It seems like many students have the dream of backpacking through Europe, the liberating decision of leaving on a jet plane not knowing when they’ll be back. Students Alex King, senior, and Tim King, sophomore, don’t have to dream of visiting Europe because they used to live in both England and Switzerland.

Alex spent the first six years of his life in England and then a year in Switzerland before moving to the states. Alex has enjoyed living abroad but he has preferred living in other places more than others.

“I know a lot of people like Switzerland and it’s supposed to be a great place but it’s just not a very friendly and welcoming place,” Alex said.

While Alex said living abroad and having a family abroad has given him different values, he appreciates the U.S. and plans to live in the states since all of his friends and immediate family lives in the states.

Tim King was four when he moved to the states and doesn’t really remember living abroad except for a few memories but he definitely sees his culture and heritage in the way he was raised.

“There are a few things my family does different,” said Tim. “When we go out on trips and stuff, we do a lot more family pre-planning. And just for this area (St. Louis) we go out to eat a lot less.”

Tim said he would enjoy going back to England and Switzerland to visit and to possibly live for a while.

Both brothers have enjoyed living abroad and said it gave them a unique experience growing up and a different perspective on culture.