Take the Leap, you won’t regret it!
If there is one thing you take away from this blog post, let it be this: Take the leap, step outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself because it just might be the best thing that has ever happened to you.
Hi! My name is Iman Codmani and I am currently in my fifth year of a Bachelor of Forensic Science and Bachelor of Law degree. I was incredibly fortunate enough to have been provided with the opportunity to participate in the University of Zürich (UZH) Summer School Course titled ‘International Sports Law: Legal Challenges in the Fight Against Doping in Sport’ between the 3rd of July to the 22nd of July 2023.
On the 26th of June 2023, I boarded my plane at Sydney Airport not knowing that I was about to have the most amazing experience of my life, form many lifelong friendships, and develop numerous interpersonal and academic skills.
The UZH hosted a welcome BBQ on the 2nd of July 2023 for all the summer school participants. This event provided me with the opportunity to meet many people who had flown to Zürich from different parts of the world. A highlight of the night was the post-BBQ walk I embarked on with some friends which resulted in a spontaneous decision to jump into the beautiful Lake Zürich fully clothed!
Classes formally began the next day on the 3rd of July 2023 and I was immediately intrigued by the content of the subject. We primarily focused on the rules that regulate doping in sports. The subject was very well structured and was not too academically intense which left us with plenty of time to socialise; the mix of guest lectures, assessment tasks to prepare for and academic trips to the FIFA Museum, Olympic Museum and the Court of Arbitration for Sport facilitated my learning by keeping me engaged, constantly thinking and frequently communicating and collaborating with my peers.
Studying abroad will also provide you with multiple opportunities to explore new places which will enrich your travel experience and broaden your horizons. UZH hosted a couple of social day trips such as the Uetliberg hike and trip to Bern which were both incredibly joyous experiences. In addition to the UZH-organised social trips, my friends and I embarked on a day trip to Grindelwald on the 15th of July 2023. From paragliding to Trotti-Biking, this day was full of sunshine, bliss and laughter.
Studying at the University of Zurich was such a privilege and I am so grateful that I was fortunate enough to be provided with this opportunity. When you challenge yourself by trying new things and venturing beyond what is known to you, you are able to expand your skills and expose yourself to diverse experiences and perspectives which will inevitably lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself, your capabilities and the world around you. Studying in Zürich offered me with a unique blend of academic, personal and cultural benefits that shaped my identity and perspective and led to significant personal growth and resilience.
To conclude, I truly had such a fantastic time, I met so many amazing, like-minded people who I have formed lifelong connections with. The moments and laughs we all shared will remain with me for a lifetime. If I could put the summer school on repeat and re-live every moment, I would! Take it from me, take the leap, you won’t regret it!
Iman Codmani
Faculty of Law
International Sports Law at the University of Zürich, Switzerland
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship Recipient
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UTS Think Global 