I first heard about the RSI program when one of my teachers sent me a link to the FBK Bern Foundation website, thinking it might interest me. The FBK Bern Foundation supports intellectually gifted students in Switzerland through specialized programs, mentorship, and educational guidance. Each year, they nominate a single Swiss high school junior to apply for RSI, making the selection process highly competitive.

To be considered, I had to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, and complete a detailed application covering not only my interest and experience in STEM but also my extracurricular activities, hobbies, and broader personal interests. Based on our written applications, three of us were invited to an individual 30-minute interview. After that round, I was selected as the Swiss candidate for RSI 2025.

Following the FBK decision, I was asked to complete a second application for the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), the U.S.-based organization that runs RSI and selects international participants. Since FBK had already informed CEE of my nomination, this step was largely administrative — most of the questions were similar to those in the initial application.

I have to admit, I was genuinely surprised to be selected — not just for the interview, but as the final candidate. I was certain that other applicants likely fit the profile better than I did. That’s why I’m especially grateful to FBK for their support and for placing their trust in me. I’m fully aware of the opportunity this represents, and I intend to make the most of it.

In my next post, I’ll write more about what makes RSI such a unique program — and why I’m so excited to take part in it.