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Pre-ArrivalGuide

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

STUDYING IN SWITZERLAND

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Dear student,

Congratulations on your acceptance to Les Roches Global Hospitality Education in Switzerland!

No doubt you have hundreds of questions about what you need to prepare and what life will be like on campus and in Switzerland. This pre-arrival guide is designed to answer those questions and put your mind at rest. For any other questions you might have, please do not hesitate to contact our International Enrollment Department who will be delighted to help out.

We would also strongly recommend that you join our Facebook group for new students (search: Les Roches Switzerland for New Students). This is a great way to connect with some of your future classmates and make friends, before you arrive!

Likewise, if you have not already done so, you should check out our student blog on http://blog.lesroches.edu. It gives an excellent insight into what it is like to be a new student at Les Roches in Switzerland.

Good luck with your preparations and see you soon on campus!

WELCOME TO LES ROCHES!

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CONTENTS

Packing Guidance & Professional Appearance Information

Dresscode & General Appearance

Professional Etiquette

Packing Guidance

Pre Arrival

Practical Information

Laptop Requirements

Campus Life

Campus Facilities

Health & Well Being

Les Roches Bluche Campus Map

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PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE INFORMATION

3 PIECES OF PACKING WISDOM

+ Layers - pack clothes that can be layered up as the temperature - morning and afternoon, outside and inside - is often significantly different. So pack several layers of clothing, but nothing too heavy or bulky.+ Neutral and versatile - by this, we mean bring classic clothing that can be dressed up or down to suit all occasions.+ Less is more! - go with the basics and accessorize.

Starting university is a big step for anyone, especially if it’s a new country or city where you may be unsure of the environment and climate. One of the most popular questions students ask is, what should I bring with me? We have put together some tips for you to consider while packing to make sure you get the most out of what you bring, and we have even drafted a packing list to make sure you have all the essentials needed during your time in Switzerland.

Les Roches has a very strict general appearance and dress code. This reflects the very high standards in the hospitality industry and is an integral part of the education at Les Roches.

Personal hygiene is essential in service professions and it requires continuous attention. Hair must be well groomed. For males, hair no longer than the collar of the suit jacket is accepted. During practical classes, beards are not allowed (except for religious reasons where a beard net must be worn in order to comply with hygiene regulations). In other periods, beards can only be accepted provided that they are regularly maintained in a conservative manner and have been grown outside of the semester.

Unnatural hair colorings are not permitted. Visible tattoos are not acceptable and should be covered with clothing. When this is not possible, the tattoo must be covered by skin-colored tape.

1. Practical Arts Apparel The school will order the service and kitchen uniforms for you upon your arrival.

2. Business Formal Please see the next page to see examples.

3. Business Casual

4. Casual Dresscode

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ACCESSORIES◢ Fine business scarves may be worn around the neck◢ Name tag to be worn at all times◢ One badge/pin on lapel◢ No more than 3 pieces of unobtrusive jewelry (earrings, watch, necklace, bracelet or ring)

FEMALE STUDENTS

MALE STUDENTS

THE SUIT COMPRISES◢ Jacket with dress, skirt or trousers. No more than two colors can be worn (e.g. black trousers/skirt, with black shirt and grey jacket)◢ Black, grey or navy blue — pinstripe or plain◢ Suit trousers must be full length or just above the ankle, classic in style & not skin-tight◢ Skirt or dress length must be one credit card height above or below the knee

THE SUIT COMPRISES◢ 2/3 piece suit – No more than two colors can be worn (e.g. black trousers with black shirt and grey jacket)◢ Black, grey or navy blue — pinstripe or plain

SHIRT◢ Bright colors are permitted only for shirts◢ Must be tucked in◢ All buttons on shirt should be closed

TIE◢ Business tie or bow tie - NO fancy motifs

SHIRT OR BLOUSE ◢ Bright colors are permitted ◢ Fitted but not skin-tight and no longer than jacket◢ Pullover or turtle-neck pullover of plain and discreet color may be worn under jacket◢ No t-shirts◢ Round and V-neck tops are allowed

TIGHTS-SHOES◢ Classic colors: skin color or black fine tights to match the suit◢ Socks may be worn with trousers◢ Polished, closed one-color shoes to match suit; heel between 5mm – 8cm◢ No ballerina pumps, moccasins or boots

SOCKS/SHOES◢ Dark socks to match suit/shoes◢ Black, brown, grey or navy blue shoes to complement the suit◢ Shoes must be polished, classic, elegant and one color

ACCESSORIES◢ Belts must be worn with trousers, with belt loops and should match shoe color◢ Plain V-necked jumpers and woolen waistcoats (matching the suit) may be worn under the jacket◢ NO scarves, jumpers or patterned waistcoats◢ Name tag to be worn at all times◢ White handkerchief may be

worn in top jacket pocket◢ One badge/pin on lapel

◢ No more than 3 pieces of discreet

jewelry – bracelet, watch & ring

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PROFESSIONAL ETIQUETTE

Our campus community consists of over 1,000 students (representing more than 90 nationalities). While the school has a policy of accepting cultural diversity, we also ask you to respect this diversity of cultures so that your views and personal presentation do not offend others.

You may have to adapt yourself to the demands of a service industry where the impact of your views and personal presentation may be viewed as inappropriate if not moderated.

The school seeks to help students to understand these needs. To lead a decent and proper community life, but more importantly to develop qualities that are essential to hospitality and tourism professions, the management puts a very strong emphasis on students’ professional etiquette during their entire length of studies.

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PACKING GUIDANCE

CLOTHING◢ 5 white, long sleeved, button down shirts. You can put your initial or name tag on the collar to avoid any confusion when doing laundry.◢ 2 pairs of black trousers and/or skirts for practical service courses.◢ 5 ties (for men).◢ 2-3 business suits◢ 5 shirts: t-shirts, polos, blouses, etc.◢ 3-5 pants/skirts: trousers, khakis, jeans, skirts, etc.

◢ 5 sweaters/sweatshirts: light and warm sweaters and sweatshirts, v-necks to wear with suit.◢ 1-2 coats: one for rain or wind, one for colder nights.◢ Underwear: 10 pairs approximately.◢ Socks/stockings: 10 approximately (bring at least 5 black pairs for business attire).◢ Ladies: if you like to wear skirts, bring at least 5 pairs of neutral or black colored tights/pantyhose.

◢ Sleep wear.◢ Sports wear.◢ Swimsuit/s.◢ Accessories: hats, scarves, gloves, belts, etc.◢ Formal wear: a dress or two for ladies, or nice trousers and a shirt for gentlemen.◢ Clothing for Cultural Night (traditional attire, or clothing representing your country).

SHOES◢ 1 pair of comfortable black leather shoes for practical courses.◢ 1 set of trainers.◢ 1 pair of nice high heels for ladies.◢ 1 pair of business shoes for men.◢ 1 pair of flip-flops or slippers for walking around your room/ accommodation building.

ESSENTIAL ITEMS◢ Towels: one hand towel, a medium towel, a light bathrobe and a towel for the floor (optional).◢ Personal bathroom supplier: toothbrush, tooshpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, hair brush, gel, etc.◢ Hair dryer and adapter.◢ Prescription medication/allergy medication.◢ Extra contact lenses and saline solution or an extra pair of glasses.◢ Miscellaneous: small nail clippers, ◢ sewing kit, safety pins and ear plugs.◢ First aid: insect repellent, lip balm, sun ◢ block, blister band-aids and band-aids.

OTHER GOODS◢ Passport, 2 copies of passport, credit cards and ATM cards.◢ Swiss currency.◢ Digital goodies: laptop, MP3/iPod ◢ player, camera, etc.◢ Umbrella.◢ Small bag or backpack for weekend trips/carrying books etc.◢ Basic stationary: notebook, pens, pencil, USB drive.

WHAT TO PACK?

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See page 5 for more information relating to the school dress codes.

Don’t forget, these are just guidelines so try not to go overboard or to pack things you might not need. There are stores in Switzerland to buy anything you miss!

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ACCOMMODATION ASSIGNMENT

After the pre-payment is made, all students choosing school accommodation will be secured by default a standard double room. You will receive separate instructions by email from the Lodging Department in order to log on to our online room reservation system and make your choice. Unless you have requested a single room, you will also have a roommate. Roommates are a great way to have cultural exchange and practice different languages and quite often, your roommate becomes your best friend on campus.

ROOM REGULATIONS

You are not allowed to cook in your rooms or to light candles. Tea and coffee making appliances (kettle) are allowed. No pets or animals are allowed on campus, nor do we tolerate weapons of any kind.

Please note that if you fail to follow the accommodation standards you may be asked to leave campus accommodation. Please refer to the standards of excellence in the academic catalogue for future details.

LAUNDRY

A free laundry service is available for kitchen and service uniforms.

For personal clothing, laundry machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards are available in the common areas of student accommodation. To use the machines, you need to purchase a laundry card from the reception.

Bed linens are provided and laundered by the school. You must bring your own towels.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES

In Switzerland the electrical outlets require 220 volts. You might need a transformer and /or adapter to use electrical appliances. You can purchase them in any shop selling electric appliances, including the Kiosk on campus.

When leaving the room, please make sure that all electric installations are switched off, including the lights. Saving energy contributes to saving the environment.

Please note that cooking applicances are not permitted in any accommodation buildings and rooms.

MONEY & VALUABLES

Personal and private insurance, to cover issues such as damage or theft of personal property are not mandatory but are strongly recommended. The school accepts no liability for valuables left by the students in their bedrooms, public areas or in any storage places. We encourage you to put your valuables in the individual safety deposit boxes in your room. You are strongly recommended not to keep large amounts of money in your bedroom.

Students personal items are insured up to a maximum of CHF 20,000.-. If you wish to take out additional insurance you must do so with your own insurance company.

All students are provided with a locker and may purchase a pad lock from the Reception.

STORAGE OF PERSONAL BELONGINGS

You can choose to store your luggage with the external storage company during your internship period for an additional fee. Costs vary depending on the length of time the luggage needs to be stored and the size of each piece of luggage. Full details and prices will be made available to students before they check-out. The storage of the personal belongings must be done by the student.

We ask you not to store valuables or money in any of your boxes for insurance and security reasons. The school declines all responsibility for any student items placed in storage.

PRE ARRIVALPRACTICAL INFORMATION

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PRIVATE MAIL AND PARCELS

POSTAL ADDRESS OF THE CAMPUS

All private parcels and letters for students should be addressed as follows:

SURNAME + First name (no nicknames)

Student number (provided upon arrival)

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education Route des Moulinettes 2

3975 Bluche (VS) Switzerland

Tel (campus Reception): +41(0)27 485 96 00

Fax (campus Reception): +41(0)27 485 96 15

Email: reception@lesroches.edu

MOBILE PHONES

You may have a personal mobile phone as long as it is switched off during classes and meal times in the campus restaurants. During registration, an English speaking representative is available to set up mobile phone accounts or offer roaming features which will enable mobile phones users to operate their existing models in Europe. If you wish to set up an account with a Swiss mobile phone company, you will need a valid residence permit before being able to subscribe to any of these roaming features.

TELEPHONE CALLS

General calls are taken by the Reception department. Telephone number to call:

+41 (0)27 485 96 00 (Reception)

*Please note you are not permitted to take phone calls when you are on duty or in the dining room.

Reception is open between 07:30 to 18:30 Monday – Friday and is available to take messages for the students at the following number: +41 (0)27 485 96 15.

STUDENT IDENTITY CARD

Upon arrival, you will receive a Student Identity Card from the Student Services Office. This card will be useful when going to the bank, dealing with the local authorities, in shops, accessing the school buildings after closing time, accessing on campus restaurants, and printing services on campus. Please carry this card with you at all times.

BANK

It is advised that you should open a private account at the local Bank. An English-speaking representative of the local UBS Bank will be at school during registration to assist students and give further information.

After your account has been set up (this process can take up to 2 weeks), all money (including most foreign currencies) and Travelers Cheques can be deposited safely. The Bank card can be used to withdraw money from the account as well as pay for services, just like a regular debit card, both in Switzerland and abroad.

There is a 24-hour cash machine located on campus for students to withdraw money.

DRIVING

In order to travel on Swiss highways, all cars must have a“vignette”. This tax sticker (CHF 40.-) is available at all border crossings and at any Swiss Post Office.

The speed limit in the central pedestrian zone of Bluche is 30km/h. Everywhere else depends on the road signs. In general it is 50km/h. It is strongly recommended to have 4 winter tires and snow chains between November and April when the roads are slippery and dangerous. The main rule when driving in winter is: SLOW AND CAREFUL.

You should drive carefully at all times, even on stretches of road you know well. All passengers must fasten their seat belts (front and rear seats) at all times, by law. Remember also that drinking and driving may lead to accidents and prosecution by the police. Swiss law is very strict concerning alcohol and speeding.

CAR/PARKING

You can bring your own vehicle to Les Roches, but you must register your car with the Security Department on arrival. There is a fee for a parking space (please refer to our Fees, Terms and Conditions).

Please note that parking spaces are extremely limited and will be issued on a first paid, first served basis. Unfortunately, if all available parking is issued, it will not be possible for you to park your cars on campus.

SECURITY

The school’s Safety Officers patrols the school grounds. They are supported by a private security company. Both are there to ensure your safety.

Tel: +41 (0)27 485 97 22

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Students joining Les Roches Global Hospitality Education will need to have individual access to our intranet website, which hosts student information, including support and teaching documents and other learning resources. You will also require access to the Internet which is vital for access to online library resources, email and project research.

You may bring your own laptop but it MUST meet the Institute’s specifications as outlined below. Alternatively, you may purchase your personal laptop through Les Roches.

BRINGING YOUR OWN LAPTOP

SOFTWARE SPECIFICATIONS

◢ The version of the operating system must be installed - IN ENGLISH.◢ For Windows PC or Mac, Microsoft Office 2013 or later.◢ Professional Anti-Virus software is recommended

MINIMUM TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

◢ Intel Core i5 Processor (or equivalent)◢ 8GB RAM◢ 100GB hard disk space available

I.T. SUPPORT

It should be noted that Les Roches offer limited support for laptops not purchased through the school. The responsibility of hardware maintenance, purchase of all Software, upgrades and support rests with the student. Les Roches can provide you with a list of local suppliers who offer these services.

In each campus building, you will have Wi-Fi access.

You are also encouraged to save your files on cloud solution (Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive,etc), external hard disks or USB keys, it is recommended that all Devices are checked for viruses on a regular basis.

It is recommended you check the latest IT requirements on our website:

www.lesroches.edu > Admissions > Accepted Students > Computer Policy

In order to make the check-in process as efficient as possible we would like to draw your attention to the points below and propose you use this checklist to prepare your computer for the process and assure you don’t have anything missing once you arrive:

◢ Take a copy of your invoice that states the date of purchase and warranty conditions.

◢ Make sure your computer has all the security patches for your operating system by selecting ‘Windows’ > ‘Update’ on your computer.

◢ Check your computer for viruses, for example by using one of these free on-line scanners http://www.kaspersky.com/virusscanner

◢ Make a back-up copy of all your personal files and documents to an external hard disk, or cloud solution.

◢ If necessary, purchase an “international travel plug adapter” for your computer power cord.

BUYING A LAPTOP THROUGH LES ROCHES

You are encouraged to purchase a package through the school. It comprises a latest model laptop, extended warranty and an enhanced support program through the school IT team.

The school laptop computer will have at least the following specifications:

◢ Intel i7 processor (or equiv.)

◢ 8GB RAM

◢ 500GB hard drive SSD

◢ 13.3 inch screen (HD Display)

◢ Apple Care Protection Plan

◢ MS Office Home & Student 2016

For more information, you can contact your future IT support team directly.

swiss.itservicedesk@sommet-education.com

Helpdesk Number +41 (0)27 485 27 27

PRE ARRIVALPERSONAL LAPTOP REQUIREMENTS

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On campus, you will feel as if you are living in a village rather than a traditional university setting. The campus overlooks a beautiful alpine valley and steep mountains. It has a great four-season climate and pristine air. Students or parents concerned with safety can rest assured, knowing that Bluche is a healthy, peaceful residential place. You will find the following facilities available on the Bluche campus:

DINING FACILITIES

◢ The Market Place - the main dining room, serving three meals a day. There are several food stations offering various dishes including a magnificent dessert bar.

◢ Le Tacot à la carte restaurant - a fine dining restaurant that seats 60 people. Students can enjoy a full dinner menu.

◢ B3 Butcher Baker Brewer - open for lunch and dinner, this is an ideal place for students to grab a quick sandwich or snack.

◢ Tacot Cocktail Bar - a modern open space for socializing and enjoying a few cocktails and drinks after hours.

◢ Lobby Bar - Refreshments and snacks available at reasonable prices.

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS

If you cannot eat certain foods for medical or religious reasons, please inform the F&B practical program manager at the school during registration. To this effect, you must bring an official certificate from your doctor or relevant person.

SPORTS & RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

You will have access to several outdoor and indoor sports facilities on campus:

◢ Fitness center - open 7 days a week to all students

◢ Basketball/volleyball courts

◢ Football field

◢ Outdoor swimming pool (summer only)

Access is easy to many ski resorts from Les Roches offering excellent opportunities to practice various winter sports and activities. The school’s sports coordinator will provide you with a Sports and Events Calendar during orientation week which includes different activities such as hiking, swimming, basketball, soccer, pool, table tennis, jogging etc.

SHOPPING & AMENITIES

◢ Mini Market - open 7 days a week, here you can purchase snacks, quick meals, accessories, hygiene products and convenience items.

CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS FACILITIES

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◢ Student counselor - we have a dedicated counselor available on campus to support the emotional and mental well-being of students.

◢ Nurse - The school nursing team on campus can offer guidance and information regarding health care issues and help to organize appointments with the Doctor when necessary.

ILLNESS & ACCIDENTS

You can always ask for advice and assistance via Les Roches SOS, ISOS or the campus nurse and security (available 24/7). If you suffer from a medical condition, any medical documentation must be sent with the medical certificate during the application process. Such information is kept confidential; however it can be made available to the appropriate professionals, should the need arise.

CAMPUS WELL-BEING

In the interest of the health of all students, Les Roches is a non- smoking campus with only certain areas set aside for smokers. We have a strict no-drugs rule, as well as an alcohol in moderation philosophy. These policies are in place to support our students’ well-being and education.

CAMPUS LIFEHEALTH & WELL-BEING

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Your futurestarts here.

LES ROCHES GLOBAL HOSPITALITY EDUCATION

International Enrollment Department

Chemin du Pierrier 1 - 4th Floor

1815 Clarens

Switzerland

P. +41 21 989 26 44

info@lesroches.edu

9 WAYS TO CONNECT BEFORE YOU ARRIVE ON CAMPUS

Search ‘Les Roches Switzerland for new students’

Join our Facebook group for new students

youtube.com/lesrochescastSubscribe to our YouTube channel

blog.lesroches.edu

Read blog articles from our students, faculty & alumni

twitter.com/lesrochesnewsFollow our latest news on Twitter

instagram.com/lesrochesswitzerland#LRBstudents

See what our students get up to

Search ‘Les Roches Global Hospitality Education’ on LinkedIn.com

Look what careers our alumni have

lesroches.edu/talk-to-a-student

Talk to a current student - ask them any questions you have

lesroches.edu/webinars

Join an online seminar to learn about student life & careers

lesroches.edu/les-roches-faq

Find answers to your questions on our student life FAQ page