Moving to another country can transform all aspects of your life.
When I was preparing to come to Victoria, I was ready to face the language barrier, the change in social relationships, and even a new way of studying. The only aspect I was not prepared for was the changes that would happen to me during my time outside of my home country.
I considered myself immutable. After all, what can cause a change in my personality after adulthood? But I discovered that living in a new environment can bring out values and characteristics in me that even I did not know existed. For example, the new post-secondary dynamics showed me how much I enjoy studying and the academic environment. In addition, I realized a determination and perseverance within me that surprised me and made me a better person.
Being in daily contact with a new culture allows a person to learn a lot about life. When I am asked how my experience in Canada has been so far, I usually respond that it is a constant adventure, as I have contact with new sensations and experiences every day simply because I am adapting to a new environment here.
It is wonderful to be able to experience new feelings when you think you have already established a routine for your life. So, if I could give some advice to students who are getting ready to start their journey in Canada, it would be to not reduce the experience to study or to work, but to use these things to discover what within your characteristics you can add to your character and personality. This can differentiate you as a friend, as a professional, and as a person.
I believe that the emphasis of being an international student is not in the word “student” but in the word “international.” Along with all the challenges this term brings, it also enables you to leave behind an old routine and gives you space to find out what you really want to do with your life and what your priorities are. This opportunity is rare and wonderful.
So, my tip is this: combine your values that you have learned in your original home country with what you’ve learned from your new home country and become a better version of you.