Studying Abroad: The Immunologist’s Perspective

Here are the narratives of newcomers to Canada sharing their experiences navigating the challenges encountered upon entering a different world. The interviewees decided to remain anonymous to feel comfortable sharing their stories. For the interview, they were asked to explain the challenges that come with living and studying abroad.

Student #1:

Embarking on my journey from Uganda to Canada was a rollercoaster! The initial months? Whew, they were a mixed bag. Here I was, oceans away from home, missing the warmth of family hugs, and tackling emotions that could rival a soap opera. Oh, Canada, your weather! Born and bred in the land of perpetual warmth, I had to cozy up to a climate diametrically opposed to what I knew. Seasonal depression? That was a curveball! I went from “sunshine on my shoulders” to “where’s the sun, though?” But hey, now I’m a seasoned pro, vitamin D and C are my BFFs.

Let’s talk language: swapping from speaking my native tongue for over two decades to suddenly swimming in English’s deep end? That was like navigating a linguistic labyrinth!

Speaking of Canada: Opportunities? Check. Education? Check. Diversity? Check, check, check! Canada’s like a melting pot of cultures, and the University of Toronto? It’s a competitive arena where labs scream ‘cutting edge.’

Funny anecdote? Picture me strolling into a snow-covered wonderland wearing regular sneakers, wondering why everyone else seemed to have mastered ice-walking. Let’s just say, slipping and sliding became my new normal until the light bulb moment, special boots were the game-changer!

Student #2:

Being a graduate student in Immunology from Tabriz, Iran, getting to Canada was a wild ride. Visa struggles were a major headache, waiting almost a year to hear back from IRCC about a visa was a test of patience. But bagging acceptances from two departments at UofT was thrilling. With my heart set on Immunology, especially cancer research, I took the leap. But let me tell you, convincing foreign universities that you’re the real deal is no joke. High TOEFL scores, GPA hustle, and papers, it’s like an endless checklist. And if your home country’s education system is vastly different, buckle up for an even wilder ride.

Now, here’s the kicker: I’ve just landed here, and English is my main battle. It’s crazy, I’m fluent in my head, but sometimes my tongue gets all twisted when I speak. I know it’s normal and nothing to be embarrassed about, but as an idealist, cutting myself some slack ain’t easy. Plus, there’s this fear that people might not see my true smarts and capabilities just because of this language barrier.

Missing my family back home is hitting me hard. I mean, think about it, you’re almost halfway across the planet, facing a whopping 14-hour flight just to see them. Sometimes, it feels like a hopeless endeavor. But Canada’s a beauty! The people here are super friendly, saying “good morning” with the biggest smiles on random streets. And the diversity, man, it’s a treasure trove of cultures that’s a lifesaver when homesickness kicks in.

In the midst of my challenges, I’ve always ad mired those courageously navigating language barriers to communicate, study, and contribute to science in a non-native tongue. Witnessing someone speaking my language with an accent always intrigues me, it signifies their capability in at least one language that I might not know.

- Sarvin Fathi Danesh