Switzerland is a federal republic consisting of 26 cantons, or states, with Bern as the seat of the federal authorities. Switzerland is situated in Western Europe, and is a landlocked country geographically divided between the Alps, the Central Plateau and the Jura. The Swiss population of approximately 7.8 million people concentrates mostly on the Plateau, where the largest cities, Zürich and Geneva, are found. The Swiss Confederation has a long history of neutrality, for it has not been in a state of war internationally since 1815.
Capital
Bern
Government
Federal Directorial Republic
Language
German, French
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
"We have host seven students from Switzerland over the years, and we love to stay in contact with them all today. Last year, our family was able to visit many of them in Europe!"
— The Reese family, Michigan
in their own words
student application videos
Tim, from Switzerland, made this video to show his host family more about his life at home.
Remove any stalks from the spring greens or cabbage and finely shred the leaves into 1/4 inch slices. Drop the spring greens or cabbage into boiling water for 2 minutes only, then drain and dry well.
Peel the potatoes, then grate them into a bowl. Season with salt and freshly milled black pepper, then add the grated cheese and greens or cabbage and, using 2 forks, lightly toss together.
Shape the mixture into rounds 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Dust lightly with flour.
Pre-heat the oven to 425F, placing the baking tray on the top shelf of the oven. Melt the butter and add the oil, then brush the rösti on both sides with the mixture. Place the rösti on the baking tray and return it to the top shelf of the oven for 15 minutes, then turn the rösti over and cook them for a further 10 minutes.
Guten Appetit!
Students from Switzerland