Skiing and Lessons in Leadership

University life is about more than lectures and assignments, it’s about the experiences that shape confidence, friendships, and personal growth. This spirit was perfectly captured during the recent ski and snowboard excursion organised for students in the Swiss Hotel Management School’s Sports and Leisure program.

Bringing together both beginner and advanced skiers and snowboarders, the excursion offered students the chance to challenge themselves, try something new, and connect outside the classroom environment. For many beginners, it was their very first time on the slopes. Initial nerves quickly turned into excitement as students supported one another through every small victory: from standing up on a snowboard to completing their first runs down the mountain.

One of the highlights of the day was seeing advanced students naturally step into mentorship roles. They shared tips, encouraged their peers, and celebrated progress together, creating an atmosphere built on teamwork and positivity. These moments reflected the core values of hospitality education: collaboration, leadership, and creating meaningful experiences for others.

Research consistently shows that participation in physical and social activities during university improves student wellbeing, strengthens social connections, and reduces stress. Experiences like this excursion provide an important balance to academic life, helping students build resilience while fostering a strong sense of community.

Beyond skill development, the day created something even more valuable, shared memories. Conversations on chairlifts, laughter after inevitable falls, and warm breaks between runs allowed students to connect in ways that classrooms alone cannot offer.

The mountain reminded us of something simple but important: university is not only about preparing for a career; it is about becoming part of a community. Sports and leisure experiences create space for growth, laughter, and human connection: the ingredients that transform education into experience.

Because years from now, students may forget the assignments they submitted, but they will remember the day they faced a mountain together….and realised they were capable of more than they thought.

Check out the full gallery here: https://www.leysin-sports-leisure.com/ski-day-14-03

References

American College Health Association. (2023). National College Health Assessment III: Undergraduate Student Reference Group Executive Summary. American College Health Association.

Biddle, S. J. H., Ciaccioni, S., Thomas, G., & Vergeer, I. (2019). Physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents: An updated review of reviews and an analysis of causality. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 42, 146–155.

Dunne, E., & Owen, D. (2013). The Student Engagement Handbook: Practice in Higher Education. Emerald Publishing.

Eime, R. M., Young, J. A., Harvey, J. T., Charity, M. J., & Payne, W. R. (2013). A systematic review of the psychological and social benefits of participation in sport. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 10(1), 98.

Tinto, V. (2017). Through the eyes of students. Journal of College Student Retention: Research, Theory & Practice, 19(3), 254–269.