Studying abroad at Bishop’s University in Canada wasn’t a decision I made lightly. How do I choose the right school? Am I mature enough to live on my own? Is living abroad a difficult choice? How do I manage without my family and my landmarks?
All these questions were turning in my head. I was 17, and at 17 it’s hard to know what you want to do for the next five years of your life. So, after a discussion with my dad, I decided to find out about schools abroad.
I’m from France, and I wanted to discover another way of life than the one I knew. I met a Quebec woman in charge. She introduced me to an American-style university: a huge sports complex, athletes in sports unknown in France, warm residences, a movie-worthy library, and course buildings that looked like a famous witchcraft school.
Purple, snow, and an alligator in the middle of it all: I was won over, my father too. So, I decided to submit my application. You must be daring in life!
Getting Accepted to Study Abroad at Bishop’s University
In mid-March, I received an email from the university: “Congratulations, here’s your letter of admission to Bishop’s University…” I couldn’t believe it, I was going to study in Canada, opening myself up to a new culture, a new way of life and new ways of teaching.
From Visa to Voyage
Canada is a demanding country; you must show your credentials to get in. I gathered my immigration papers: passport, study permit, criminal record check, biometric data. I felt like an undercover CIA agent. By late August 2023, it was departure day. We were all at the airport.
Ask ChatGPTMy parents, my little brother and me. We were all leaving for the other side of the Atlantic. My parents came with me to help set up my residence room. I’m grateful they were there and proud of this whole adventure.
Friendship Found Me
It was hard for me at first, because I’m a very shy and reserved person. I rarely go out on my own and prefer to keep to myself. But some people decided otherwise and came to see me. I thank them every day: they’re now my best friends, and I can’t imagine my life without them.
Living, Laughing, and Learning
Living on campus is great for creating bonds and strengthening them over long evenings, whether through impromptu card games in the middle of the afternoon or birthday parties in the cafeteria. There’s great diversity within the university, and I’ve discovered lots of new cultures. I have friends from all 4 corners of the world, and it’s fun to discuss each other’s customs and bring your own personal touch to the group. Of course, the French are in the majority, and we’re often all together. At Dewie’s, you can immediately notice our large tables of 18 people around a table for 8, shouting and laughing loudly together.
Dancing to Win at Bishop’s
I also had to integrate into the Bishop’s community. I’ve been dancing for 15 years, and there was no way I was going to stop when I arrived here in Canada, so I auditioned to join the university’s competitive dance team. I secured my place! I’m proud to announce that I’ve been a hip-hop dancer for two years now. There are many clubs on campus to occupy your evenings and weekends: sports clubs like swimming, flag football, and badminton, but also more relaxed clubs like the poetry club, crochet, and theatrical improvisation. We really do have all the tools we need to fit in; it just took a little willpower on our part.
Why I Don’t Regret Studying Abroad at Bishop’s University
I don’t regret my decision to study abroad. I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved and everything I’m capable of doing now. I’ve grown in confidence, maturity and wisdom. I’ve grown and I thank my parents every day for supporting me even when they’re so far away, my friends for making me laugh and the university for giving me the chance to be who I am today.
