Switzerland

Switzerland will always hold a special place in my heart because it was where I spent three years studying and building the foundation for my culinary background.

I was exposed to a whole new way of life that helped shape me into the chef I am today, where strict standards and values were upheld. Whenever I think back to my time there, I'm immediately transported back to the unforgettable aromas of Swiss raclette, the breathtaking winter landscapes that looked like something out of a fairy tale, and the vibrant green meadows of summer nestled amidst snow-kissed mountains.

The Swiss way of life is refreshingly different, and I truly appreciate it. Their culture is full of aspects that I adore, such as the value they place on punctuality - if you're not five minutes early, you're considered late. This was a stark contrast to how I was brought up in my own country, where being fashionably late was more the norm. It was a culture shock for me, but also an exciting opportunity to learn new perspectives and embrace different ways of doing things.

I can vividly recall my first day of class in Switzerland. After traveling and adjusting to a new time zone, I was completely exhausted and ended up late. When I arrived, the professor asked for an explanation, and I tried to convey how tired I was feeling. To my surprise, he told me to go back to bed and warned me that being late for two more classes would result in having to repeat the course. This experience set the foundation for my culinary journey and taught me the importance of time efficiency and respect for time. Nowadays, I prioritize punctuality and value every minute of my day.