In a remarkable display of resourcefulness and extreme frugality, a Chinese PhD student in Switzerland has become an internet sensation. Known online as “The Artful Cheapskate,” the student has garnered over 12,000 followers by openly sharing his unconventional strategies for saving money while navigating the high costs of living in Switzerland, one of the world’s most expensive countries.
After completing medical school in China and saving a substantial amount, the student moved to Switzerland to pursue a self-funded PhD at a prestigious medical research institution. He explains that typical PhD students in Switzerland require between 1,000 and 1,500 Swiss Francs monthly, and many self-funded students face financial difficulties, sometimes leading to them dropping out. Determined to avoid this fate, he committed to the tightest possible budget.
Surviving on Cat Food and Blood Donations
One of his most talked-about cost-saving measures is his consumption of cat food for protein. He shared his calculations: a 3kg bag of cat food costs about 3.75 Swiss Francs (approximately $5 USD) and provides a significant protein boost. He humorously notes that while his peers struggle with hair loss, the ingredients in cat food that promote shiny fur have surprisingly benefited his own hair.
Beyond his dietary choices, the student also strategically donates blood to receive free meals. He describes the process in Switzerland as generous, offering ample drinks, chocolates, and substantial meals like sandwiches and soup, which he strategically schedules around lunchtime to maximize his intake.
A Bright Future Despite the Struggle
Despite these extreme measures, the student’s dedication has yielded positive results. He recently secured a scholarship and is set to begin a visiting program at Harvard University. He remains committed to his practice of “healthy thriftiness,” indicating that these money-saving habits will continue even as he embarks on his new academic journey in Boston.