Canada doesn’t have to mean culture shock

By Jocelyn Lagerquist

September signifies a new beginning, a transition, and even change. Students pack up their belongings, say good-bye to family and friends, and often travel across the province or even the country to embark on a life-changing adventure – university.

Jessica Leah Cohen Henriques always knew she’d be attending university at Brescia University College in London, but, for her, packing up and moving to a new city meant more than driving a few hours. It meant travelling across the world.

Henriques grew up in Kingston, Jamaica.

Getting acquainted with university life while getting used to a new city and country isn’t easy in the beginning. “Moving to Canada was admittedly somewhat of a culture shock. However, because of Brescia’s smaller environment I was able to overcome this quite quickly and adapt to a normal lifestyle,” Henrique explains.

Henrique quickly immersed herself in the university experience offered at Brescia University College. She participated in Brescia’s preliminary year program before her degree and lived in residence for the five years she attended university. She even worked as a Brescia tour guide.  “I really enjoyed the small, family-like environment at Brescia. I was able to make friends easily and I always felt comfortable. I was able to get to know my professors but I also had the chance to be a part of The University of Western Ontario community. It was the best of both worlds. Living in a new country can be the best experience of your life. You have to come to Canada with the attitude that you’re going to try new things, learn a new culture, and have an adventure while getting an education. So get involved, be known for doing good things, work hard and you will reap the rewards.”