Vanessa from Switzerland

I’ve always had a connection with English and over the years it has developed into a passion for me. I grew up in Switzerland with German as my mother tongue and I can also speak French. I began learning English when I was pretty young in primary school. My early memories of this involved our teacher playing us children’s songs in English and I found the rhythm of the songs helped me to remember the language.

Looking back, I also remember the first time I had the chance to speak to a native English speaker. I was about 9 years old and a teacher brought her friend into the classroom. Even though I knew lots of grammar and vocabulary, when you’re in that situation it can make you feel very nervous. I felt like I forgot all the words in my head! I also found this later when I travelled to the US and London with my parents. I found I was naturally shy and insecure about my English skills and I needed time to improve. However, a few years ago after lots of practice I became confident in speaking English.

I’m looking forward to my sixth semester at university because I can pick a specific subject and I think I’m going to choose entrepreneurism.

Like many, I discovered social media. This was great because when I saw something on LinkedIn or Instagram it was almost always in English. So I started commenting on posts in English, which really boosted my confidence. Along with my parents I would say I get my inspiration from social media personalities, as seeing how committed they are to their causes has had a really big impact on my journey. On LinkedIn and Instagram, I regularly read about young entrepreneurs who have created successful start-ups. The job these influencers do really inspires me, and I want to contribute like them one day.

On my journey I always wanted to do some Cambridge English exams and I have achieved B1 Business Preliminary, B2 First, and C1 Advanced. I needed this as I wanted to start my bachelor’s studies. Taking Cambridge English Qualifications was always a positive experience, as we prepared well in school and did a lot of useful exercises with our teachers.

I’m currently living near Zurich doing my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I also have a part-time work placement in an accounting role for a global company that produces medical and industrial electronics. In this role I need to use English every day when I’m talking to clients. It makes me realise just how important English is to communicate with people from all around the world.

In the future I want to learn other new languages. My father is from Bosnia, so I’d like to learn more of his language as it is a big part of me. I’m also getting ready for my next Cambridge English exam, which is C2 Proficiency; we’re starting to prepare with vocabulary and speaking.

My next big goal is to complete my degree. I’m looking forward to my sixth semester at university because I can pick a specific subject and I think I’m going to choose entrepreneurism.