Which Summer Programme module did you do at the Geneva Graduate Institute?
My name is Yafei Li, and I joined the Summer Programme in 2023. I attended several modules in International Affairs, including Security and Insecurity Today, The United Nations in a Changing World, and Digital Technologies, Democracy and International Relations.
Where were you coming from and what was it like to study your Summer Programme topic in Geneva?
I’m from China. The experience in Geneva was incredibly enriching and — honestly — overwhelming at times, but in a good way. It was something completely new for me. Before that, I had mostly been studying on my own, so being in such an international and academic environment was eye-opening. It wasn’t just sightseeing or "academic tourism" — I really learned a lot. The professors were not only knowledgeable and well-prepared, but also very approachable and supportive. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the visits to institutions like the United Nations (UN) and World Trade Organization (WTO) were unforgettable. I was genuinely excited every day, both by what I was learning and by the whole atmosphere of the city and the Institute.
What about your time at the Summer Programme made you want to apply to study full time at the Institute?
The biggest reason was the professors. Even though they’re leading experts in their fields, they teach in a very clear, well-structured, and thought-provoking way. More importantly, I felt that they genuinely cared — not just about teaching, but about the world. Their passion and commitment to global issues really inspired me. Before the programme, institutions like the UN, WTO — even the Graduate Institute itself — felt distant and a bit out of reach to me. But during the Summer Programme, I got a glimpse of how international organisations actually work, and it made me realise that I, too, could be part of that world. It wasn’t just about learning theories — it was about understanding how the things we study can have a real impact. That experience gave me the confidence and motivation to apply for full-time study at the Institute.
What will you be studying at the Institute and what do you most look forward to?
I’m going to study International Studies, with a focus on the Sustainable Trade and Finance track. To be honest, I’m thrilled to learn — studying is a sheer joy for me. I’ve always been curious and eager to understand how the world works, and I can’t wait to explore these topics in depth. I truly look forward to being part of a community that values curiosity, critical thinking, and international perspectives — an environment filled with brilliant peers and inspiring professors where ideas are exchanged openly and thoughtfully.
