tell us about yourself and why you chose Franklin?
My name is Alexandria Fraser, and I am studying International Marketing Management and Finance at Franklin University Switzerland. I am passionate about being a businesswoman, a creator, and an event manager. Franklin was appealing to me for many reasons while I was searching for universities. First, the location—Franklin is located in the heart of Europe, and I wanted the ability to travel while still getting a great education. Students here are from all over the world, making Franklin a melting pot of different cultures and languages. I knew that if I wanted to work in an international field, Franklin would be a great place to start. In addition, the tight-knit community at Franklin feels like a second family. Since it is a smaller school, it is easier to find friends and meet new people from all over the world.
What has been your favorite experience at Franklin so far?
My favorite experience at Franklin was Academic Travel in Spring 2024. For two weeks, I was able to travel to Spain with my classmates and some of my best friends. We learned about nationalism within the Spanish Basque Country. This hands-on experience included meeting other students who live and study in Bilbao, trying different Basque foods, and visiting sites of significant historical importance during the time abroad.
How have your classes and professors at Franklin helped you grow academically and personally?
Since class sizes are smaller at Franklin, I’m able to build connections with professors. This enables me to do better in classes, as professors take the time to actually get to know me as a person and make an effort to help me with my specific academic goals. Professors are very adamant about us growing not only as students but also as individuals in the professional field. I am able to work on skills both inside and outside the classroom, which prepare me for opportunities after I graduate.
Are you part of any clubs or activities on campus? How have they made your time at Franklin better?
I am very involved on Franklin's campus. I participate in many clubs and activities, which I absolutely love because it helps me make new friends and fully immerse myself in university life. Some of my best friends have been made through clubs. In the clubs and activities I’m involved in, I find like-minded students and bond over commonalities. Additionally, I appreciate that we are encouraged to join clubs or even start our own, which provides more experiences and opportunities for us to grow as students.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement you’ve had at Franklin?
My favorite achievement so far at Franklin was being part of the team that welcomed Cesc Fàbregas for the Next-In-Management series. Working alongside my classmates to create and execute this event is something I’m very proud of. Not only did this improve my communication, teamwork, and organizational skills, but it also made me realize that if I work hard at Franklin, I can see my efforts successfully unfold.
How do you feel about the community and culture at Franklin? How has it affected your university life?
The community and culture at Franklin are very dynamic and diverse. There are many different people from all over the world, making it a true melting pot. Everyone is friends with each other, and we all come together as a strong community during events. Everyone encourages each other to be themselves, and although we come from such different backgrounds, we all mix very well together. We often have events like International Night, where everyone brings a dish from their homeland to share a piece of their culture, and we all gather as a community of students.
What are your future goals, and how is Franklin helping you reach them?
Franklin has tremendously helped me get closer to my goals. My goal is to be a successful businesswoman and work on projects in the international business world. Since I’m involved in many clubs and activities, I am able to network and learn more outside the classroom. Additionally, I’m able to work closely with professors and ask them for opportunities that align with my goals.
Do you have any advice for students thinking about coming to Franklin?
Even if Franklin is far away from your home or family, do not hesitate to give it a fair review while looking for universities. I absolutely love it here and would never change my educational choice for the world. Coming to Franklin was one of the best decisions of my life. I have made friends that I will have forever, and had experiences I will never forget, all while getting a great education.