How it Works

Banking

While abroad, you will be able to use your US debit/credit card. 

• Before you leave, let your bank know that you are going to be overseas so that they expect international charges and do not freeze your account in fear of fraud.
• Talk to your bank about a travel debit card. The reason this is advised is so that in the event your card is stolen, a thief only has access to a limited amount of your money. I have both of my debit cards with me in Switzerland so that I have access to all of my money. However when I travel, I only carry the travel card. Money can be transferred, as needed, online.
• Withdraw cash at an ATM in large amounts. The ATM's generally have the best exchange rates but there is a fee for using a ATM that does not belong to your bank so limit the number of withdrawals by taking out 100-200 CHF/Euros at a time. You can always leave it hidden in your room and carry less. If you are in another country and return to Switzerland with extra Euros or other currency, hang on to it and use it on a later trip.
• Spend cash. There are potentially international fees when you use a card and it is easier when you are looking to split a bill with friends.

Phones

iPhone:

Most students have and use an iPhone while abroad. I arrived without a phone and made the decision after being here for a month to do the same.You do not need a Swiss plan but they are available. There are apps that will allow you to call and text for a low cost with a wifi connection. Click here for recommended Apps

Prepaid:

Upon arrival, you can purchase a prepaid phone however international calling is still rather expensive.

There are ups and downs to both choices. The iPhone offers an inexpensive plan if you already have one, otherwise there is an initial investment, but I have found it to be worth it. This was my dad's decision and he has been very happy with it from a parent perspective. The downside is the dependence on wifi, but it is usually available at the hotel/hostel or a near by coffee shop.  A prepaid phone is not restricted by where you are but can be costly and there aren't many students who have them.

Keep in mind that these are just recommendations based on experience and you should decide what is best for you. However I do recommend that you make this decision before you leave as shipping phones can be difficult and expensive.

Meals
Breakfast is provided everyday in the main kitchen/student center on level -2.
Lunch is also provided Monday-Thursday (school days) in the main kitchen/student center.
Dinner is provided Monday-Wednesday and is served at a local restaurant.
                M: Bella Vita
                T: Le Dynasty
                W: Holy Cow
All other meals are your responsibility with a monthly allowance provided on your SVC card (commercial prepaid debit card) which is distributed upon arrival. Like with your personal banking, I recommend withdrawing cash and you will need to set up an online account and pin before using your card.

Shipping
Shipping is expensive!
Parents! Be aware of import taxes. Depending on the value you give your package, your student may receive a bill for the associated taxes. When my iPhone arrived, I had to pay 45 CHF in taxes. This certainly dampers the excitement of a package. To avoid this, limit the marked value.
Students, before having something shipped from home check local stores. You may be able purchase a new one in Switzerland for less than the shipping costs.

Our mailing address is...

(Student's Name)

Pepperdine University

La Croiseé

Av. Marc Dufour 15

 1007 Lausanne, Switzerland