In 2020, when COVID hit, the world changed—and so did my life plans. That’s when I began my journey of moving out of my home and pursuing studies abroad. I had always wanted to pursue a degree in sports since they aren’t offered in Brazil. Sadly, that reality was never an option due to the prices of schools. However, when COVID hit, I only got into an administration program that I had no passion for. That’s when, in a conversation with my best friend, she told me that the prices of schools in Canada were cheaper than in the USA and some places in Europe. That was the beginning of my journey and probably like many of you, I handled the entire process on my own. So here are some tips I wish I had known before I started the whole process, as international students.
Bishop’s Resources for International Students
Bishop’s University offers a page dedicated to both future and current international students. This page provides a variety of resources to support you. Including information on immigration procedures, a FAQ section, and helpful webinars such as how to pay taxes here, how to get a work permit once you graduate and more. You’ll also find a detailed guide to assist with your arrival in Canada. Featuring ideal arrival dates, a packing checklist, directions for traveling from Montreal to campus, and much more.
Their team is available to not only answer your questions but also provide personalized assistance. Throughout the school year, Bishop’s International hosts numerous events for international students. Giving you the perfect opportunity to meet new people and have a great time! These events include trips around Canada, like to Ottawa and Quebec City, and brunches on campus with other international students.
It’s okay to not be sure. (100% is a lot)
Choosing to leave home and enter university and a program of study is a big step, and it can be overwhelming. Many people think you need to be 100% certain before making a decision, but that’s a very high number isn’t it? The truth is, you don’t have to be completely sure. When is anyone 100% sure of anything? Sometimes, it’s only by experiencing something that you realize if it was the right choice.
Getting involved as international students at Bishop’s
Once you arrive and begin your studies, make sure to explore a little bit of everything—both in your field of study and beyond. Bishop’s offers countless events and opportunities, and by trying different things, you’ll quickly discover what you enjoy (and what you don’t).
I still remember my first time in Lennoxville—my parents and I dropped off my bags at my new house and set off to explore the campus. Up until then, I had only seen it through an online tour and they had only seen it in pictures. So seeing it in person for the first time was surreal. To this day, all my mom talks about is how beautiful the campus is, and my dad talks about how amazing our sports complex is!
Opportunities for international students: From Gaiters games to internships
Take full advantage of everything Bishop’s has to offer. Attend Gaiters games, volunteer, join clubs, or find a job on campus. Walk around, enjoy the free swim, hit the gym, and explore every corner of what’s available. In my first year, I went to every Gaiters game, from soccer, which is a huge sport back home, to rugby, a game I knew nothing about. That led me to volunteering at games, which eventually turned into a job. In my second year, I joined the Sports Studies Society, and now, I’m a co-lead of the club.
One of the biggest opportunities I’ve had came through the connections I made on campus. With the support of my bosses from Gaiters Athletics, I landed an internship with the men’s rugby team. I got to work closely with the athletes and gain hands-on experience in sports media. It was an experience that not only helped me grow professionally but also made me realize how much I love working in social media.
There’s so much to experience here—get involved, step out of your comfort zone, and you’ll not only make the most of your time at Bishop’s but you’ll also create unforgettable memories along the way while meeting incredible people!
You will find your place here.
It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’re into—you’ll find your place here. Whether it’s in your classes or during Orientation Week (O-Week), which is a week jam-packed with activities and events that will focus on both the academic and social sides of Bishop’s. What matters is that great people are part of Gaiter Nation, and soon enough, you’ll be one of them too—whether as a new international student just starting your journey or as someone who has fully embraced life at Bishop’s.
So, if you’re not sure if Bishop’s is the right place for you, apply either way and find out for yourself. With some small class sizes, a tight-knit community, and a stunning campus, Bishop’s offers an experience like no other!
You might just discover that it’s the perfect fit!
