Lisa Hilite
Swiss Quality Testing Services (SQTS)
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences
Namibia University of Science and Technology
September 01 – November 30, 2025
At Work
My internship at Swiss Quality Testing Services (SQTS) in Dietikon has been one of the most enriching and transformative experiences of my academic journey. I worked in the chemistry laboratory under the guidance of my mentor, Marc, whose openness and supportive nature made it easy for me to ask questions and seek clarity whenever needed. I also had a deputy mentor, Isabel, who became the “work mother” I didn’t know I needed – always checking in on my well-being, ensuring I understood every process, reminding me to take my lunch breaks, and emphasizing the importance of prioritising my health.
The work environment at SQTS was warm, lively, and incredibly welcoming. My colleagues were kind, helpful, and encouraging; laughter – often sparked by Doreen – filled the lab, and there was always cake or snacks waiting in the tea room. I felt trusted and respected, treated as a full team member rather than just a student, and was given the responsibility to work independently, including running a small experiment for my boss on improving test methods.
I began in the homogenisation section, where I learned how crucial this step is in ensuring uniformity and reliable test results. I later moved to the analytical lab, where I performed a wide range of chemistry tests on both human and pet food samples. These included fat and sugar analysis, water content, dry mass, cations and anions, sulphite, organic acids, and protein determination. I worked with methods such as HPLC, spectrophotometry, titration, and the DUMAS method. I even analysed non-food items such as leather, textiles, cartons, and paints for toxic elements like mercury and chromium VI. Beyond performing these tests, I was trained to interpret and evaluate the results. This internship allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge directly and deeply strengthened my passion for laboratory science.
My Swiss Host Family – the Brüning Family
I had the absolute privilege of living with the Brüning family, who welcomed me with open arms from the moment I arrived. They immediately made me feel like part of the family, including me in every activity, celebration, and adventure. Their home truly became my home away from home.
Together, we explored many beautiful places and immersed ourselves in Swiss culture – from food and traditions to history and nature. They introduced me to countless Swiss dishes, and Raclette quickly became my favourite. My host mom, Elke, took me on unforgettable trips, including to Zermatt, where I visited the Gorner Gorge, crossed the hanging bridge, and saw snow for the very first time at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – an experience I will treasure forever.
My host sister, Sina, was incredibly sweet and patient; she introduced me to her friends, taught me how to swim, and made my stay even more special. I am also deeply grateful for Aunt Karin’s kindness and remarkable cooking, Ganschi’s grandmotherly warmth despite the language barrier, and Renee’s guitar performance. Aunt Gabi’s strength and family spirit, as well as the love from our pets Pepe and Vivi, made every day full of joy and warmth. I could not have asked for a better family.
Highlights and Challenges
This internship gave me the opportunity to work at one of Switzerland’s top quality testing organisations while living with an amazing host family and meeting wonderful people from many different cultures. I travelled extensively, exploring Swiss cities and landscapes such as Zurich, Zermatt, Zug, Schaffhausen, Rapperswil, Rheinfall, Bern, Basel, Grindelwald, Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, and more. I also visited Paris and Milan, admiring world-famous architecture and learning about diverse cultures. Each journey became a cherished memory.
Challenges were few, thanks to the efficient transport system, the kindness of people around me, and the comfort of my host family. The initial language barrier was the only difficulty, as many people spoke German and limited English. However, through patience, translation apps, and learning key German phrases (especially “please” and “thank you”), communication quickly became easier. This motivated me to start learning German – something I plan to continue.
My Future Plans
I plan to complete my bachelor’s degree and pursue further studies – ideally in Switzerland. Professionally, I aim to contribute to the scientific and food safety development of Namibia, using the knowledge and experience I gained at SQTS. This internship reinforced my passion for research and laboratory science, inspired me to consider fields such as food and quality testing, and broadened my aspirations beyond what I ever imagined. It also encouraged me to explore and appreciate the beauty, history, and culture of my own country. Additionally, I am committed to learning a new language – German – as part of my future growth.
Personal Message
I extend my deepest gratitude to God, my family, the Namibia University of Science and Technology, B360 education partnerships, and every stakeholder who made this life-changing opportunity possible. Your belief in me opened a door that transformed my life.
To my host family: thank you for your love, kindness, and for making me truly feel like I belonged. You will forever have a special place in my heart, and I look forward to the day you visit Namibia – my home will always be open to you.
To my mentors Marc and Isabel, thank you for your patience, guidance, and encouragement. To my ladies in the LCH department – Rosario, Ana, Bea – Thomas, Doreen, Katrin, Ashley, Garti and to all the SQTS team members who supported me, thank you for the laughter, the lessons, the cakes (Nick, Loris, and Illaria), the translations, the warmth, and for helping me grow both personally and professionally. I will miss you all deeply.
To future interns: Go for it. Embrace every opportunity, say yes to new experiences, stay curious, and let this journey shape not only your career but also your heart.
