The first thing I experienced when I landed at Pearson International Airport on 16 December 2022 was the weather. Hi, I am Samyak Suryavanshi and we will talk about life in Canada as an International Student.
- Arrival and Initial Adjustment of International Student:
- Culture Shock: The climate, food, and social norms in Canada are quite different from India. The culture shock I faced here for the initial months of my arrival was challenging. The winter in Toronto and GTA, for instance, is harsh for me who is used to a warmer climate as I hail from New Delhi, India.
- Orientation Programs: York School of Continuous Studies offers orientation programs for new international students and I was lucky enough to attend it. Though it was my second course in Canada, I was prepared for the coming challenges of the new course. These programs helped me to understand the campus, the city, and the resources available to me as an International student.
- Academic Life of International Student:
- Language: While many Indian students in Canada are proficient in English, academic language and writing requirements can still pose a challenge. I came across different people from different parts of the world speaking different languages. York University offers support services to help improve language skills as well.
- Course Structure: The course structure is also different from what I was accustomed to in India. The emphasis on critical thinking, class participation, and continuous assessment can be new and challenging. The study practices are more focused on practical applications and less on theory compared to Indian education. I strongly believe that we are mentally & technically prepared here to be Industry-ready.
- Social Integration of International Student:
- Diverse Community: York has a diverse International student community. Indian international students in Canada will find peers from various cultural backgrounds, including a significant number of fellow Indians. The adaptation of different ethnicities and multicultural approaches is quite essential for the Indian student in Canada.
- International Student Organizations: There are student organizations and cultural clubs, including those specifically for Indian student in Canada, which host events and festivals, providing a taste of home and helping with social integration.
- Living in Toronto for International Student:
- Housing: Many international students in Canada choose to live off-campus in shared apartments to manage costs. The cost of living in Toronto is relatively high, so budgeting is essential. I found my place in Mississauga, though far off from the campus but saving on rent is important in this crucial period.
- Transportation: Indian Students in Canada can get discounted transit passes, making it easier to travel around the city. There is some relief for Indian student in Canada with recent changes in TTC but if you have to manage multiple commutes then reliability on public transport becomes the lifeline of an International student in Canada. It is quite challenging during winter. I keep myself updated with government apps and websites.
Alt Text: A snowy path leading to a park with snow-covered trees in GTA, ON
- Financial Management for International Student:
- Tuition and Living Expenses: Managing tuition fees along with living expenses is quite challenging. Many students look for part-time jobs on or off campus. The student visa typically allows for limited work hours. I got my first part-time job offer after 3 months.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: York University offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. Researching and applying for these can help ease the financial burdens of a student in Canada.
- Health and Well-being of International Student:
- Health Insurance: All international students in Canada are required to have health insurance. York provides details on the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) which covers most healthcare services.
- Counseling Services: Adjusting to a new country and academic pressure can be stressful. York offers counseling and mental health services to help International students cope with the pressure.
- Career Development of International Student:
- Internships and Co-ops: Many programs at York include opportunities for internships and co-op placements. These provide valuable work experience and can help in building a professional network in Canada. My course does not have a co-op but an internship is a win-win situation.
- Career Services: York’s career services offer workshops, resume building, and job search assistance. Attending these can significantly enhance employment prospects post-graduation for any International student in Canada.
- Community and Support for International Student:
- Indian Community: Toronto has a vibrant Indian community with numerous cultural associations, restaurants, and grocery stores. Celebrations of Indian festivals such as Diwali and Holi provide a sense of community. I have been a member of these groups which have helped alleviate my homesickness.
- Support Networks: I have built a support network of friends, faculty, and mentors who can make the experience more enriching and less daunting.
Alt Text: A street view of Downtown Toronto on a rainy day with wet sidewalks and light traffic.
Advice for Future Indians in Canada:
- Pre-Departure Preparation for International Student:
- Research and understand the academic and cultural environment at the University/College where you have enrolled.
- Make sure your packing is done appropriately for the Canadian climate, especially winter. Keep emergency funds for worst-case scenarios.
- Academic Engagement of International Student:
- Participate actively in classes and make use of academic resources such as tutoring and writing centers.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help from professors and peers. They are the guiding force.
- Financial Planning of International Student:
- Create a budget and keep track of expenses.
- Look for scholarships and part-time job opportunities always.
- Social Involvement of International Student:
- Join clubs and International student organizations to meet new people and build a social network.
- Attend cultural events and engage with the local community.
- Health and Well-being of International Student:
- Take care of your physical and mental health. Use the health services provided by your Educational Institution.
- Stay connected with family and friends back home for emotional support. Keep talking to them regularly.
- Career Readiness for International Student:
- Make use of career services and attend job fairs.
- Network with professionals in your field of study and seek internships or co-op placements.
Alt Text: I pose playfully on the rocky shore with the Toronto skyline, including the CN Tower and Rogers Centre.
By being proactive, open-minded, and resourceful, Indian students in Canada can have a rewarding and successful experience as we are one of the brightest minds in the world.
