Over the past few years, many Canadian post-secondary institutions have increased their international student enrolment to offset declining provincial funding. However, this surge has not been without issues. Aside from institutions that have been criticized for exploiting international students, who often come to Canada with dreams of a better future but face unexpected challenges, another issue has come to the limelight.
Recent federal policy changes could lead to the deportation of over 70,000 international student graduates by the end of the year. These graduates, who had hoped to secure permanent residency, now find themselves in a state of uncertainty, burdened by significant debt and shattered aspirations. The narrative around international students in Canada is further complicated by prevalent stereotypes, which can unfairly depict them as contributors to housing shortages and job competition rather than recognizing their vital role in the country’s educational and economic landscape. We delve into the personal stories of three international students who share their experiences and challenges in this increasingly complex environment.
Yuvraj Singh Hara
In Canada Since: 2022
Relocated From: Sahnewal, District Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Current Education: Associate of Arts
Career Aspiration: PGA Professional Golfer/Coach, Musician
Why did you decide to move to Canada, and how is reality compared to expectations?
The main reason I decided to move to Canada was to become independent. In India, most people prefer living in a joint family, which often makes us dependent on our parents. We don't fully realize how our parents make our wishes come true. As soon as I came here, I understood the true value of relationships and money. Most importantly, I learned how money is earned. Moreover, it feels great to become independent at such a young age, which is a fantastic kickstart for any youngster like me.
What are some of your biggest challenges as an international student? How have you overcome them?
My biggest challenge as an international student has been balancing work and study. It was especially tough in the beginning, staying away from family and managing time between work and academics. It was hectic initially, but I eventually got used to it. It’s part of life where you learn how to overcome obstacles. Another significant challenge was doing house chores, something I never really did back home. Time management has been a major challenge.
Have you encountered any stereotypes or misconceptions about international students? How have these affected you, and what do you wish people understood better?
Yes, there are many stereotypes about international students, like the belief that we come here only to engage in criminal activities or fights. People often judge the entire community based on the actions of a few after seeing videos or posts on social media, but every coin has two sides. I haven't personally faced such stereotypes, but I know people who have shown hatred toward international students. People should respect that students are surviving away from home, working hard to achieve success without relying on anyone. They should motivate rather than demotivate us by demeaning our presence in a different country. Judgments should not be based on mere assumptions.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of during your time as an international student?
I’m proud of the person I’ve become since coming to Canada. I’ve learned to care for myself and manage my expenses while focusing on my studies. I'm also proud that I found a job in my field here. As a golf player, securing a job at a golf club makes me happy as I stay connected with the sport I love and have invested my entire childhood in.
What advice would you give other international students just starting their journey?
The most important advice I’d give to other international students is to always stay positive and follow the path toward your goals without hesitation. Be patient throughout your journey, and never give up on your dreams. If you work hard and have faith in yourself, nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams. Don’t let the opinions of others mislead or misguide you in any way. Make mistakes, but learn from them.
Angad Brar
In Canada Since: 2019
Relocated From: Village Deon Khera, District Sri Muktsar Sahib, Punjab, India
Current Education: Bachelor of Business Administration
Career Aspiration: CPA
Why did you decide to move to Canada, and how is reality compared to expectations?
I moved to Canada for better education and growth opportunities. In reality, there are indeed better opportunities in terms of education and employment. However, I faced challenges during my initial semester at university because the education system here differs greatly from that of India. In India, education is more theory-based, while here, it’s more practical, which I think is good. Regarding the job market, there are opportunities, but many people from other countries find it difficult to secure good jobs initially because the job dynamics here are different. Apart from education and the job market, the quality of life and living standards here have met my expectations.
What are some of your biggest challenges as an international student? How have you overcome them?
I didn’t face many challenges myself, as my cousin helped me settle, but I’d like to highlight some challenges that international students face now. Truthfully speaking, the situation now is different compared to when I arrived. Finding a job and dealing with a high cost of living are major issues. Many new students who just moved here are struggling to find jobs. Some students come from weak financial backgrounds, so they need to send money back home to their parents. However, without a job, some students are barely surviving.
Have you encountered any stereotypes or misconceptions about international students? How have these affected you, and what do you wish people understood better?
The most common misconception is that all international students don’t know how to behave or live in society and are just here to buy expensive cars and show off. Judging every international student based on this is not fair. I know many students, and I meet new students every day at the university who are focused on their studies, work hard day and night, and have many sleepless nights only to fulfill their dreams and make their parents proud. I also want to clarify that not everyone comes here just for work. I’m in my third year and hope to graduate with my bachelor's degree by the end of next year. After that, I want to pursue my CPA.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of during your time as an international student?
When COVID-19 hit in 2020, the government allowed international students to work full-time. I remember working two jobs at the time while also being a full-time student. Despite the challenges, I completed my 2-year diploma in 1.5 years with a good GPA. Managing work and study at that time was not easy; there were days when I even got frustrated and thought I would have a better life back home in India. Another accomplishment I’m proud of is becoming the president of the Student Union at Capilano University. Winning the election in a diverse environment by a large margin and representing my community is something I’m very proud of.
What advice would you give other international students just starting their journey?
Keep your studies a top priority. Stay mentally strong. Challenges will come, and they’re a part of life, but facing them will make you stronger. Support each other and stay united like a family. If you’re going through a problem, share it with other students as they might be facing the same thing. Work hard, but avoid bad influences, such as drugs, just to earn more money. Don’t start taking drugs or drinking just to look cool; nobody really cares what you do. Work on yourself, stay focused on your goals, and develop yourself as a person. Also, manage your finances properly, especially in the first few years.
Paramvir Singh
In Canada Since: 2023
Relocated From: Phagwara, Punjab, India
Current Education: Diploma in Business Administration
Career Aspiration: Government Official at the Office of the Prime Minister
Why did you decide to move to Canada, and how is reality compared to expectations?
I moved to Canada to access top-notch education and immerse myself in a diverse cultural landscape. I anticipated a few bumps along the way, but the reality has been even more enriching than I imagined. The sense of community, especially at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, has been incredible. I've found that Canada offers not just academic growth but also personal and professional development opportunities beyond my expectations.
What are some of your biggest challenges as an international student? How have you overcome them?
Adjusting to a new academic environment and overcoming cultural differences were initially challenging. The transition involved dealing with homesickness and understanding the nuances of Canadian culture. What really helped was getting involved with campus life and connecting with fellow students. My role as VP of External Affairs at the Kwantlen Student Association gave me a platform to not only overcome these challenges but also to help others navigate them. Engaging with the community has been key to overcoming these hurdles.
Have you encountered any stereotypes or misconceptions about international students? How have these affected you, and what do you wish people understood better?
Yes, I’ve encountered the stereotype that international students are primarily focused on academics and less engaged in broader student life. This can be frustrating because it overlooks our contributions beyond the classroom. Through my work with the student association, I’ve seen firsthand how international students are eager to get involved, share their perspectives, and make meaningful connections. I wish more people understood that our experiences and insights enrich the campus community.
What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of during your time as an international student?
Serving as VP of External Affairs at the Kwantlen Student Association has been the highlight of my time here. I’m proud of our initiatives that have positively impacted both domestic and international students. From advocating for student needs to fostering a more inclusive environment, it’s rewarding to see our efforts making a difference. Helping bridge the gap between different student communities is something I’m particularly proud of.
What advice would you give other international students just starting their journey?
My advice would be to dive in headfirst. Don’t hold back from exploring everything this journey has to offer. Get involved on campus, make connections, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. The community here is incredibly supportive. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and the experiences you gain will be invaluable in shaping both your personal and professional life. Embrace the journey with an open mind and heart.
Overall, it's clear that while Canada has long been a destination for international students seeking quality education and a pathway to a better life, recent developments have cast a shadow on these aspirations. The testimonies of students highlight the need for greater transparency and support from both educational institutions and the government. Without addressing these systemic issues, Canada risks losing the trust of the international community and the potential contributions of these students to the nation's future.
The stereotypes that persist around international students only deepen the divide and misunderstanding, making it even more crucial to approach these discussions with empathy and a commitment to equitable solutions. When drawing conclusions about any situation, it's crucial to consider the entire picture rather than focusing on isolated details. As such, when assessing the experiences of international students, acknowledging their diverse backgrounds, challenges, and accomplishments provides a more comprehensive perspective. By considering the full context, we not only enrich our understanding but also foster more inclusive and well-rounded discussions in the public sphere.
