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"Being a student in a foreign country was a unique experience that allowed me to broaden my horizons not only as a student, but also as an individual. "
University of Regina (Saskatchewan, Canada)
Nilufer (Business Economics)
What made you want to study abroad in your location? How did you pick your program and destination?
First of all, I wanted to study abroad in a totally new country that I have never been to. I am from Uzbekistan and currently studying in Japan. Both counties are located in Asia, however, Canada is a Western country and its culture is totally different from eastern. One of the main purposes of applying to ISEP program was to get cultural experience. Unlike a short vocation, I had a chance to see what it is like to live like a local in another country. Moreover, Canada attracted me with its high quality of education. A certificate earned from Canadian universities universities is highly-acclaimed and globally recognized.
What are the biggest challenges you faced?
My biggest challenge was overcoming a language barrier. I am fluent in English, however, living in Japan for more than two years and speaking its language all the time caused a language fluency delay. I got used to use a new dialect for thinking in my daily life. It took some time for my brain to recall English vocabulary and grammar.
What was the most challenging class you took?
The hardest class I took was Economics of Developing Countries. Economics is my favorite subject, however, taking an upper-level course made me feel like ‘the odd one out’ in a class of older students. Moreover, there were a lot of pressure to get experience and get involved in everything. Nevertheless, I have proved myself in this class by always engaging in the discussion and trying to bring ideas. I just kind of went with the flow and did my best.
Which class was your favorite?
One of my favorite classes was Marketing. I have never studied this subject before, but found it interesting. By studying marketing, I got a knowledge that can help me in any business-related career, because I understood the importance of market analysis, consumer relations and various business practices. Also, I liked a teaching strategies of professor. Learning is the most fun when it’s surprising. I had a creative professor at my university who was bringing his own material to class for the students to workshop. It was great fun for all of us, and enjoyable for him as well.
What was your favorite activity on weekend?
Extracurricular activities played a major role in my student life during study abroad program. I took part in various extracurricular activities organized by Housing Services of the University of Regina. These includes ski trip, karting, climbing, spa night, cooking, etc. The most important, I took yoga and swimming classes during my studies. Sport helped me to feel myself healthier and mentally strong. Also, it was fun, especially when I attend these classes as a part of a team. Extracurricular activities contributed significantly to learning new skills and to increasing my social circle.
What is the best memory?
One of the most incredible parts of studying abroad was the opportunity to build invaluable relationships with people from all over the world. University of Regina have a large community of students from local regions and abroad, which gave me the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.
What was your housing situation like?
The best part about being at the University of Regina is that you get to be right in the center of the city with the variety of places to explore, especially if you are an international student. I lived on campus, in College West and it is the best housing location in the city - only footsteps away from your classes and other university amenities. University of Regina offers a wide range of housing type to suit your lifestyle, from residence halls to apartment-style living.
What is one thing you wish you could have done before studying abroad?
The one thing I wish I could have done is to plan and decide I want to see and do outside the university. Going abroad to study is more than just going to university in a different country. I had the opportunity to visit famous tourist destinations, but if I did a research of the places I would like to visit before study abroad I would save my time and money. So, planning and estimate how much you will spend during your time abroad is important!
How does studying abroad affect your personal development?
Being a student in a foreign country was a unique experience that allowed me to broaden my horizons not only as a student, but also as an individual. Self-discipline is not necessarily related to studying abroad. However, this is definitely something I’ve taught myself over the study abroad program. Being in another country gave me an additional amount of responsibility to stay disciplined. Especially, when I was involved in various extra activities outside my study program, I needed to learn how to prioritize my effort and time. I learned to appreciate the value of time, money, friends, and myself.
Do you have any advice for those who are going to study abroad?
First of all, don't be afraid to try something new. Discover new things, new people, new cultures, embrace the difference. Be open to new friends, different people, try not to be in your comfort zone only with the ones with the same language, background. Secondly, plan as early as you can. If you have an interest to study abroad, get started as early as possible. Go to the study abroad office and ask questions. The sooner you get started, the more you can prepare. Create a study abroad checklist of all things you need to do. From getting your passport and visa to choosing your classes - write it all down. This list will help you keep track of all tasks you need to do. Thirdly, attend to all pre-departure orientations and get your visa as soon as possible. Depending on your host country, preparation of visa requirements can take a while. Pre-departure orientations are important since they help you to prepare for the world of study abroad. Moreover, you can meet your study abroad cohort. Don't miss your change! Just do it!
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