Written by Chandra Kala Sharma
Making life-altering decisions is always a challenge, especially when financial struggles have been the compass guiding every choice I’ve made. The idea of determining what’s best for myself felt like an uphill battle, with circumstances dictating my decisions. As I found myself standing at the crossroads of life after completing my bachelor’s degree, the notion of studying abroad germinated in my mind.
However, picking a place to study was hard. My husband and I thought about job options, stability, and future prospects. We explored various countries like Australia, the UK, the USA, and even India. After careful thinking, we chose Canada. This choice showed my bravery to imagine a life without restrictions, filled with learning and adventures.
Stepping onto Canadian soil during winter was like entering a different universe. The cold embrace of the snow-covered landscape was a stark contrast to what I had known.
I come from Bhutan, a place full of mountains, green valleys, and fast rivers. Everywhere you look, there’s nature’s beauty and clean air to breathe. It’s a small country with not many people and a calm atmosphere.
When I arrived in Canada, where life seemed to be all about racing ahead, it made me feel uncomfortable. At that moment, doubt crept in, urging me to retreat. But I reminded myself that this discomfort was just the prologue of the challenges I’d face. Conquering the initial unease was important to overcoming the hurdles that lay ahead.
Being an international student had its tough moments. I remember getting lost because of confusing maps and bus routes. Waiting for the wrong bus taught me to be adaptable and quick on my feet. Every challenge turned into a lesson that helped me grow. Life as an international student wasn’t always easy. Some days were great, like when I did well on exams or made friends. On other days, I felt homesick and unsure. But I knew I had to conquer that.
Experiencing culture shock is scarier than I thought. Just knowing the language isn’t sufficient. Canada is a mix of many cultures where everyone can follow their own ways. However, feeling comfortable and communicating can be a challenge. It gets easier when we make an effort to really understand each person. That’s what I did. I learn something new from people around me every day – how they act, talk, and what they do. By staying open to learning, changing what we know, and letting go of old ideas, things become smoother.
Well, my journey as an international student has been about facing difficulties and discovering my inner strength. Choosing to study abroad, despite financial challenges, taught me to overcome tough situations. The lessons I learned—adapting to new surroundings, making brave choices, and embracing discomfort—have shaped me in ways I never expected.
As I continue my adventure in Canada, I carry the memories of turning struggles into stepping stones and challenges into opportunities. My story is for anyone on a similar journey, showing that every experience, big or small, helps us become who we truly are.
I am Chandra Kala Sharma, an aspiring PR and communication professional. I am a Public Relations graduate and currently working as Project and Communications Assistant-Co-op student at Tribunals Ontario I Tribunaux décisionnels Ontario. I am also a Gender-Based and Sexual Violence Preventiion Education Peer Ambassador at Seneca Polytechnic.Apart from that, I am a blogger, educator and a passionate volunteer. I read, listen, and smile often.
