Things To Do As An International Student When You Arrive In Canada
Studying in Canada is an excellent opportunity for international students especially if they have the means and sponsorship to do so. Canada offers the best form of quality education in all programs and choices of study which will guide the students and also expose them to an entirely different avenue for learning.
Also, if academic strikes and other limitations are what hinder the progress of schooling in your country, you have no choice but to enroll in a private university or school abroad. Canada however, had been home to several international students who understand the value of academics and seek to pursue them and utilize them to become successful in the future.
Although there are stated duration for every course meant to be studied in Canada’s respective colleges, the academic calendar moves at a fast pace without any delay in its progress thereby making completely baked students for its labor force. Almost everything in Canada is guaranteed if you have a degree or you learned a skill.
On the downside, it’s not all roses down here because some important things need to be done by every international storeroom to get familiar with the environment, and have some sense of belonging. This article will provide an extensive guide on what you must do as an international student when you arrive in Canada.
Get A Phone Number
This is the first thing you should and it should be considered as your top priority. You need to secure a Canadian number so that people in the country would be able to reach you. Canadians value effective communication so you need to stay connected with any friends you make there because it’s your new environment. With the phone number, you’ll be able to reach out to your classmates as an international student and also link up with several people like your professors and even potential employers.
Remember that you are new to the Society so having a local number will get you integrated with different what it provides and also give you accessibility to important services like healthcare, emergency assistance, banking, and transportation.
Obtaining a phone number is very easy and you have few options to do so. Several telecom providers are available in Canada like Bell, Roger, Telus, and others. It’s your choice to choose the one that suits your preference and also compare their plans or subscriptions to determine the affordable one.
Subsequently, you’ll be able to call and send text messages to anyone. The requirements of getting a phone number involve your passport, student visa, and also proof of address to indicate your location or accommodation.
Open A Bank Account
When expecting income or grants as an international student, there should be a designated bank account where that fund can be deposited, and opening a bank account serves as another important step to undertake after arriving in Canada. The benefits attached to it are easy to access to your funds, the ability to pay bills, and also to secure a place for managing your finance. Follow these guides to enable you to open a bank account in Canada as an international student;
- Research Banks: banks are surplus so it’s up to you to find the one that appears to be closer. You should look into them, access their offerings and find your preferred one. Luckily, some banks offer special accounts for students with reduced fees.
- Gather Required Documents: Typically, you’ll need your passport, study permit, proof of address, and your Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you have one. Without these required documents, you will find it very difficult when securing a bank account.
- Visit a Bank Branch: After knowing the bank you have in mind, to begin with, all you need to do is to schedule an appointment or visit its local branch Inform them that you’re an international student and want to open a bank account, and they will take it from there. After passing all the required stages you will have your very own bank account in no time.
Get A Bus Pass To Save On Transportation
Transportation cost in Canada is very expensive and if you are a new international student, don’t make the mistake of boarding an Uber because you will be drained financially. Remember that you would want to economize your lifestyle since it is your first time in the Great White North. Obtaining a bus pass enhances your mobility and also reduces transportation costs. There are several ways you can get a bus pass in Canada especially if you’re an intentional student.
You should run a background check on the transit system in your city and also understand the available options and routes. Also, many cities in Canada offers discounted bus pass to international students so you use to capitalize on this benefit to obtain yours. You should ensure that you have a student ID to become eligible.
Once you have your student ID, visit the transit agency’s website or a local outlet to purchase your bus pass. By doing this you can visit the transit portal to purchase your bus pass and subscribe to lots of plans which include monthly, semester-based, or even annual. It is better to choose the one that will perfectly sort out your transportation needs. Familiarize yourself with bus routes connecting your home, campus, and other destinations you frequent, using transit apps or websites to plan routes efficiently. Locate any transit office nearby to have your pass. So you can freely board transport to any route in the city.
Shop Affordably On Platforms
Your first time in Canada as an international student would seem magical but at the same time very costly because you will face the echos of exorbitant prices of products. Going to the mall to get a piece of equipment or gadget should be a good idea, at least for now. There are alternative options where which are on the internet and online Marketplaces where you can communicate with sellers who displays products on their pages for cheap. Here’s how to go about it;
- Explore Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace offer a wide range of products, from clothing to furniture, at lower prices compared to traditional retail stores. You should try this out. There’s an assurance that you’ll get the value of your money.
- Search and Filter: If you are intending to purchase particular products then you should use specific keywords and filters to find items that match your needs. You can also change searches by location to make pick-up or delivery convenient.
- Communication: Getting in touch with the sellers is very important to negotiate prices and inquire about other products you might be interested in. Since many sellers are competitive, there might be room for negotiation.
Choose a job strategically
International students need to be very strategic when seeking a job, which is considered useful when balancing it with studies effectively. Below is a guide to choosing a strategic job;
- Consider Flexibility: Look out for jobs that offer flexible hours, allowing you to accommodate your class schedule and study commitments.
- Relevant Experience: Your field of study matters a lot and this will enable you to look for positions related to it.
- On-Campus Opportunities: Take advantage of University on-campus jobs. Most of the jobs are tailored to students only and are designed to fit your academic schedule.
Stay away from risky situations
Staying away from risky situations is paramount for international students in Canada to ensure their safety and well-being. If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation. Your instincts are a valuable guide. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Avoid walking alone at night, and consider using well-lit paths or transportation options. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so responsibly. Always keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended.
Wait in well-lit and populated areas for buses or trains, and be cautious with your belongings. When meeting people online, exercise caution. Choose public spaces for meetings and inform someone you trust about your plans.
Keep a list of emergency contacts handy and know how to reach local authorities. Stay connected with friends, fellow students, and roommates. Isolation can make you vulnerable. Taking the steps helps ensure a positive and secure experience while adapting to a new environment.
Update your resume for job hunting
A well-crafted resume increases your chances of securing interviews and landing job opportunities. Here’s how to ensure your resume shines:
Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the specific job requirements. Use a clean and organized format with clear headings and bullet points. Make it easy for employers to scan and find key information.
Include your name, phone number, email address, and location. Make sure your contact details are up-to-date. Write a concise summary or objective statement that highlights your skills and career goals.
List your educational institutions, degree(s), major(s), graduation date(s), and any relevant honors or awards. Include work, internship, volunteer, or research experiences. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements.
Mention relevant technical and soft skills that are valuable for the job. If applicable, showcase projects or coursework that demonstrate your skills and abilities.
Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements. This adds impact to your accomplishments. Include a link to your LinkedIn profile or personal website, if relevant.
Balance work and studies
First and foremost, master the art of time management. Create a comprehensive schedule that takes into account your class timings, study sessions, work shifts, and personal activities. Craft a routine that maintains a healthy balance between these commitments.
Open communication is key. Initiate a dialogue with your employer about your academic obligations. When they understand your class schedule and constraints, they’re more likely to accommodate your needs, leading to smoother coordination.
Utilize your breaks intelligently. Instead of merely idling, use these intervals to review your class notes or delve into your study materials. Harnessing these smaller windows can add up to substantial productivity.
A dedicated study space can work wonders. Designate an area that’s conducive to learning. A clutter-free, quiet space can significantly enhance your focus and concentration, thus optimizing your study sessions.
Don’t let procrastination take root. Staying disciplined and adhering to your schedule can stave off unnecessary stress and provide ample time to manage both your work and academic responsibilities.
Remember to nurture yourself. Amid the busy schedule, allocate time for relaxation, physical activity, and social interactions. Prioritizing your well-being keeps your energy levels up and supports your ability to navigate the demanding routine.
Flexibility is your ally. Be prepared to tweak your schedule when academic demands surge or work hours shift. Being adaptable ensures you can cater to both realms without unnecessary strain.
You should also tap into available support systems. Professors, supervisors, and mentors can offer guidance and insights to help you navigate these challenges more effectively.
Put in the effort to secure a high-paying job
Devote yourself to securing a high-paying job by honing your skills, networking, and crafting a compelling resume. Research industries and positions that align with your goals. Pursue internships and experiences that enhance your qualifications. Leverage your university’s career resources and attend job fairs to connect with potential employers. Putting in the effort now can lead to rewarding career opportunities in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
is life in Canada easy for international students?
Life for international students in Canada varies. While many find support through diverse communities, quality education, and work opportunities, challenges like adapting to a new culture and high living costs can make it demanding.
what are you bringing with you to Canada?
When visiting Canada, ensure you carry authoritative records detailing the vaccinations for you and your family. If any member lacks vaccination, promptly contact your doctor or nearby public health clinic. In Canada, vaccination records are essential for enrolling your children in school.
how much baggage is allowed on a Canada student visa?
For students heading to any of the twelve designated provinces, they have the option to bring along an additional 23 kg of baggage. This results in a combined luggage allowance of 69 kg, distributable across three bags. Each individual bag, however, should not surpass 23 kg in weight.
Conclusion
Canada is nice to be especially if for those wanting to start a new life with families as well as international students. All this will be realized after paying close attention to this guide. Additionally, your studies should be a barrier to getting a job. What matter is that you should know how to strike a balance between both. Interaction should be done to get yourself familiar with an entirely new society.