UVic embraces you the way you are

Members of UVic global community advisory council

Guest post by Maryam Ahmed

The chance to study in a foreign country as well as travel around a continent I have never been to before has introduced me to ideas, concepts, places and people I otherwise probably would not have encountered.

Studying abroad allowed me to grow academically as I became conversationally fluent in English; socially as I made life-long new friends both internationally and from Canada; culturally as I opened my eyes to different cultures and hardships such as meeting with Syrian refugees; politically as I learned to understand the different government and belief systems of the world and personally, because it had never crossed my mind that I could come to love living and working away from my family

Presenting a story-weave to high school students from across Victoria

Before I came to Canada, I had vague ideas of what I wanted to do after my studies. After my time abroad, I became more confident, a better speaker, and more sure of who I was and what I wanted. Studying abroad not only allowed me to become more confident in my English-speaking abilities, but also, I have a much wider view on the world. I accept differences easier and I can adjust to life as I see fit.

One thing which I truly appreciate is learning about issues of social justice. Unfortunately, in the country where I’m coming from (UAE), schools don’t offer a safe space to talk about social justice. In fact, it was only through my studies and my work experience in Canada that made me aware of social justice issues like inclusion, exclusion practices and the privileges that I used to take for granted. Education is not about learning and then excelling in all classes any more.  It’s about knowing that we are all one. I’m glad that I came out of my comfort zone, because then I found comfort in compassion and helping others.

Making sushi for the first time in Victoria

My study abroad didn’t really change my career goals. However, it did change my perspective on grades, school, and the constant pressure to be the best. There is so much more than that! I was immersed in a new environment, new culture and with people of various backgrounds and understanding that allowed me to challenge myself in new ways to learn, and grow – both about myself and the world around me.

Many things impact you while on exchange, and the most significant is the people. I mostly used the time here getting to know the other Canadian and international students who provided endless conversation comparing every little difference between our respective nations. I showed my Canadian friend how it feels to fast from sunrise to sunset in the month of Ramadan for Muslim people, and they showed me what a Thanksgiving dinner was about. 

Seeing snow for the first time.

From a practical perspective, I have actually accomplished a lot here. Besides the few credits and the academic knowledge I gained along the way, all the wishes I have crossed off my list was my next biggest major accomplishment here. I am having adventures I never would have imagined before. I travelled the country from east coast to west coast. I saw the snow for the first time in my life in Banff last February on a job-training tip.

My life has changed. I was an independent person before, but by managing to study abroad I have demonstrated this. Now as I’m graduating soon, I have all my experiences to cherish and learn from. I am capable and mature enough to take the initiative to relocate, adapt to a new environment, and learn from new resources.

It no longer matters where, to whom, and how we contribute to the well-being of people. What matters is remembering to enjoy the journey, make friends, be kind, and not let differences be a barrier. I trusted life and came this far. I have learned about myself, about life away from home, and life in Canada.

I’m so proud to say that UVic helped me become a better human more than it helped me become a better expert in my field of study, and that’s the kind of education that I wouldn’t change for the world.

Hiking in Goldstream Park