Hello from your International Orientation Chair!

Author: Orientation 2022
Posted on June 30, 2021

Coming to Canada as an international student was both nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time. It was my first time flying internationally but I couldn't wait to see what university life had to offer! I came to Mount Allison in the winter and unfortunately missed the International Orientation in the fall. During the Winter Orientation, I met other first-year international students and it was comforting to see that other students were in the same boat as me, and it helped me form some really strong bonds. 

I always wanted to attend the fall International Orientation and I got this opportunity the following academic year. Although I had been in Canada for a semester, I got to learn and experience so many new things about university. I learned about the resources - academic, employment, extra-curricular and many more facilities that Mount Allison offers, which would have helped me better transition to university life. 

My highlights from IO were the activities and trips! I remember playing bingo, musical chairs and also singing my heart out at karaoke night. We also went on a field trip to a beach where we had a bonfire, music, and some delicious marshmallows. The International Centre hosted a field trip to Moncton where I got to experience city life in New Brunswick. I won't say my friends and I didn't have an entire shopping spree (H&M got some great business that day!). And the most memorable part of IO was the friendships I formed. IO is a meticulously planned set of events where you will meet people from all over the world and from different walks of life. It's a great opportunity to form long-lasting friendships - I'd know because I found some of my best friends at IO! 

I would highly recommend all international students to join International Orientation and University Orientation because this is wehre you will be creating some of your best memories! It will help your transition to university and make it much easier. Attend as many events as you can - whether virtual or in-person - to get the full experience of International Orientation. Be open to new experiences, have fun, be kind, and make the best of this experience. This is your second home, and there are so many people here who will enhance the time you spend here. 

Have a great summer and stay safe! 

Written by Pushkaraj Jadhav, 2021 International Orientation Chair