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Raiyan Hasan looks off to the side in front of a building

Why Do International Students Choose to Study in Canada? Here’s What One of Them Told Us

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“Canada Gave me More Than an Education. It Taught me Life Lessons...” 

When it comes to moving to another country for your education, research is one thing, but real-life experiences make all the difference. There are all kinds of questions involved: What is life in Canada like? How expensive is it? Is it easy for international students to make friends? What kind of temporary work can students do, while studying?   

We thought it best to put these commonly-asked questions to students themselves. In this new series of blogs, we speak to an IDP student to learn about their Canadian educational journey and get their take on what students like them should know about living and studying in Canada. 

Kicking off the series is our interview with Raiyan Hasan, a student from India. 

Raiyan Hasan moved to Canada from Kolkata, known in India as the City of Joy. A national level beatboxer, he graduated from Amity University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration before obtaining a certificate in Business Administration from York University in Toronto

A passionate foodie, he loves travelling and exploring other cultures. We asked him about his journey to Canada, the hardest thing about studying abroad, and what he wished he had known before taking the plunge as an international student. Here's what he told us:  

Raiyan Hasan - Why do International students choose to study in Canada? Here’s what one of them told us

Why did you choose to study further in Canada?

I chose Canada after a lot of research. My dream was always to study in a Western country with a lot of culture and diversity, and Canada was the best option. It offered student support, a certain lifestyle, and career-oriented programs. I decided to study business administration as well as project management to equip myself with skills for the Canadian market. 

Tell us about the IELTS and your experience with the test.

I was afraid of the IELTS. For me, it had the impression of a difficult and complicated evaluation of language skills. However, the more I practiced, the more I began to feel as if this was a basic, everyday activity when it comes to speaking English. By the time I sat for it, I was not scared, and I excelled. Confidence is key.

Why did you choose to apply for a degree with the help of IDP Canada?

IDP’s services are free, which made all the difference. IDP aligns and evaluates your profile with the needs of different colleges and where you will fit. The counsellors maintain confidentiality, and walk through you the entire process from applying to landing. 

What were your first impressions of Canada?

Freezing! It was cold for me because I was coming from India. In time, I began to understand other aspects of the country. It's very disciplined in every aspect, from crossing the streets to how you access government funds. Everything is provided and you’re welcomed with an open heart. The people are reliable and helpful. Canada gave me more than an education; it taught me life lessons such as discipline, respect, and confidence. 

Raiyan standing on a balcony in winter

What advice would you give international students coming to Canada? What did you wish you knew before you landed here?

When you choose Canada as an international student, you should come with a plan of at least 5 years. Think about what you’re going to do in life. If you come without a plan and career, you may feel lost and hopeless. This country has a lot of potential, and proper planning can help you achieve anything you want to. 

I wish I knew I could come to Canada as a student after high school. I arrived after graduation and, if I could have arrived 3 or 4 years prior, I would be in a great position. 

Tell us about student life, and how you supported yourself. Did you do any temporary work?

I really didn’t want to work a lot as a student. I wanted to enjoy and explore Canada until I realised I would need an additional source of income. I used to roam around on my e-scooter a lot and a friend suggested I try working for a delivery service. That helped me explore the city while earning because all I needed was a bike and a bag! 

What's the nicest thing about studying in Canada, and the hardest thing?

The nicest thing, compared to my home country, is there are no examinations here. A 3-hour written exam covering the entire syllabus will decide your grade. However, that is also the hardest thing, because education here is more about practical knowledge than anything theoretical. We had to do a lot of assignments for every chapter, as well as discussions, which could be hard at times. 

Article - BODY IMAGE 3 - Raiyan Hasan - Why do International students choose to study in Canada?

What do you intend to do with your degree?

I have completed my degree in business administration and am pursuing project management because I am a sales and marketing expert. My degree gave me insights into the Canadian market and industry, while project management helps me with team management and orientation at an international level. I believe this combination will help me grow in my field. 

Resources for International Students in Canada

Choosing courses for the next term? Or just have questions about what program you should choose? Reach out to IDP Education’s counselors for a free consultation. Book an appointment now. 

Looking for more guidance on picking courses, your IELTS test, or your studies? Check out IDP Education’s Student Services that cover: 

Keep up to date on the latest tips for international students in Canada and follow IDP Education Canada on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter

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