Student support

Student support

At Geneva Nations Institute, we prioritize building caring relationships with our students. This allows us to tailor curricula to meet their social, emotional, and educational needs. Our student experience is enriched with volunteer opportunities, study trips, and other exciting extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling journey.

Get involved in environmental work

If you want to participate in our environmental initiatives or need information on recycling, you’ve come to the right place. The Geneva Environmental website, coordinated by the UN Environmental Program, offers comprehensive information on local and global environmental projects. You’ll find resources on sustainable practices, opportunities to volunteer, and guidelines on where and how to recycle effectively in Geneva. Join us in making a difference and contributing to a greener future!
Helpful clicks:
The Geneva environmental website contains information about environmental work, which is coordinated by the UN environmental program.

Human Rights Activities

The United Nations Office in Geneva serves as a pivotal hub for discussing and addressing Human Rights issues. As students at Geneva Nations Institute, you gain access to first-hand information on these critical matters and have the unique opportunity to engage directly with Human Rights Activists. By participating in various events and forums hosted by the UN, you will deepen your understanding of global Human Rights challenges and the efforts being made to combat them.
If you are interested in getting involved, our institute offers avenues for active participation. You can intern or volunteer with organizations working on Human Rights, providing you with invaluable experience and a chance to contribute meaningfully to these efforts. Whether through internships at the UN, involvement in local initiatives, or collaborating with international NGOs, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the field and make a real impact.

Geneva is not only a city of academic excellence but also a place where you can immerse yourself in diverse activities and uphold high ethical standards. Whether exploring the city’s cultural offerings, engaging in outdoor adventures, or participating in social initiatives, Geneva provides a fulfilling and enriching experience for students.

Some information on Geneva and Switzerland to help students settle

Switzerland, the cultural norm leans away from overt displays of wealth, making it difficult to discern the financial status of your neighbors. Despite the country’s prosperity, it is also home to a significant immigrant population.
Geneva, Switzerland, is a city that beautifully blends international influence and Swiss tradition. Nestled by Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains, the city offers stunning natural scenery. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere is enriched by a diverse population, world-class cultural institutions, and prestigious academic establishments. From the historic Old Town with its charming cobblestone streets to the modern international district, Geneva seamlessly combines history, culture, and modernity.

Swiss people appreciate niceties, so it’s important to greet everyone, even during routine activities like grocery shopping. Depending on where you are in Geneva to use salutations such as “Salü, in familiar way,”or “Bonjour “. Being polite in this manner is highly valued.
Punctuality is a significant aspect of Swiss social etiquette. Whether it’s a party or a meeting, being on time is crucial. If you’re running late, it’s polite to call ahead and inform those expecting you.

When meeting someone for the first time, it’s best to stay formal. Offer a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, and use their surname. For closer acquaintances, an air-kiss on the cheek three times, starting with the right, is common. Bringing a small gift when invited to someone’s home, such as flowers or wine, is also a good practice.

It’s advisable to arrange visits ahead of time as unannounced drop-ins are typically reserved for close friends and family. Avoid visiting late or calling late in the evening unless it’s an emergency.

Given Geneva’s diverse culture, (1 in 6 person is expected to be outside Geneva, with a population of 524 379 in the city of Geneva -ville de Genève (according to ge.ch city statistics for 2023 December) communication styles can vary. Generally, Swiss people are polite, reserved, and direct. Formality is expected in work environments until told otherwise. Start with last names and formal titles until the relationship becomes more personal. Often you will see surname is written in capital for clarity. Safe conversation topics include food, sports, economics, and global events, while topics like Swiss neutrality, military, and immigration should be avoided unless you know the person well.

Geneva can feel crowded, but personal space remains important. If you accidentally bump into someone, a polite excuse is appreciated and often reciprocated. In one-on-one conversations, maintain an arm’s length of space. Close friends may touch while speaking, but this is rare in professional settings. Good posture is important, and slouching or stretching in public is considered impolite. Avoid tapping your forehead with your finger as it implies the person is crazy and is highly offensive.
Swiss people generally prefer neat and stylish clothing. Sweatpants and overly casual clothes are uncommon. In business environments, it’s best to dress conservatively and formally. When in doubt, especially for events like theater or opera, opt for more formal attire. For workplace settings, confirm the acceptable dress code, which might be business casual but tends toward the formal side.
Geneva provides a rich cultural and professional environment that values respect, politeness, and a well-maintained appearance.

Engaging with the local customs will help you integrate and appreciate the Swiss way of life.