Starting as an International Student at York: My Journey and Advice
Starting as an international student at York School of Continuing Studies was both an exciting and daunting experience. In 2023, I left India for the first time to study Business Administration, embarking on a journey that would challenge and change me in many ways. Seeing people from different cultures and stepping into a new academic life was overwhelming, but it was also an opportunity for growth. Here’s a look into my journey and some advice for new students who are about to start their own.
Moving to a new country is a significant change, and my experience was no different. From the weather to the food, everything was so new and unfamiliar. There were moments when I felt that I was in a dream, at times I questioned whether I had made the right decision and even considered going back because the challenges seemed too great to overcome.
But as I started interacting more with other students and as I started to get involved in campus life, things began to turn. The professors as well as the students at York played a crucial role in easing my transition. They were kind, patient, and always ready to offer help, making the adaptation process smoother. The support from York's resources, especially the food center, was invaluable. They offered a variety of options, including non-veg, veg, and vegan choices, and provided different food bags to accommodate students with families. As a new student without a job, this support was a lifeline during my first year.
One of the biggest challenges I faced during my first year was building confidence, especially when it came to academic presentations and participating in class discussions. Initially, I was nervous about speaking in front of others and worried about making mistakes. My first presentation was particularly nerve-wracking; as I had messed it up, more than I was supposed to.
However, my professors and classmates really helped me get through it. They made it clear that making mistakes was just part of the learning process, and they created a space where I felt supported. My group members were great—they didn’t just point out where I went wrong, they helped me understand and get better, all while sharing a few laughs about it. What I did back then still gets brought up as a joke, even now, but it’s all in good fun. Over time, I got more comfortable speaking in front of the class, working on group projects, and even stepping up to lead. Building that confidence has been one of the biggest takeaways from my time at York.
Making Friends and Enjoying Campus Life
One of my favourite spots on campus was the break room. I remember the first time I went there with a group of classmates—people I hadn’t interacted with before. It was a bit unexpected, but I ended up making a friend that day who’s now a significant part of my life. We played games, shared stories, and just had a great time. It’s funny looking back at that moment, but it turned out to be a key part of my university experience.
The break room became our hangout spot where we’d relax and enjoy each other’s company. We also got involved in various campus events and parties, which were fantastic for bonding and making even more memories. These moments helped me build lasting friendships and made my time at York truly special.
Securing a Job at Costco: A Milestone in My Journey
A significant milestone in my journey was landing a job at Costco, thanks to a friend I made in my class last year. He referred me for the position, which was a huge step forward for me. This job has been a learning experience in many ways. I've gained confidence in communicating with people and learned to handle various tasks efficiently, meeting deadlines and expectations.
Working at Costco has also taught me how to deal with unexpected issues that can arise at any moment. Whether it's a minor hiccup or a more serious problem, I’ve learned not to panic. Instead, I focus on finding the simplest and most effective solution. This approach has helped me at work and translated into my daily life, making me more resilient and adaptable.
Adjusting to the academic system at York was definitely a challenge for me. Back home, I was used to traditional methods of studying and taking notes, but York’s approach was entirely digital. I had to quickly get the hang of using various software and apps for assignments and presentations. This felt overwhelming, especially when I had to give a presentation just a few days into my classes.
Even though I was intimidated at first, I gradually started feeling more at ease with these new tools. Practice made a big difference, and I learned that asking for help was crucial. My professors were incredibly supportive, and I discovered that many of my classmates were navigating the same changes. Knowing I wasn’t alone in this transition really helped me adjust more smoothly.
When I first arrived in Canada, my feelings were a mix of excitement and apprehension. The thrill of exploring a new country was tempered by the challenge of adapting to the colder climate and adjusting to different cultural norms. The level of politeness and respect I encountered in everyday interactions was quite different from what I was used to, but it definitely made settling in a lot easier.
One of the most unforgettable moments was experiencing snow for the first time. Coming from a warmer climate, seeing snow felt like stepping into a movie scene. I remember how thrilled I was and couldn’t wait to share pictures and videos with my family and friends back home.
While I didn’t engage in many cultural activities, I did take note of the different customs and ways of life around me. I learned to appreciate the emphasis on punctuality and respect for personal space, which are key aspects of Canadian culture. These observations have been valuable and have contributed to my personal growth.
While making friends at York was relatively easy, not all friendships stood the test of time. It’s important to remember that as an international student, you’ll meet many people, but not everyone will remain close. I’ve learned not to trust blindly and to be cautious in forming relationships.
However, I’ve also met some true friends who have stood by me through thick and thin. These friendships, both from my first and second years, have been a source of strength and support as I continue my journey. It’s important to cherish these connections and recognize the value of having people who genuinely care about you.
By 2024, my time at York School of Continuing Studies has transformed me. I’ve grown so much from the overwhelmed student I was when I first arrived. Now, I feel stronger and more confident in myself and what I can do.
One of the biggest changes has been in my communication skills. At the start, I struggled with speaking during presentations and felt a lot of anxiety about public speaking. But with practice and the constant support from my professors and classmates, I’ve become much better at it. I still get a bit nervous, but I’ve learned to see presentations as a chance to share my ideas, not just to perform under pressure.
I’ve also become more confident in group assignments. I’ve taken on leadership roles and have been more active in team projects. I’ve realized how important collaboration is and how to handle different personalities and dynamics in a group. Reaching out to professors and connecting with them on LinkedIn has been helpful. Their advice has given me valuable insights for my startup and career, and building these connections has been a big boost for me.
On top of that, my experiences have helped me understand myself better and set clear personal goals. I’ve become better at tackling challenges, both academically and personally. The confidence I’ve gained has positively impacted different areas of my life, helping me approach new opportunities with a more positive attitude.
Overall, my second year has been a time of significant growth. I’ve embraced the learning experiences and tackled challenges head-on. Each experience has helped me develop and move forward with a better understanding of my strengths and a clearer vision for my future.
Advice for Future Students
1. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from professors or classmates. The faculty at York is supportive and eager to help you succeed. Whether you’re struggling with coursework or need advice on navigating university life, don’t be afraid to reach out.
2. Use Campus Resources: Make the most of campus resources such as the Alumni and Career Lounge. This space can help you with career advice, networking opportunities, and job searches. Additionally, utilize the library and counselling services—they’re valuable resources for your academic and personal growth.
3. Explore Toronto: Take some time to explore Toronto. The city is full of cultural events, local attractions, and opportunities to learn and have fun. Engaging with the city will enrich your overall experience at York.
4. Be Open to Opportunities: Embrace new experiences and stay open to different opportunities. York offers numerous avenues for personal and professional growth. Being open to these can lead to valuable connections and enriching experiences.
5. Stay Positive: There will be days when everything seems to fall apart and homesickness hits hard. Remember, you're not alone—many students face these challenges. Maintaining a positive attitude and focusing on small victories can help you get through tough times.
6. Don’t Give Up: You will face obstacles along the way, and some days might feel overwhelming. Keep pushing forward and remind yourself of your goals. Persistence is key, and your hard work will eventually pay off.
7. Utilize Free Resources: York offers free workshops, career counselling, and online courses that can help you develop new skills and enhance your resume. Take advantage of these resources to support your academic and professional growth.
8. Be Cautious of Scams: Be careful about potential scams, especially related to housing and personal information. Never share your Social Insurance Number (SIN) with anyone who isn’t authorized or doesn’t have a legitimate reason for needing it. Be cautious of fraudulent rental listings and always verify the housing offers. Additionally, watch out for bank frauds and unsolicited calls or messages asking for personal or financial information. If you receive anything suspicious, report it to the relevant authorities and your bank as soon as possible.
9. Acknowledge the Challenges: Understand that not everything will be smooth. There will be days when you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or discouraged. It’s okay to experience these feelings—what matters is how you manage them. Seek support when needed, and be prepared to handle stress and stay on track.
Conclusion
My time at York School of Continuing Studies has been a journey of significant growth and transformation. From the initial challenges of adapting to a new academic system and a different cultural environment to the positive experiences of making new friends and improving my skills, every step has contributed to my development as a student and individual.
I’ve learned the importance of resilience, the value of seeking support, and the need to stay cautious about potential risks. Embracing opportunities, being open to new experiences, and maintaining a positive outlook have been key to navigating both the highs and lows of this journey.
For future students, remember that while there will be moments of difficulty and uncertainty, these experiences are part of the learning process. Utilize the resources available, seek help when needed, and be proactive in protecting yourself from potential scams. Your time at York will be filled with growth opportunities, and with the right mindset and preparation, you can make the most of this exciting chapter in your life.
Embrace the challenges and cherish the experiences, knowing that each step forward brings you closer to achieving your goals and building a brighter future.