What would it be like to study abroad in Vancouver, Canada?
Throughout my university years, I dreamed of studying and living abroad. After graduating in 2022, I finally embarked on my study abroad journey. Vancouver is a multicultural city with many people from different countries. Before I came, I heard many people say that there are many Chinese people in Vancouver, which wouldn’t be very helpful for learning English, and some even advised me not to waste my time and money. But is Vancouver really like that?
My Experience Studying English in Vancouver
From elementary school to university, Asian education tends to be rote learning, with limited opportunities for English communication. Coming to VanWest College for language school in 2022 opened my eyes to a new world. In Taiwan, although we know that every country has a different culture, we rarely interact with so-called “foreigners” in real life. At language school, I made some friends. English is our second language, so conversations weren’t too stressful. We were all traveling abroad alone, helping each other when we encountered difficulties. Fortunately, we shared similar interests and traveled to many places together. In just three months, we built an indescribable friendship.
From English Study to a Business Management Co-op Diploma
After completing my language course, I enrolled in a co-op program, choosing Business Management. My initial motivation for choosing a co-op program was to gain work experience abroad. I started at an icebreaker retailer, a business I felt I could do in Taiwan, but my goal was to improve my English fluency. This job truly helped me improve my English rapidly! Canada is a very inclusive and diverse country; my colleagues included Canadians, Filipinos, and Polish, among others. Because they lived and grew up here, English was their native language. They were willing to teach me new words, explain things I didn’t understand, and even correct my pronunciation. Since our clientele was mostly local, my English improved by leaps and bounds! Often, a job may not be what you initially wanted, but every job has something to learn. As long as there’s progress, nothing is a waste of time or a regret.
Learning Through My International Student Experience in Canada
Later, I went to work in education at VanWest, which was completely outside my life plan. However, I was very happy to have this opportunity to work in a different place. My colleagues and students came from different countries, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of cultural differences. Everyone was like family, embracing and learning from each other. Not only could I learn about other cultures, but I could also introduce Taiwanese culture to others. “Culture” cannot be simply learned from textbooks; it requires real experience and understanding.
Looking Back on Studying and Working in Vancouver
Life offers many choices, and others’ advice isn’t always correct. You can choose what kind of friends you make and what kind of life you live. The scenery in Canada always helps me relax, and the people are friendly and loving. Step out of your comfort zone and give yourself a chance to experience a different life abroad!
Continuing Your Study Journey at VanWest College Vancouver
Studying abroad can include much more than classroom learning. Our college in Vancouver currently offers both English courses and vocational college programs, including co-op study options for students interested in combining academic learning with practical workplace experience. Students considering a college in Vancouver for international students can explore the current English and career training programs available at our college and choose an option that aligns with their study goals.
FAQ
Our Business Management Co-op Diploma is an 18-month program, including eight months of academic study and six months of co-op.
Our Vancouver college is located in downtown Vancouver and close to transportation lines. The location includes 16 classrooms, a computer lab, and a student lounge and patio.
Yes. We currently provide both English-language progrma and vocational college programs, including co-op diploma and certificate options. Students can review the admission requirements for individual vocational programs to understand the English proficiency requirements that apply to their chosen program.
“嗨，我是來自台灣高雄的 Chloe！在2019年，第一次來到加拿大旅遊。目前，我已經去過9個國家。因為太喜歡加拿大，所以在2022年時我決定在加拿大讀書和工作。”
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