Catherine Niu
Richmond Green Secondary School-Class of 2017

University of Toronto- Class of 2021

Email: catherine.niu99@gmail.com

What is like to study abroad?

After I decided to study abroad, I asked myself this question many times. I imaged a lifestyle without 10 hours study every day but with easy courses and flexible schedule. I have to say that part of my imagination did come true. However, I also found many out of my expectation. I found the courses are easier but require the ability to study both independently and in groups. All students have great creativity and hands-on ability. The projects that I have done in 2 years of study are more than what I have done in China in 9 years. I have learned how important is communication and cooperation are in Canada.

Why study abroad?

People who decide to go abroad to study have different reasons. The reason why that I went abroad is that I want a new start. This new start is not as easy as I think or others tell me. This new start involves in language barriers, cultural change, and educational system adjustments. Due to my experience, I believe Canadian educational system is a mix of academics and extracurricular activities. This requires much more than academic studying in China. The experience to me is first excited, then nervous, and then keep challenging myself. I realize that the importance of communication and to speak up for myself. I have to talk to others about my culture and experience to avoid misunderstandings. I believe that my experience is not unique, and my feeling is common. I am proud of my culture and I believe I can share and integrate Canadian culture and Chinese culture, and become a better person. That's why I am here and I wanna share and help.

How to adjust the change?

The decision to come to Canada is sudden for me. It is my first year of high school when I just start to get to know people in our school and make friends with classmates. It is hard for me and I am not sure what I should do or can do to adapt this change. I am not a social person, so it is not easy for me to make mew friends. The way I adjust to this environment is to participate in as many as activities I can in order to meet more new people. They are not going to become my friends immediately, but I know more people and they are slowly becoming my friend.