If you had told me a few years ago that I would move across the ocean and call a small campus in Québec my second home, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Yet here I am, in my third year at Bishop’s, and I can honestly say it’s been one of the most intense, surprising, and meaningful experiences of my life.
I arrived in 2023 looking for something new and different from what I had always known in France, and Bishop’s delivered in ways I never expected. Very quickly, I realized that this place really is one big community. Between the small classes, campus life, and how easy it is to get involved, you don’t stay a stranger for very long.
Moving far from home came with both ups and downs. Being away from my family, my routines, and everything familiar was sometimes challenging, especially at the beginning. However, with time and by opening myself up to others, I built a different kind of family here at Bishop’s. The friendships and connections I made go far beyond university life and are relationships I know will stay with me long after graduation.
Over the past three years, I’ve had the opportunity to get involved in many ways. I volunteered at Open House three times, and every single time was a blast. I also became an International Student Ambassador, which allowed me to meet and welcome new international students from all over the globe. In addition, I’m one of the coordinators and choreographers of the Bishop’s Dance Club. With the wide variety of clubs and activities on campus, you are guaranteed to find something that fits you. Or maybe you’ll try something new and discover a passion you didn’t even know you had.
Another huge part of what made my experience at Bishop’s so positive is the support available on campus. As an international student, navigating administrative processes can sometimes feel overwhelming, but resources like B.U. International made a real difference for me. Whether it was help with paperwork, guidance through different steps of university life, or opportunities to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, I always felt supported. Knowing there was a place and a team I could turn to made settling in and feeling at home much easier.
Academically, I feel incredibly grateful for my time at Bishop’s. I’ve had the chance to learn from professors who are genuinely passionate about teaching and who encourage us to push ourselves, grow, and believe in our abilities.
As I head into my last year at Bishop’s, I’m excited for what’s still to come. Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you around on campus!
Maude Charnet, Morsang sur Orge, France, Bachelor of Education – Teaching English as a Second Language, Third Year
International Student Ambassador Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 – Club Coordinator for the Bishop’s Dance Club and Choreographer
