Find out what makes the country a top education destination.
Sakeen Shaikh
"I graduated with a degree in business from University of New Brunswick (UNB), Saint John, in May 2003, and I'm currently working in Citibank, Dubai.
I believe the experience and knowledge I received at UNB was extremely valuable and has definitely contributed to me being a key performer in my work environment. I found I had a number of transferable skills that I acquired during the UNB business co-op programme. High up on the list of mandatory traits that business organisations look for are teamwork and leadership skills, which I feel were developed and strengthened during my years studying in Canada."
Sannam Ahmad
"I spent four years pursuing my BA Honours double major degree in Communication Studies and Professional Writing at York University
in Toronto.
I enjoyed being part of the on-campus community and the whole feeling of oneness that comes with it. The social scene was fantastic and I enjoyed small things such as running into people I knew on campus walk; looking forward to a big slab of a decadent cake from the Bakery Café or the Swiss cheeseburger at my residence's pub, The Spot, and knowing that neither would put a dent in my pocket because they'd be debited on my pre-paid meal card.
I also enjoyed certain simple things about life on the campus such as waking up on a crisp winter's day and walking to class and feeling alive looking at the bright but soothing white blanket of snow covering everything."
Renita Quadros
"I'm doing my Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a major in Human Resources Management (HRM) and a minor in Marketing from the University of New Brunswick, Saint John, and I'm expecting to graduate in May 2008. I decided to go to Canada to study since most employers in Dubai seem to prefer graduates from the West, so I assumed it would work to my advantage when I got back to Dubai to look for a job. Also, the best university in Dubai is the American University of Dubai (AUD), which costs just as much as a university in Canada.
Campus life in Canada is different from Dubai. In universities in Dubai, you are familiar with most students and making new friends isn't such a hard task. In Canada, local students in university know each other from high school. So making new friends and gaining their trust is difficult for an international student. Activities are similar in Dubai and Canadian campuses, but universities in Canada definitely have more parties, which gives us an opportunity to socialise. There is also emphasis on healthy lifestyle, with well-equipped gyms for students.
Also there are facilities for basketball and tennis besides badminton courts, running tracks and athletic stadiums.
My favourite aspect about studying in Canada is living by myself and being in charge of my own personal expenses from what I earn at my part-time job. I miss home but it's an experience I would never give up.
The worst thing about living in Canada is the weather and the fact that everything closes early. Except going to a club, you can't do much after 9 pm. So my only chance to do anything fun is over the weekends."
Amna Ahmad
"I graduated from York University with a BA double major honours degree in Economics and Communication Studies.
I was an active member of several clubs on campus. For instance, I spearheaded a new club with a group of ambitious students called the Communication Studies Students' Association and was on the executive team. I was part of the Pakistani and Indian student organisations on campus, since I have roots in both countries. I love to dance and was constantly involved in the organisation of their socials and performed on stage several times. We also won the multicultural week dance trophy. To fill up my weekends I wrote for our college newspaper, The Pipe.
The best feeling about studying in Canada was the fact that I was independent. Living alone taught me a lot about myself, my strengths and weaknesses which I wouldn't have found out if I were living at home in a sheltered place such as Dubai. I made some great friends of every race, colour and religion on campus. Disputes were endless, I admit, but instead of creating boundaries, we erased them. In Canada, especially in university and in residence, when you're forced to share your house with people from every corner of the globe, you have to learn to get along and understand the basic similarities we all share rather than focus on the differences and cause conflict.
The worst experience about studying in Canada was being away from family and familiar things. At first this was a real problem. However, once I settled, I began to love the place I was in and the people I was with. It is easy to be swept away by the temptation to try new things and indulge in the North American way of life, but I kept myself grounded."
Veena Grover
"I am doing my BBA from Thompson Rivers University at Kamloops (Campus), BC, Canada. What I like about the campus is that it is set in natural beautiful surroundings. Since I live on the campus, I don't have to travel for hours in traffic like I did in Dubai. I decided to study in Canada because of the value of the Canadian education.
The certificate I receive is accepted worldwide and it will get me a Canadian work permit for two years after I complete my studies. I enjoy the weather in Canada, which allows me to participate in outdoor activities and barbecue. The worst part about living in Canada is that I miss my family back home."
Amit Bhojwani
"I am currently in my fourth year, pursuing my major in Finance at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), Saint John. When I was in Dubai, I studied for two years at American College of Dubai but decided to go to Canada because I wanted to live independently. The people in Canada are very kind, helpful and polite.
Canada is completely different from Dubai in terms of size and the vibes on the campus. The study lounges are open 24/7 for students who prefer to study at night. The worst thing about studying in Canada is that I have to stay away from my parents for eight months.
Studying in Canada is a great experience, one I would recommend to any international student. From living on campus and friendliness of students and professors to the wealth of activities on and off campus, my experience at UNB has provided me with quality education, which
I consider an excellent step towards my future goals."
