What I wish I knew: international students share their top tips

We asked some current Coast Mountain College students to share what they wish they had known before coming to Canada, and their advice for potential international students. Here is what they had to say.

I am Harsimran Singh, and I am from Punjab, India. I am in my final year of the Post-Graduation Diploma in Business Administration at the Smithers campus. I also serve as a Coast Mountain College Digital Ambassador and a student representative on the College Board of Governors.

I wish I had understood how important it is to prepare for the weather before arriving in Canada. Coming from a warmer region, I misjudged the effects of the cold and wet seasons in Northwest BC. I would urge prospective students to invest in appropriate winter clothing and rain gear to keep comfortable throughout the year. My recommendation to new students is to embrace the wide cultural experience that awaits them, take advantage of opportunities to interact with other overseas students as well as Canadian students, and be proactive in seeking assistance from instructors, staff, and other students; you are not alone on this path.

My name is Arlen Perez, and I am from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. I am currently studying in the Post-Degree Diploma Program in Business Administration at the Terrace campus. One thing I wish I had known before coming here is the availability of job opportunities. Despite being a small city, there are ample job prospects in Terrace, and the public transportation system is efficient and reliable. Far from being a drawback, living in a small place has turned out to be an advantage, as everything is conveniently close.

Terrace is a quiet and peaceful place; the winter is harsh but very bearable. People here are very active, and you will see them playing sports even in sub-zero temperatures, so don't be afraid of the cold! In my first year I have found the experience incredibly rewarding: the professors are warm and welcoming, the College provides plenty of support, and I have had the opportunity to interact with people of many nationalities. Coming to Coast Mountain College has been an excellent decision for me and my family.

My official name is Aliyu Suleiman, and I am from Abuja, Nigeria. I am a Post-Degree Business Administration student at the Terrace campus. All the information I needed was online, and the school's website was detailed enough to guide my decisions. My immigration journey has been smooth so far. I would encourage potential students to attend Coast Mountain College: the school is dedicated to making sure every student is comfortable, and Terrace is a growing city where young people can contribute as it welcomes immigrants from outside Canada.

My name is Kimona Wickham, and I am from Kingston, Jamaica. I'm a student in the Associate of Arts, Sustainable Communities Specialization, at the Prince Rupert campus. I wish I were more familiar with the unique but turbulent history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. CMTN did a good job adjusting me to the many sides of Canada, and the experiential part of learning here allows you the space and grace to ask questions and build understanding with your neighbour.

Bring lots of sweaters! (A warm day here is very different for an islander.) Take many photos, because the Northwest Coast is just as beautiful as a tropical island but distinctly different. Be adventurous when meeting people, always try new things, and don't be afraid to ask, "What is that?" Give yourself grace for not knowing what you don't know, but never hesitate to find out.

My name is Harold Glenn Calderon. I am from the small municipality of Zaragoza in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. I'm currently at Prince Rupert taking a Post-Degree Diploma in Business. I wish I had known more about the unique weather that Northwest BC has; for a person who grew up in a tropical country, it was quite difficult to adapt to a city that sometimes has four seasons in one day. I also wish I had known more about the local Indigenous cultures and history of Northwest BC before coming here; understanding the rich cultural heritage of the area has enriched my experience and helped me appreciate the land and its people more deeply.

For Filipinos considering Coast Mountain College: take the time to learn about Northwest BC, including its climate, culture, and outdoor activities. Connect with students or alumni to gain insights into their experiences, and take advantage of the resources available on campus, such as academic support services, career counselling, and extracurricular activities.

My name is Luchille Erika Ramirez from Cebu City, Philippines. I am taking the Post-Degree Diploma Program in Business Administration at the Terrace campus. Before coming to Canada, I wish I had known that there are a lot of opportunities here for growth and development, so I wouldn't have had to overthink how to sustain my needs. You will meet a lot of accommodating and friendly people around the campus and in the community who will help you get through everything.

My advice to those who would like to be a student here is to not be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and explore things you wouldn't have thought you could do, because that's what I did. I arrived here at the age of 23 full of uncertainties. Always pursue your goals and go for things that will help you grow as an individual.

My name is Monica Enah V. Barro from Mandaluyong City, Philippines. I'm studying in the Post-Degree Diploma Business program at the Terrace campus. Before arriving, I wish I had known more about the local weather conditions in Northwest BC; coming from the Philippines, adjusting to the colder weather and snowy winters was a significant adjustment.

My advice: embrace the diversity and unique experiences this college offers, and do not hesitate to reach out to the college services; they are there to help, guide, and support you. Connect with the Filipino-Canadian community and other international students to build a support network, keep an open mind, have patience, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone to fully immerse yourself in the Canadian college experience.

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