The global pandemic has posed new challenges for current students and new students who are planning to study in Canada. However, there are certain methods that you can adopt to stay motivated if you are new to Canada.
Taking care of your mental well-being
One of the keys to staying motivated is taking care of your health, both physically and mentally. Many of us may succumb to feelings of depression and anxiety. For those new to Canada and uncertain about their surroundings, you can be impacted even more so. Eating healthy food and exercising regularly can help you to stay fit and relieve stress.
Pursuing hobbies you enjoyed doing in your home country, such as reading, dancing, or playing your favourite instrument can also elevate your mood.
Connect with family and friends
It is very important that you remain in touch with your family and friends back home. It can help to diminish the effects of culture shock while giving you the sense of being close to your loved ones who are miles away.
Familiarize yourself with college services
There are many different services and supports provided by Mohawk College to help international students. As an international student, you will have access to certain tools like the iCent app for new and current students.
For new students, this app can help you handle the necessary steps to get ready to embark on your new journey to Canada. The app provides information that pertains to rules for quarantining, academics, life in Canada, and housing options. You can even get notifications about webinars that provide important information for future students arriving to Canada.
You can learn more on the college’s Entering Canada website, which addresses specific concerns regarding documentation needed to enter Canada, as well as maintaining your legal status in the country while studying or working in Canada.
Plan for success
Additionally, you can plan things before your classes begin. This is the time when you have already registered for the program and selected your timetable for the upcoming semester. You can organize your routine prior to the week when your classes begin. This will make you less anxious and prepare you mentally for the busy semester.
Adjusting to your environment can be challenging, but it got even more difficult during the pandemic when you are looking for some social and emotional support. Nevertheless, it is important to develop coping strategies for one’s physical and mental well-being.
It never harms anyone to reach out for help or look for support systems that will assist you better in adapting to your new environment.
For more resources and supports, please visit Welcome to Mohawk.
Written by Bushra Siddiqi - Educational Support Placement Student and Learning Support Centre Writing Tutor
