Meet Mathilde Fraisse

What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Mathilde Fraisse. I was born in Switzerland and moved to Lyon at a very young age, where I lived for over ten years. I also spent part of my schooling in Madrid, Spain, which meant growing up across different cultures, languages, and educational systems.

Which languages do you speak?

I speak French, Spanish, and English fluently, and I’m currently learning Portuguese. Being exposed to multiple languages from an early age really shaped my adaptability and my ease in multicultural environments.

What has your academic background been like before Forward College?

I studied in highly selective institutions that value both academic rigour and strong community life. One of the most formative experiences was studying at the Maison d’Éducation de la Légion d’Honneur, which is known for its discipline, excellence, and strong sense of community. Living and studying closely with my peers taught me autonomy, resilience, responsibility, and respect for others.

Do you have interests or passions outside academics?

Yes, music has always been central to my life. I was selected for a summer programme at the Berklee College of Music, where I studied with international students and performed in front of more than 300 people. I’ve also trained in classical singing. Music, for me, is both a discipline and a language that requires emotional intelligence, precision, and constant improvement.

You’re also very involved in sports. Can you tell us more about that?

I started skiing at the age of two and began competing when I was nine. Those experiences taught me discipline, humility, and resilience. I’m now a ski instructor, which requires pedagogy, adaptability, and the ability to make calm decisions in high-responsibility situations.

You’ve been involved in scouting for many years. How has that shaped you?

Scouting has been one of the most formative experiences of my life. I’ve been involved for over ten years and I’m currently a scout leader, mentoring children aged 7 to 12. It taught me how to lead teams, learn from my mistakes, manage uncertainty, and always try to find constructive solutions, even in difficult situations.

Why did you choose Forward College?

I was drawn to Forward College because of its non-traditional academic model, which aligns perfectly with my international background. I really value the combination of academic rigour, leadership development, and the opportunity to live in several European cities. I also appreciate the small class sizes and the close relationship with professors, who truly support both our academic growth and emotional intelligence.