For many LAS alumni, their time on the Magic Mountain was truly formative. Being part of such a diverse community and living in the stunning Alpine environment leaves many wanting more. That’s why we’re always thrilled to welcome alumni back to Leysin—whether it’s for a campus tour, a nostalgic flip through the yearbooks, or to relive their skiing days on the mountain.

For some alumni, though, a short visit isn’t quite enough. Each year, we’re proud to welcome former students back as part of our summer school staff. In this role, they help shape the student experience and share their own insights with a new generation of learners. Working alongside students gives alumni the chance to reconnect with LAS life and make a meaningful impact, just as their teachers once did for them.

We spoke to three alumni about their experiences working at the LAS Summer School:

 

Phoenyx Peltier '22
 

 

Q: What was your favorite thing about LAS when you were here?
A: Meeting new people and really getting immersed in both the culture of Switzerland and the LAS community.

Q: What do you love about coming back to Switzerland?
A: Switzerland is my second home since I've been coming here since I was little, I love walking around and running into people who have known me for ages!

Q: What’s the best thing about the LAS Global Family?
A: The connections that you make that really last a lifetime.

Q: Do you keep in touch with many of your friends from LAS?
A: Yes, and even some of my friends now in college in New York are from LAS.

Q: What’s it like seeing LAS through the eyes of a staff member now?
A: It's really different because you see how much effort is put into making sure students have the best experience, and it makes me appreciate it more. Honestly, I love being on the other side of it.

What’s a memory from LAS that still makes you smile?
A: Ski season was always my favorite part of LAS!

Q: What’s one thing you were excited to do again in Leysin this summer?
A: I'm really excited to go parapenting, it's my favorite thing to do in Leysin, and I've done it around 4 times.

Q: How would you describe the LAS community to someone who’s never experienced it?
A: A mix of everyone from around the world and a true family.

Q: Fondue or raclette?
A: Fondue

 

Cody Turner '22

 

 

 

Q: What was your favorite thing about LAS when you were here?
A: When I was a student here, my favorite thing was the scenery, especially when the clouds are in the valley. Also, getting to know people from various backgrounds!

Q: What do you love about coming back to Switzerland?
A: Leysin feels untouched, there is so much nature around, and the ease of access to any form of nature is incredible.

Q: What’s the best thing about the LAS Global Family?
A: Hearing alumni from decades before you and hearing their experiences and comparing their time to yours is something I love about attending alumni events. It's nice to see what's evolved over time. Every single person is super kind and successful and are always excited to talk about their time at LAS

Q: Do you keep in touch with many of your friends from LAS?
A: I still keep in touch with my closest friends.

Q: What’s it like seeing LAS through the eyes of a staff member now?
A: Thrilling, I actually prefer it, and knowing the ins and outs of the school and how it works is a great advantage! Seeing the kids enjoy it as I enjoyed it is very nostalgic.

Q: How would you describe the LAS community to someone who’s never experienced it?
A: The community is very open and welcoming

Q: Fondue or raclette?
A: Fondue

 

Kira Johnson '89

Q: What was your favorite thing about LAS when you were here?
A: Skiing with my friends!

Q: What do you love about coming back to Switzerland?
A: I love how everybody's so friendly, I love not driving, and of course, the food!

Q: What’s the best thing about the LAS Global Family?
A: I think that you can find people almost anywhere you go.

Q: Do you keep in touch with many of your friends from LAS?
A: Many; all of my roommates and some of my teachers!

Q: What’s it like seeing LAS through the eyes of a staff member now?
A: It's crazy seeing how much work goes into taking care of all of these kids and seeing how lucky people are to have a connection with Leysin!

What’s a memory from LAS that still makes you smile?
A: You wouldn't be able to publish it!

Q: What’s one thing you were excited to do again in Leysin this summer?
A: Canyoning!

Q: How would you describe the LAS community to someone who’s never experienced it?
A: It's just like a family of so many different people.

Q: Fondue or raclette?
A: I love them both so much, alternate them!