ºìÐÓÊÓƵ

Tips for Success

One tip that I would offer new international students starting their program at UVic is… familiarizing yourself with the tools and services that UVic offers before you actually need them. These include Academic Advising for undergraduates and graduates, Residence Services, , Student Wellness Centre, Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL), Library Borrowing, BikeHub, etc. Among these, Academic Advising is particularly crucial as you begin your program. Even if a friend knows “so much” about your program and graduation path, ensure you speak with your department’s academic advisors as early as possible. They can support with mapping out your UVic journey.

One of the best ways for international students to get connected during their time at UVic would be… joining UVic  and ! The International Student Welcome and other orientation are excellent events to meet and start to connect with other students. With over 150 clubs, the UVSS provides bridges to connect thousands of like-minded individuals. Also, the ICS Global Community offers valuable programs like social drop-ins, mentorship and conversation partners, all of which significantly help students get connected and share their experiences.

Student Success Tip: Student success is truly subjective, depending on you define it. It can be the final framed UVic degree, the friendship you started in the first term, the development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills, or the cultivation of a lifelong learning habit you developed during your UVic journey. Even mastering just one of these skills signifies success; if you obtained multiple skills, congratulations you’ve hit the jackpot!

For me, student success is about developing resilience throughout the time at school. Countless nights rushing deadlines, hundreds of incomprehensible formulas, and those final hundred words of an essay—they all push us to the edge of collapse. Yet, when we look back, the challenges we overcame only made us stronger.

About

Over a decade ago, I arrived in Canada as an international student. Victoria was my first Canadian home, and it has remained so ever since. Having navigated the journey from an English Language Centre (ELC) student to a UVic graduate, I deeply understand the challenges international students could face. I've experienced the struggles of managing conditional offers, transferring credits, extending visas and permits, and searching for employment. However, I've also learned that with focus and proactive planning, any obstacle can be overcome. Hard work truly pays off!

Looking back from my current perspective, I regret not fully exploring valuable opportunities like Co-op and Exchange programs. Therefore, I strongly encourage students to investigate these programs as early as possible. Co-op work terms provide invaluable work experience before graduation, while Exchange programs broaden horizons and expand worldviews. Relocating to another place is inherently complex, and when you add the academic and social aspects of an Exchange program, it creates a unique opportunity to discover unexpected skills and life lessons.

I feel privileged to be part of the Exchange team, supporting students on their path to success. Remember, we're just an email away – let's connect!

Interests

Playing basketball, singing, skiing, climbing, travelling and fixing stuff.

Fun Fact

Out of personal interest, I obtained my Automotive Service Technician certificate after my bachelor’s degree. No more regular mechanic visits for me!