On August 19, Franklin University Switzerland opened its doors to a new academic year with the start of Orientation Week, a cherished tradition that marks the beginning of every student’s Franklin journey. From August 19 to 23, we welcomed new students aged 17–35 from 34 different countries, including 12 transfer students completing their Bachelor’s degree at Franklin, 39 first-year students studying abroad, and 20 joining us for a semester only. Many of these students come from our partner universities, in particular 34 from Texas Christian University (TCU), 9 from Southern Methodist University (SMU), and 4 from the University of Southern California (USC), each bringing unique perspectives and energy to our international community.
Orientation Week was filled with events that combined the practical with the memorable. Parents and families attended information sessions to learn more about the Franklin experience, while students connected with the Office of Student Life to discuss important steps in their transition to life in Lugano. Balancing these essential moments were the gatherings that create lasting memories: the President’s Reception, a warm celebration of our newest Franklin students, and the iconic excursion to Valle Verzasca, where the natural beauty of Ticino provided the perfect backdrop for forging friendships.
By August 25, the energy on campus had reached its peak as returning students came back to Franklin. The familiar rhythms of campus life quickly returned: laughter echoing across the courtyards, lunches shared at the Grotto, and classrooms once again alive with discussion, discovery, and ideas. With the start of classes, the community embraced the new academic year with positivity, anticipation, and determination, looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2026, with more than 90 international students who will graduate between December and May.
The beginning of a new academic year is always a reminder of what makes Franklin unique: the combination of academic rigor, cultural exploration, and a supportive community that spans the globe. For families, it is a reassurance that their students are not only receiving an exceptional education but are also welcomed into a home away from home. And for future students looking ahead to their own journeys, Franklin continues to be a place where every year brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and belong.
