Unpacking the Bags is a new column giving advice and tips to international students at Camosun.
What leads someone to leave everything behind and move to a new country? What makes the courage to pack those bags become greater than the fear of the unknown? There may be many ways to answer this question, but all circle around the same goal: to realize a dream.
International students have many different reasons to come to Canada. Some want to start their own company; others come to accompany their family; still others are in search of a new diploma. Each one has a different dream and expectation.
When their bags are finally unpacked in their new country, new challenges appear: a different language, a new culture, strange foods, new friends. Things get scary and all that initial courage turns out to be just like the bottom of the luggage: empty. At some point on the plane we turn dreams into expectations and an urgency to reach all our goals.
But nothing happens as fast as we want it to. The first step is to be patient with yourself and to embrace Canadian culture. It’s just like learning a new language: in the first classes we could only say “sorry I’m late,” but a few years later we could already feel proud of ourselves for having a conversation with native English speakers.
Another basic and valuable tip is to ask questions. Do not expect to know everything right away. If there’s anything I learned in this period in Victoria, it’s that there are many kind people who can save you from trouble. Talk to your teachers, your boss, and your classmates, and enjoy every opportunity to comprehend the new culture surrounding you.
Finally, give yourself a break from the insane routine that you probably had before arriving in Canada. Take a deep breath and take a look around: you made it. It’s time to make some new friends and get out of your shell. When you have someone to go out with, live in the city with, and discuss your routine with, a lot of answers and opportunities will naturally appear. In addition, you’ll enjoy your time and create great memories.
The suitcase even has space for different dreams, for new friendships, for careers that had not even crossed your mind. Now is the time to enjoy the destination and get ready for all the trips that will come.