The final two weeks of my JFAO Exchange in Switzerland were spent with the wonderful Zimmerman family—Peter, Doris, Bettina, and their dog, Nera. From the moment I arrived, they welcomed me into their home and made me feel like I was truly part of the family.
I helped pick up 75 geese from another farm, planted pumpkins, and harvested wheat. One of the coolest experiences was getting to drive the combine during harvest. My daily jobs included picking potato beetles, watering the pumpkins and flowers, taking the cows out to pasture and bringing them back to the barn, cleaning the barn, and feeding the geese. It was a great way to experience what everyday life is like on a Swiss farm.
Some of my favourite memories weren’t just the work, but the time spent with the family. We enjoyed coffee breaks together each day, shared meals, relaxed with a beer in the evenings, played traditional card games like Chao Sepp, and ended some nights around a bonfire. Those simple moments were what made the experience so special. Rather than feeling like a visitor, I truly felt like another member of the Zimmerman family.
During my stay, the family also introduced me to their local community. We attended a small village festival where we listened to a live band, enjoyed delicious local food, and experienced another side of Swiss culture that tourists rarely get to see.
Outside of the farm, I had the chance to explore some incredible parts of Switzerland. I visited the historic town of Baden, where I wandered through streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings dating back as far as 1488. One particularly meaningful reunion was meeting Angelika, a former Canadian IFYE delegate. Two years ago, I introduced her to line dancing while she was staying in Canada, so it was only fitting that she took me line dancing in Switzerland. It was a full-circle moment that perfectly represents the lifelong friendships created through the IFYE program.
One of my favourite days was hiking to Ebenalp, the famous Aescher mountain restaurant, and Seealpsee. The views were incredible, and swimming in the lake after the hike was the perfect way to cool off.
I also visited Rhine Falls and took a boat tour right up to the waterfall before spending some time exploring Schaffhausen and playing a round of mini golf. On my last day, I took a boat trip through lake Lucerne and went up Mount Rigi.
It’s hard to believe my time in Switzerland has come to an end. I’m so thankful to the Zimmerman family for making my final two weeks so memorable and for giving me a true Swiss farm experience. I’ll be leaving with so many great memories, new friendships, and a much greater appreciation for Switzerland and its farming community.
Emma Cummings
Durham Region JF
