{"id":2183,"date":"2025-09-29T14:05:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T18:05:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/internationaldev\/?page_id=2183"},"modified":"2026-03-06T12:36:32","modified_gmt":"2026-03-06T17:36:32","slug":"international-student-profiles","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/international-student-profiles\/","title":{"rendered":"International Student Profiles"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"568\" height=\"591\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-43.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-43.png 568w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-43-288x300.png 288w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"I was privileged to captain the team and it was a really proud moment, representing my country.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Patrick Brandon Kwo<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_8380b5-5e\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_4d7925-a1 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>One of Patrick Brandon Kwo\u2019s proudest moments \u2013 aside from winning a President\u2019s International Scholarship of Excellence to 快播视频 \u2013 came when he captained the Mauritius national U20 soccer team in an international competition in Eswatini.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI was privileged to captain the team and it was a really proud moment, representing my country,\u201d Kwo says. \u201cI got emotional singing the national anthem before the game. Overall, it was a great experience. You can see the level of competition out there and it motivates you.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kwo is studying finance and business economics in the Faculty of Liberal Arts &amp; Professional Studies at York, but soccer is his lifelong passion.&nbsp; and he currently plays intramural soccer twice a week and works out in the gym to stay in shape.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m hoping to join our varsity team,\u201d he says. \u201cI missed the tryouts this year because I wasn\u2019t here in Canada yet, but I hope to try out next year. The team has a good reputation, so it will be a challenge, but I\u2019m looking forward to it.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kwo has discovered that sport is essential to maintaining balance in his life and isn\u2019t worried that it will interfere with his studies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI balanced sport and studies all through high school,\u201d he says. \u201cIt\u2019s the balance I need and it\u2019s beneficial for me to keep playing. My classes are manageable.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping his grades up is a requirement of the President\u2019s International Scholarship of Excellence, which is awarded to incoming high school students&nbsp;who demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to volunteer work and extracurricular activities, and leadership skills.\u202fKwo wanted to study in another country so he could have more independence. He has family in Canada and chose to come to York because there were opportunities for scholarships to defray the cost of university.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI found out in April that I was awarded the scholarship,\u201d Kwo says. \u201cI was doing an internship and I received the email in the morning before I went to work. At first, I didn\u2019t know how to react. I wanted to make sure it was real before I told my parents. I showed it to my mom and she was so happy; I was, too.&nbsp;I am very grateful to 快播视频 for this scholarship; it\u2019s an amazing opportunity.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that he\u2019s here in Toronto, he\u2019s settling into life in residence and on campus. He has made friends, including another winner of the scholarship; the two of them often study together.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI like the campus; it\u2019s nice and big,\u201d he says. \u201cI like the diversity of people from all over the world. I\u2019ve even met a few other Mauritians.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btnsbutton-one-8{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btnsbutton-one-8 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btnsbutton-one-8 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_a32b8a-7d.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_a32b8a-7d.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_a32b8a-7d kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_b30099-5d.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_b30099-5d.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_b30099-5d kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"288\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-44.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2192\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"Canadian culture is much more welcoming and inclusive than I\u2019m used to.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Arsh Dharani<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_96b061-a7\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_1054da-91{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_1054da-91 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_1054da-91 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Arsh, who is studying financial and business economics in the Faculty of Liberal Arts &amp; Professional Studies (LA&amp;PS), wasn\u2019t sure it would be possible for him to attain a full scholarship, because there was no response from York about the scholarship decisions until the very last, and his family kept encouraging him to make a decision quickly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI think I was destined to be at York,\u201d says Arsh Dharani, who calls himself a \u201ctrue international\u201d student, since he was born in India, grew up in the Congo and went to boarding school in Kenya before coming to Toronto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI had always been interested in coming to Canada, since I have a lot of family and friends here. The York scholarship opportunities were really attractive because I wanted to be independent looking forward. I didn\u2019t want to put myself into debt or financial pressure as I was starting my career.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arsh, who is studying financial and business economics in the Faculty of Liberal Arts &amp; Professional Studies (LA&amp;PS), wasn\u2019t sure it would be possible for him to attain a full scholarship, because there was no response from York about the scholarship decisions until the very last, and his family kept encouraging him to make a decision quickly<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI remember asking my dad to let me wait just one more day and the email from York [awarding him a full scholarship] came at 3 a.m.,\u201d Arsh says. \u201cLife works in mysterious ways.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arsh was awarded a President\u2019s International Scholarship of Excellence, given to international high school students who demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to volunteer work and extracurricular activities and leadership skills. At his boarding school in Kenya, Dharani was a residential captain, in charge of 50 international students, addressing any issues they had and organizing activities to keep them engaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a skill he hopes to hone at York where he joined the volunteer team at his residence, working with the residence dons. He plans to apply for a don\u2019s position next year. He has also joined the Schulich Finance Club, another step along his path to becoming an entrepreneur one day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy big dream is to have my own firm and add value to people\u2019s lives,\u201d Dharani says. \u201cWhen I\u2019m older, I want to be able to lead huge companies. I want to start with investment banking, then look forward to having my own firm. I\u2019m leaning toward specializing in finance, because understanding it is very important if you\u2019re running your own business.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arsh has already been an entrepreneur on a small scale. A passionate chess player, he created a chess academy in the Congo to teach chess, both online and in-person, and eventually ran a tournament for participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI love the game,\u201d Arsh says. \u201cIt bleeds into real life a lot. As a chess player, you\u2019re always making decisions fairly quickly and you can\u2019t go back; you need to face the consequences. I always ensure to look at the board and attempt to make the best possible decisions in life.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He plans to find a chess club at York, or, if necessary, start one. He\u2019s certainly pleased to be here in Toronto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cCanadian culture is much more welcoming and inclusive than I\u2019m used to,\u201d Arsh says. \u201cPeople are very polite, even about small things like holding the door open, and there are a lot of \u2018Thank-yous\u2019 and \u2018Sorries.\u2019 It\u2019s a beautiful campus, too.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For now, Arsh\u2019s goal is to keep his head down and work. He says would like to take full advantage of this wonderful opportunity he has gotten and his focusing on increasing his network and connections with likeminded people. He remains grateful to the university, his parents, and his friends who have supported him throughout this journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_365549-e7{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_365549-e7 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_365549-e7 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_2e291b-68.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_2e291b-68.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_2e291b-68 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_634795-eb.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_634795-eb.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_634795-eb kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"775\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-46-1024x775.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2196\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-46-1024x775.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-46-300x227.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-46.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"My dream is to make Mongolia a better country and York is focused on sustainability, so it was a good fit for me.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Bolormaa Khurelbataar<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_218674-3f\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_d62147-66{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_d62147-66 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_d62147-66 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Most students from Mongolia looking to study outside the country choose Korea, Japan or the United States as their post-secondary targets, but&nbsp;<strong>Bolormaa Khurelbataar<\/strong>&nbsp;sought a different experience.\u202f\u201cI dreamed of living in a happy country and I heard that both Canada and Australia were clean and happy, so I decided I\u2019d focus on one of those two,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bolormaa knew that she\u2019d need a full scholarship to attend university abroad and began doing some research. She discovered that York had scholarships that would meet her needs, so she applied for the President\u2019s International Scholarship of Excellence, a $45,000 award that is given to international students who demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to volunteer work and extracurricular activities, and leadership skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy dream is to make Mongolia a better country and York is focused on sustainability, so it was a good fit for me,\u201d said Bolormaa. \u201cWe are a classic developing country, and the world is developing so fast that we need to speed up our growth in a sustainable way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStarting from 9th grade, I competed in various type project proposal competitions leading my fellow classmates, including innovative ideas for improving traditional food, for better internet distribution in Mongolian rural areas, and an application that helps to develop better food plan for each individual.\u202fWhile I was researching these proposals, I learned about how important the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are, and that\u2019s something for which 快播视频 is known.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the day she submitted her application to York, she had a technical problem with her computer, but she remained confident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI had a gut feeling that if I could fix the problem, I would get a scholarship.\u201d\u202fEvery day, she checked her email, hoping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cNo one in my family had been awarded a full scholarship to study in a big city,\u201d Bolormaa said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given the time difference, Bolormaa received her acceptance email at 3 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI started yelling to everyone to wake up, because I had big news.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was big news, indeed, for someone who had never left Mongolia previously to make the journey to Canada to study. It has been a bit of a culture shock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy whole life, I\u2019ve lived in one place and was so confident, because I knew everything and everywhere,\u201d Bolormaa said. \u201cHere, I\u2019m starting from zero. I was sitting on the bus and went too far because I didn\u2019t know how to request a stop; I had to watch someone else do it. And, I\u2019d never seen a subway before, but I now know where all the buildings are on campus and I\u2019m having fun exploring.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The diversity at York has also been an eye-opener.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn Mongolia, there are only Mongolians, but it\u2019s so diverse here that I was shocked. There are so many types of people in the world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bolormaa is studying in the Bachelor of Commerce program at the School of Administrative Studies and is eager to immerse herself in university life. She has joined the Sustainability Club and hopes to elected as a first-year representative in her affiliate college, New College.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI think I will go back to Mongolia, but, first, I want to explore how life works in developed countries,\u201d Bolormaa said. \u201cPeople here are so nice.\u201d<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_081177-67{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_081177-67 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_081177-67 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_1bf155-5d.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_1bf155-5d.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_1bf155-5d kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_3a62b7-dd.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_3a62b7-dd.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_3a62b7-dd kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-47-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2197\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-47-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-47-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-47-1536x1152.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-47.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"My grassroots work for communities in the Philippines has led me here\u2026 I hope to reach out to institutions at York like the Young Lives Research Lab and the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research to see if they can offer help.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Qjiel Mariano<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_565bba-15\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_87df98-50{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_87df98-50 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_87df98-50 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Qjiel Mariano is living proof that approaching endeavours with passion and commitment can lead to unexpected opportunities, such as a Tentanda Via Award scholarship to 快播视频, thousands of miles from home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tentanda Via \u2013 the way must be tried \u2013 Awards reward student leaders\/changemakers who are pushing boundaries by demonstrating commitment to progressive and sustainable development initiatives by making a difference, and Mariano certainly fits the description.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a high school student in Manila, the Philippines, what began as a school project turned into a passion for improving the lives of impoverished urban dwellers. He volunteered at Manila North Cemetery, a spot where more than 10,000 families have created makeshift homes in the mausoleums with no electricity or running water. He assisted the children living there with their reading and writing, because many of them were having difficulties in school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The project ended, but Mariano\u2019s involvement did not; he returned frequently to lend a hand and he began advocating with politicians and diplomats to bring more attention to the community living in the cemetery's plight. Armed with the knowledge on improving literacy rates through publishing a storybook, he and his peers worked on Ladders to Literacy, collaborating with the cemetery\u2019s children to create a storybook that measured literacy while teaching them about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This creative effort earned the group the prestigious 2021 ESD [Education for Sustainable Development] Okayama Award, a coup for students competing against projects created by municipalities and researchers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mariano, by then a university student, was among those who presented the project to the ESD Forum and it was there that he first learned about 快播视频. Okayama University works with York International in supporting York\u2019s Go Global SDGs in Action Challenge, an annual program to empower York students and their peers around the world to take action towards the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a global lens and York International staff took part in the forum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Intrigued by York\u2019s involvement with the U.N. SDGs, Mariano researched the university and decided to transfer here to take advantage of its undergraduate program in global health in the Faculty of Health. Having worked with an impoverished community, he realized that there are many factors involved with poverty and wanted a wider perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI wanted to focus on a profession that solves the challenges of the world and global health offers more opportunities for a broader impact,\u201d Mariano said. \u201cI want to be a doctor and I am impressed by the medical schools in Canada where they add a layer of training in social equity and humanitarian aid that you don\u2019t get elsewhere. In my undergraduate program I will get an understanding of health policies and they should be a good steppingstone to medical school.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI also have seen that York produces amazing Filipino graduates like Dr. Eileen De Villa, the medical officer of health for the City of Toronto, and Rowena Santos, the Brampton city councillor.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAs Dr. De Villa told me, \u201cTo whom much is given, much is expected,\u2019 and I see this as an opportunity to share my resources.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mariano is dedicating his scholarship to the residents of the Manila North Cemetery and his family, especially his mother, Dr. Jocelyn Mariano. \u201cMy mother would always remind me to do everything out of love -- and her work as an obstetrician in the Philippines made me witness the inequities to health access women receive, especially those living in remote communities.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy grassroots work for communities in the Philippines has led me here,\u201d he said. \u201cIt moved me, and I hope to reach out to institutions at York like the Young Lives Research Lab and the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research to see if they can offer help.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, his work involves creating the next generation of youth leaders who live inside the Manila North Cemetery through the Street Smarts Fellowship. Together with involved stakeholders, they chose five youth to be mentored on ways to address the issues in their community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhat I have learned so far in the Global Health Program is that we should be enablers and that the people living in these conditions understand what they need better than we do \u2013 which is why I created this initiative that I hope to incubate at York.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_2d6e58-9c{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2d6e58-9c .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_2d6e58-9c kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_59df11-a6.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_59df11-a6.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_59df11-a6 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_7a00bf-c8.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_7a00bf-c8.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_7a00bf-c8 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"568\" height=\"591\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-48.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2198\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-48.png 568w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-48-288x300.png 288w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"[Canada] is also a multicultural, diverse society and 快播视频, in particular, has a diverse environment. I thought it would give me a broader perspective\u2026\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Chenyang Yue<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_5e0824-73\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_bf0d5f-46 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>With his medical degree from China in hand,&nbsp;<strong>Chenyang Yue<\/strong>&nbsp;immigrated to Canada and returned to university to prepare himself for a career in the Canadian health-care sector. He has recently earned an honours BSc in biology from York and is looking at professional school options, such as medicine or dentistry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m applying to medical school with dentistry as my backup,\u201d Yue says. \u201cI want to work in the health-care sector and I\u2019m open to various pathways.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Canada was Yue\u2019s country of choice for pursuing his education because of Norman Bethune, a Canadian surgeon who worked there in the 1930s, treating soldiers and civilians during the Sino-Japanese War. His efforts drew praise from leader Mao Zedong in the form of an essay that immortalized the doctor after his death in 1939.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI grew up knowing Dr. Norman Bethune as a hero, which is why as a doctor, I felt a deep calling to come to Canada, the place where his remarkable legacy was forged,\u201d Yue said. \u201cIt is also a multicultural, diverse society and 快播视频, in particular, has a diverse environment. I thought it would give me a broader perspective, and I wanted to be part of an institution that honoured Bethune\u2019s legacy as a member of Bethune College.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yue\u2019s major medical interest is in oncology and he has had the opportunity to do cancer research in Dr. Chun Peng\u2019s lab at York, publishing papers with her team and his research group in China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once he arrived at York, Yue lived with family friends in Mississauga, making for a long commute and little opportunity to meet fellow students, especially once the pandemic lockdown began. He found that getting involved at York made all the difference. He obtained a work-study job with York International and assisted the team that organizes and supports student exchange programs. Being bilingual was a real benefit, because Yue was able to speak to international students from China in their native tongue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI wanted to use my experience to help other students and a second language helps,\u201d Yue said. \u201cI helped international students solve problems and told them about resources available at York. I also assisted with administration, promotion and social media.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yue also joined campus organizations. He was a science student ambassador for the Faculty of Science, doing community outreach to high school students and their parents. As a peer mentor, he helped first-year students deal with academic and non-academic issues, and as one of the Global Leaders for the Faculty of Science, he helped the faculty to internationalize its programs and met with delegates from partner institutions. Off campus, Yue volunteered at nearby Humber River Hospital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This summer, Yue's commitment to making a meaningful impact in healthcare continues as he remains an active volunteer at the hospital, which further solidifies his passion for serving the community and making a positive difference in people\u2019s lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIf I can give back to the community and help people, that is my goal,\u201d Yue said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_f315be-70{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_f315be-70 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_f315be-70 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_99a408-4e.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_99a408-4e.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_99a408-4e kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_939109-aa.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_939109-aa.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_939109-aa kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"925\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-49-1024x925.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2199\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-49-1024x925.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-49-300x271.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-49.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"[The Global Health Program] also expanded my view of health as I learned about the social determinants of health and how factors like system infrastructure, housing and the economy all have an impact.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Essete Makonnen Tesfaye<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_03959e-96\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_673b90-03{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_673b90-03 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_673b90-03 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>As a high school student,&nbsp;<strong>Essete Makonnen Tesfaye<\/strong>&nbsp;realized that she was more interested in improving health-care systems than diagnosing individual patient illnesses but she didn\u2019t know how to pursue that goal. Thanks to 快播视频\u2019s global health program, she discovered that a pathway existed.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI heard about global health at York from recruiters who came to my high school and realized it was exactly what I wanted,\u201d said Tesfaye, who was born in Ethiopia but grew up in Kenya and Uganda. \u201cI didn\u2019t even know it existed.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Her parents encouraged her to pursue a career in medicine, so Tesfaye applied to standard pre-med programs, as well as to York\u2019s Global Health program. When she received both her York acceptance and a scholarship, she told her parents about her choice and came to Toronto for university.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe program was exactly what I hoped and it changed my view of the world,\u201d she said. \u201cIt also expanded my view of health as I learned about the social determinants of health and how factors like system infrastructure, housing and the economy all have an impact.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While at York, Tesfaye also began working in residences, first at the front desk and later as a don. She loved her experiences there and discovered that her health studies were also applicable to mental health, which interested her. She also realized the importance of community and was drawn to community building. During her first year, for example, she was very involved with Multicultural Week, an event that brought diverse students together to showcase their cultures\u2019 food, fashion, dance and sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt was so wonderful to be engaged in that and learn about lots of different cultures and ways of being and living,\u201d she said.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She also started volunteering off campus in an organization working to provide culturally specific mental health programming.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the pandemic lockdown hit, Tesfaye was living and working in residence and being part of a community made the challenges easier.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI was really grateful to be here during that shift,\u201d Tesfaye said. \u201cLeaders and professors took that time to think about the types of leaders\/teachers they wanted to be and I saw a shift to more empathy, collaboration and kindness. It inspired me to be a leader, seeing that you can be a kind leader without compromising the quality of your leadership.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tesfaye also explored the research aspect of health at the urging of one of her mentors, assistant professor&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/health.yorku.ca\/health-profiles\/index.php?dept=&amp;mid=1804187\"><strong>Oghenowede\u202fEyawo<\/strong><\/a><strong>,<\/strong>&nbsp;who urged her to get involved in research and learn more about global health outside the classroom. As a specialist in Global eHealth, she began working with Professor&nbsp;<strong>Lora Appel<\/strong>&nbsp;to see how virtual reality tools could help patients with dementia, stroke or acquired brain injury complete tasks of everyday living more easily.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cDr. Eyawo and Dr. Appel both believed in me, helped my confidence, and gave me opportunities to learn and grow both in and out of the classroom. I would not have been able to make it without them!\u201d she said. \u201cI am also very thankful for my family\u2019s support.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that she has graduated, Tesfaye will be working as a residence life co-ordinator at York.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m excited to be working in residence life and continuing to be at York,\u201d she said. \u201cThis role gives me a chance to explore further what my passions are by taking a step back. I\u2019ve been excited to see how community building ties in with health promotion. Whatever I decide to pursue afterward will be centred around community building and global health.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_d103c5-03{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_d103c5-03 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_d103c5-03 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_e4ed54-d6.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_e4ed54-d6.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_e4ed54-d6 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_361535-4d.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_361535-4d.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_361535-4d kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"939\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-50-939x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-50-939x1024.png 939w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-50-275x300.png 275w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-50.png 1409w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 939px) 100vw, 939px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"York was one of my top choices. Since coming here, I have fallen in love with the city and the campus and have had lots of opportunities to get involved.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Svati Balaji<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_a9c8df-f8\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_fd13fc-67 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>When her father accepted a technology job in the United States,&nbsp;<strong>Svati Balaji<\/strong>&nbsp;moved with her family from India to California to finish her high school career and looked toward attending university in North America.<br>\u201cI was looking at schools in the U.S. and Canada,\u201d Balaji said. \u201cYork was one of my top choices. Since coming here, I have fallen in love with the city and the campus and have had lots of opportunities to get involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI really came to York not knowing what I wanted and now, I feel prepared for the next number of years.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the next few years, certainly, Balaji hopes to be ensconced in a residence\/student life position at a Canadian university, something she discovered as an option during her undergraduate career working at a residence office and then as a residence don.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI like helping students find their way and helping people is a value I grew up with, especially as the oldest sibling,\u201d Balaji said. \u201cIt translated to a professional role. Working with students, and especially international students, warms my heart, since I can relate. I like helping smooth their transition to university.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideally, Balaji would like to work for a few years before returning to university for a master\u2019s degree, either in science education, viewing it through an equity, diversity and inclusion lens, or in student affairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s yet to be determined,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Balaji understands the challenges that international students face and is passionate about helping them. Although her family was in California when she began studying at York and later moved to British Columbia, she couldn\u2019t visit them once the pandemic hit and travel was restricted. York International assisted her throughout with any immigration questions that arose, but she largely relied on her friends for comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy friends were a big support system,\u201d she said. \u201cThey are my chosen family after going through four years together. I was also lucky that my best friend is a first-generation Canadian and offered to be my second family. I had an open invitation to dinner and for winter breaks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In her science studies, Balaji focused on science education and pedagogy, rather than a career in medicine or a laboratory. She was in the first class permitted to undertake collaborative theses; she and classmate Jacquelina DaSilva were the first pair to pursue a science education question. Using surveys and focus groups, they pinpointed where changes needed to be made in a genetics course to support learning and to counter common but inaccurate genetic essentialist thinking processes. The pair presented their findings at York\u2019s Teaching in Focus conference, Western University\u2019s science education conference and Dalhousie University\u2019s teachers\u2019 conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe came up with our own question, and it was very cool to be invited to present our findings,\u201d Balaji said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She has also worked as a researcher for Professor Tamara Kelly, the Faculty of Science\u2019s Pedagogical Innovation Chair in Science Education. Recently, she will be working on collaborative research projects with University of Toronto Scarborough educators to determine what a sense of belonging looks like in STEM classes. She has also been involved in collaborations with other universities through the Canadian Consortium of Science Education Scholars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI am very grateful to Professor Kelly,\u201d she said. \u201cShe helped me put into perspective what I might want to do with my life.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For three years, Balaji also served as a President\u2019s Ambassador, one of a group of York student leaders who met with York President Rhonda Lenton and other administrators to provide student input on a variety of issues. This past year, Balaji worked in the president\u2019s office as a special project assistant, organizing the President\u2019s Ambassadors program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt was an action-packed year,\u201d said Balaji, whose duties also included recruiting volunteers for Congress 2023 on campus. \u201cWorking with students blends all of my interest together; my studies and co-curricular activities informed each other and combining both worlds is cool.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_5e13bc-9e{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_5e13bc-9e .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_5e13bc-9e kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_c37860-23.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_c37860-23.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_c37860-23 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_d66f50-20.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_d66f50-20.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_d66f50-20 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-51-1024x682.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2201\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-51-1024x682.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-51-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-51.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"As a Black international student, I felt that York exhibited real diversity and an authentic sense of belonging\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Issa Abdi Jamaa<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_b7b45a-b7\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_b6e27c-76 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>York graduate&nbsp;<strong>Issa Abdi Jamaa<\/strong>&nbsp;is eager to apply the valuable lessons he has learned about leadership and governance during his time at 快播视频 to the professional world.&nbsp;<br>Jamaa arrived in Canada as a teenager for secondary school before attending university. After exploring various Canadian universities, he selected 快播视频 as his choice due to its academic excellence and a vibrant multicultural and diverse community at the Keele campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAs a Black international student, I felt that York exhibited real diversity and an authentic sense of belonging,\u201d Jamaa said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>快播视频 offered him the opportunity to study economics, where he excelled, earning an honours BA, graduating&nbsp;<em>summa cum laude<\/em>. Jamaa was also a member of the Dean\u2019s circle of student scholars at the Faculty of Liberal Arts &amp; Professional Studies (LA&amp;PS).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Jamaa's talents extended beyond academics; he cultivated a diverse skill set by seeking out challenging campus employment and interesting extracurricular activities. Through these experiences, he honed his research and analytical abilities, developed sound political acuity, demonstrated strong leadership skills and polished his public speaking and relationship-building capabilities. In addition, Jamaa gained valuable knowledge in areas such as finance, event planning and project management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI always had a passion for economics, politics, good governance, and being involved in my community,\u201d Jamaa said. \u201cIn terms of personal growth and development, I gained a lot, learning more about the public education sector, policies governing the university, leadership and cross-cultural understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As soon as he landed on campus, Jamaa jumped into governance activities, starting with the Economic Students\u2019 Association. During his first semester at York, he was elected to the student government of Vanier College Council (VCC) as director of finance, then vice-president, academic &amp; external affairs. A year later, he was elected as VCC\u2019s president and orientation chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more than four consecutive academic years, Issa served as a designated student representative on the LA&amp;PS Faculty Council. In that role, he advocated passionately and consistently for students, focusing on the needs of racialized, first-generation and international students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThrough careful and strategic intervention in collegial discussions in Faculty Council, for example, I challenged the tendency to treat international students as income generators on one hand, and social and cultural challenges on the other, arguing that both positions are problematic,\u201d he said. \u201cIn turn, I encouraged faculty, staff and the dean\u2019s offices to recognize the humanity of all students and I worked hard to make visible the unique challenges faced by our diverse student body.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dean&nbsp;<strong>J.J. McMurtry<\/strong>&nbsp;is appreciative of Jamaa\u2019s contributions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAt LA&amp;PS, we make every student\u2019s educational experience our priority and encourage students to use their imaginations, explore new ideas and work toward a better future,\u201d he said. \u201cIssa Jamaa ambitiously took advantage of all that our Faculty has to offer, from employment opportunities and extracurriculars to participation on both the Decanal and Chancellor Search Committees, the Vanier College Council and LA&amp;PS Faculty Council. In his tireless dedication to student issues, he challenged everyone he encountered to think differently and reconsider the needs of racialized, first-generation and international students. Jamaa exhibits all the qualities we hope to see in our graduates: passion, perseverance and a commitment to social justice and advocacy. Whatever he chooses to do next, I know he will change the future for the better.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Jamaa further extended his student advocacy as a volunteer on a number of Faculty committees, including the Committee on Teaching, Learning and Student Success, and the Committee on Curriculum, Curricular Policy and Standards, where he combined his support for students with an interest in inclusive pedagogy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\"It has been an absolute pleasure to collaborate with Issa over the past year on the Student Representative Roundtable, which is a consultative committee of York student leaders,\u201d said&nbsp;<strong>Nona Robinson<\/strong>, vice-provost, students. \u201cWitnessing Issa\u2019s character, dedication, involvement, and student advocacy for positive change have been an inspiration. Issa is an exceptional role model for current and future students of York.\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2019, Jamaa was elected as a senator for the 快播视频 Senate, the University\u2019s highest academic governing body, where he also chaired the Senate\u2019s student caucus. Through the caucus, he supported initiatives that included the University\u2019s Anti-Black Racism Framework. His work in the Faculty Council and Senate opened the door to other opportunities, such as serving as a member of three university Search Committees: dean for the Faculty of LA&amp;PS; vice-provost, students; and chancellor. His efforts came full circle when he had the honour of being one of the speakers at the induction ceremony for 快播视频\u2019s 14<sup>th<\/sup>&nbsp;chancellor,&nbsp;<strong>Kathleen Taylor,&nbsp;<\/strong>in May 2023<strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\"Issa was a wonderful contributor to the university&nbsp;community including his membership on the chancellor selection committee. He fully embraced the requirements of the position and passionately supported how this important leadership role must align with the values of 快播视频, which he exhibited so brilliantly in his University leadership roles,\" said&nbsp;<strong>Paul Tsaparis<\/strong>, chair of 快播视频\u2019s Board of Governors. \"Through Issa's experiences at York, he honed his research and analytical abilities, By engaging in these encounters, he sharpened his research and analytical skills, cultivated astute political insight, showcased exceptional leadership abilities, and refined his proficiency in public speaking and fostering relationships.\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He also participated as a student representative to the advisory committee that created the Division of Students\u2019 most recent five-year strategic plan and was one of&nbsp;<strong>President Rhonda Lenton\u2019s<\/strong>&nbsp;Ambassadors for three consecutive years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt is exciting to see students building their leadership skills here at York and bringing the commitments of our University Academic Plan to life. Issa has helped students access opportunities to realize their full potential and his work will have a lasting impact as they in turn create positive change in communities around the world,\u201d said&nbsp;<strong>Lisa Philipps<\/strong>, provost and vice-president academic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThrough all of these opportunities, I learned about how the institution worked, with its complex systems and governance structure,\u201d Jamaa said. \u201cI also found things that needed improvement from a student-centric perspective by taking every opportunity I got to voice the concerns of students.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, Jamaa successfully advocated to make work-study positions accessible and equitable to all international, as well as domestic, students, collaborating with university partners such as York International, and senior university officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI believe in being the change I wish to see in the world, so I took action in my advocacy for increasing equity, diversity and inclusion,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout his undergraduate career, Jamaa held various professional jobs on campus, such as lead ambassador and senior special projects assistant at the Dean\u2019s Office (LA&amp;PS), as well as a special projects assistant at the Office of the University Registrar. Additionally, he assumed the role of a CCTV operator on campus, joining the team in 2018 and earning a promotion to team lead in 2020. Currently, Jamaa continues working with the community safety department\u2019s CCTV team while focusing on his future endeavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019d like to gain more work experience for a few years before I return to my academic journey in earning either an MBA, or a law degree, or even a combination of both,\u201d Jamaa said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In recognition of Issa\u2019s leadership, dedication to student advocacy and service to the university community, he earned several university-wide awards, including the&nbsp;eighth Annual Robert J. Tiffin Student Leadership Award, the&nbsp;Robert Everett Exceptional Leadership Award in Student Governance, the Outstanding Student Leadership Award, Faculty of LA&amp;PS (twice), the Marilyn Lambert-Drache Award for Initiative in Governance, and the Alumni Golden GRADitude Award.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIssa Jamaa exemplifies the core values of 快播视频, showcasing the transformative potential of higher education and the immense impact of actively engaging in various aspects of university life,\u201d said&nbsp;<strong>Vinitha Gengatharan<\/strong>, assistant vice-president, global engagement &amp; partnerships. \u201cHis relentless commitment to effecting positive change and breaking down barriers, particularly for international students, serves as an inspiration to his peers and the wider community. With his unwavering determination and excellent skills, Issa is poised to make significant contributions in his future endeavors, while leaving a lasting legacy at 快播视频.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of his ultimate choice of career, Jamaa is poised to make a strong contribution to his community and society at large.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_ec98c3-15{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_ec98c3-15 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_ec98c3-15 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_e4151c-6a.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_e4151c-6a.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_e4151c-6a kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_27ec24-de.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_27ec24-de.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_27ec24-de kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"554\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-52.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2202\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-52.png 554w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-52-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-52-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 554px) 100vw, 554px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"I was scared at first, but once I came to Toronto and saw the diversity, I did not feel like a stranger at all.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Rim Mhedhbi<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_82acc8-40\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_93e07b-2c kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Rim's&nbsp;Mitacs internship brought her to Toronto and YorkU. She loved it here and decided to stay. Now, she is starting her Masters at York, in Information Systems &amp; Technology (MAIST). In this interview, she candidly talks about her experience of coming to Toronto as an international student!<br><em>Why did you choose YorkU?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A research organization called Mitacs makes internship opportunities for students to come to Canada\u2019s top universities, and we get a chance to pick amongst multiple projects. The project that I really liked was the project of Professor Marina&nbsp;Erechtchoukova&nbsp;from York. The project talked about how machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques can try to predict floods in Canada. This project really captured my attention and so I applied to the project and got accepted! That's how I came to York for the first time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But I had such a good experience at York, everyone was so helpful and friendly that I decided to come back for my Master's degree, which will be starting in September!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What did you like the most about York?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Actually some of my best experiences in Canada happened because of York. The research facilities are great. Whenever you need info or want to do research, everything will be available to you. You will never run out of resources here. Everyone will help you. I went to the writing center, I spent all my days in the library and that helped me a lot. The professors were really good too. They were willing to help me and guide me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>As an international student, how was your experience coming to Toronto?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>My experience was really life-changing. Both academically and socially. Academically I got the chance to know various different techniques about machine learning, I got a chance to do a lot of experiments. Everything that I had a chance to hear about before, I was able to apply it in real life now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Socially, it was nice to meet people from all over the world. The thing I liked the most about Toronto is that it's like a city with all the worlds combined. Like when I went on the bus I saw Indian people, Filipino people, Mexican people and I didn't feel out of place at all. I saw people from all over the world and they all felt at home in Toronto.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Did you get any cultural shocks when you first came to Canada? Or were you scared of anything?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>When I was at home I was a little scared because people kept telling me I should be careful because I\u2019ll be getting a culture shock once I go there. But when I actually went to Canada, I didn't feel like a stranger at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At first, though, I did feel a little lonely and homesick, because I didn't get to meet a lot of people, but then my supervisor and my mentor helped me meet other interns and then we all started to hang out together! That was pretty fun! Also, whenever I felt homesick I would just video call my parents! Advantages of the internet!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What are your favourite spots around Toronto?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Niagara falls was definitely my favourite. When I went on that trip with my friends, my mouth was open in awe the whole day! We went on the boat and we got near the falls and the water fell on us and we were all drenched! But I was really happy, it was a surreal experience. Probably one of the best experiences of my life. Even the town around Niagara falls, kind of like a theme park, was a great experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another place I loved was Canada's Wonderland. It was so amazing. I thought I am gonna die on the roller coasters but I really enjoyed it! I went there with my friends and we made sure we went on all the roller coasters. I was shaking hahaha!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What are your favourite spots in York?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Definitely the library! Scott library is huge and the people that work there are wonderful. They helped me so much with my research and the environment there was perfect to help me study. I loved spending my time there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What advice would you like to give other international students?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>My first advice would be to just come. You should try your best to come and have this experience because it's life-changing. It really teaches you a lot. Not just from an academic perspective but also socially and mentally. Like one of the things that I learned is that all people are the same. People tend to differentiate it a lot but I think at the end of the day, we are all the same. And when you meet people from different cultures all together in one place, you get to understand on a deeper level that we are all the same. We are all just people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you experience different perspectives you become more open-minded. Coming here definitely taught me how to be compassionate, forgiving and loving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_69f7e3-69{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_69f7e3-69 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_69f7e3-69 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_690c00-73.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_690c00-73.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_690c00-73 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_a3a57c-25.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_a3a57c-25.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_a3a57c-25 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"988\" height=\"1004\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-53.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2203\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-53.png 988w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-53-295x300.png 295w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 988px) 100vw, 988px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"My advice to new international students would be to go out there and talk to as many people as possible!\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Erhun Abbasli<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_12acba-95\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_61dcf1-d2 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Erhun is currently in the Film Production program at York. Not only is he an amazing film maker, but he is also a young entrepreneur who's growing his own social media page 'Filmmking'! Currently, he has over 230k followers and he has plans to grow bigger in the future. In this interview, he talks about his experiences as a York Student and a young entrepreneur!<br><em>Tell me a little about yourself, where are you from?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My name is Erhun Abbasli and I am a third-year film production (BFA) student at 快播视频. I am from Baku, Azerbaijan. It is a country in the Caucasus region and bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east. I speak four languages: Azeri, Turkish, Russian and English. I lived in the capital city Baku for more than 17 years but then decided to move to Toronto for my film career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>How did you choose York for film?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>After my research, I found that the film industry is well developed in Canada and I wanted to take this opportunity to develop my skills and direct\/produce my films. I found 快播视频's Film Production degree program during my research and applied right away. I have also visited Canada before, so I knew that it would be the right decision to move here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>How was your experience moving to Canada as an international student? Were you scared? Nervous? Excited?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>It was difficult for me to move from the country that I was bornin, to a foreign country with a different culture. I didn't have had any relatives or family members in Canada, so I was all by myself. But that was the purpose of it, starting a new life and career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>And how was your experience at York?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I made many connections at York, my residence and outside York with the help of social clubs. I attended many community activities and I was able to introduce myself to other people. I understood the fact that it is going to be difficult to move to Toronto but later I realized that it is a vital step that I should make for my future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>What are your favourite things to do in Toronto?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>When I have spare time, I love visiting downtown and filming footage of people walking around. Also, I try my best to attend film festivals in Toronto as you can meet many filmmakers from all around the world. I volunteered in many small film festivals and that really helped me to get to know more people in the art sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>What advice would you give to international students who will be coming to join us in Toronto soon?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I totally understand the difficulties, language barrier for International students but my advice to new international students would be to go out there and talk to as many people as possible. That's the best thing they can do for their career and also social life. That's the number one priority for me to expand my network in Canada as I would like to become a film producer in the future. Who knows maybe one of those persons could be your business partner, lifetime friend or offer you a deal that could literally change your life!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>What got you interested in films and social media?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I was around 15 years old when I started my first Youtube channel. Then that passion turned into making short films using my smartphone. And then,&nbsp;I decided to start a film-related social media page called \"Filmmking\" when I was 16 years old. Social media is one of the powerful tools available to everyone and I just took the opportunity to start my own page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>How did you start your page? Were there any difficulties?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I started with the first step, which was sharing content twice a day consistently. I featured creative content creators and behind the scenes from movies and of cameras. I reached a lot of people in a very short time period. Then I created my online store and run it along with my social media accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em><strong>Do you manage the page alone?<\/strong><\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>After a year, my sister learnt my strategies and decided to join me and help me develop my business. Since then we are running it together for over 2 years and we reached from 0 followers to over 225k followers from all around the world. It has many benefits for my film career; Many film festivals invite me to promote them on my page and do live streams for them. Film Brands send us free film equipment to test and make unboxing videos for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>Did the pandemic affect your business in any way?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>The best part of my business is that it is completely online, and I do not have a physical store or anything, so thankfully the pandemic didn't affect us much.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><em>What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who want to start their own businesses?<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>My advice for young entrepreneurs would be that they should learn more about online business models. There are many resources available on YouTube and the best part is that it is totally free. I recommend searching for online business models and just start at some point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use TikTok, Instagram, Facebook social media platforms for marketing and develop your skills. Start your own brand and turn it into your passive income. Then invest your money and repeat it. Never give up and solve problems that you face one by one. The key point is very simple, work hard and always believe in yourself!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_dc8a6f-20{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_dc8a6f-20 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_00a206-65.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_00a206-65.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_00a206-65 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_cfb874-22.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_cfb874-22.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_cfb874-22 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-54-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2204\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-54-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-54-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-54-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-54.png 1199w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"Don\u2019t think that you need to change yourself or change the way you are because you WILL find your group of friends. \"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Dishti&nbsp;Zaveri<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_45e845-a5\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_25d4aa-00 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Dishti, a&nbsp;Schulich student and an international student from Japan, talks about her adventures in Canada, and her experience at York!&nbsp;In this interview she tells us her favourite spots around Toronto and on campus, so read on to know more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Tell us a little about yourself! Where are you from? What program are you in?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I am Dishti Zaveri,&nbsp;I am from Kobe,&nbsp;Japan and&nbsp;I am a third-year student in the Schulich BBA course at York&nbsp;and will be specializing in marketing this coming fall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>So how did you decide to come to York to study?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s&nbsp;a&nbsp;funny&nbsp;story, I was planning to originally go to the UK to study, but my brother had told me that I should also consider Canada since it's such a welcoming country, especially for international students.&nbsp;So,&nbsp;I researched and found out about Schulich and how&nbsp;it's&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the best business schools in the country, and I decided to apply and got in! I then decided I want to go to Canada and not&nbsp;the UK and I am so glad I made that choice because I love it here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>And how was your experience coming to Toronto? Did it live up to your expectations?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>It was an AMAZING experience. Weirdly, every person I came across was super nice and helpful. Like even when I came to York, on my first day of frosh, we were trying to find my res- Calumet and&nbsp;since the campus is HUGE, we kind of got lost. So then we saw a frosh leader and I went up to them to ask&nbsp;them&nbsp;for directions, and instead of just telling me the way,&nbsp;they&nbsp;were&nbsp;so nice&nbsp;that they&nbsp;walked me&nbsp;ALL&nbsp;the way to Calumet&nbsp;and back to my mom. Then afterwards they even showed me the long way and the shortcut so that it\u2019s easier for me the next time I go. They were so nice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What are your favourite places in Toronto?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>OH,&nbsp;SO MANY! I would say I love ice skating at Nathan Philips during the winters, and most of the&nbsp;restaurants&nbsp;on&nbsp;Queen&nbsp;street are&nbsp;so&nbsp;good. There are also&nbsp;so many concerts and games happening in Scotia&nbsp;Bank&nbsp;Arena,&nbsp;so&nbsp;I&nbsp;love&nbsp;going&nbsp;there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>As an international student, what did you like the most about coming to York?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I think York made a huge effort in terms of including students, especially in residence.<br>They have a&nbsp;lot of social&nbsp;events in residence&nbsp;which are a&nbsp;great way to&nbsp;make new friends. And&nbsp;that's&nbsp;how&nbsp;I met a lot of&nbsp;people that are&nbsp;now close&nbsp;friends&nbsp;of mine!<br>I also think York has a LOT of cultural&nbsp;clubs,&nbsp;so I think because of those cultural clubs I was able to meet people who had similar backgrounds and interests as me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What are your favourite spots on Campus?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I like the&nbsp;Bergeron&nbsp;lake area and the&nbsp;Quad area. Both these places are so chill and fun. And then of course York lanes because FOOD!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What have you been doing during the lockdown?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>I am&nbsp;actually doing&nbsp;two internships right now. One of them is a digital marketing internship with a vegan skincare company based in Toronto. The other one is a marketing and creative writing internship&nbsp;at an NGO&nbsp;called \u2018Immigrant Women in Business\u2019. So, this NGO helps immigrant women in Canada start up their own businesses&nbsp;and&nbsp;my job&nbsp;here&nbsp;is basically helping&nbsp;with&nbsp;web and blog development, as well as social media posts.<br>I also just applied to become a mentor for&nbsp;Schulich,&nbsp;so we are going to be starting with mentor training and orientation&nbsp;soon,&nbsp;and I am really excited about that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>What advice would you give other international students coming to York?<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Honestly, I feel like if&nbsp;we&nbsp;go somewhere new,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;easy for us to&nbsp;lose&nbsp;our&nbsp;personalities&nbsp;and try to change&nbsp;ourselves&nbsp;according to the people around us.&nbsp;And my advice would&nbsp;be&nbsp;don\u2019t do that. Be yourself.&nbsp;York is&nbsp;a&nbsp;big&nbsp;university,&nbsp;there are&nbsp;thousands of students here and you will&nbsp;defiantly&nbsp;find someone who is like you, so don\u2019t be scared to go out&nbsp;there&nbsp;and find people who are like you. Don\u2019t think that you need to change yourself or change the way you are because you WILL&nbsp;find&nbsp;your group of friends eventually.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_781057-bf{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_781057-bf .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_781057-bf kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_0a5896-52.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_0a5896-52.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_0a5896-52 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_7d7191-1d.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_7d7191-1d.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_7d7191-1d kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-55-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-55-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-55-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-55-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-55-1534x1536.png 1534w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"I thought that when I attended school in Canada, I\u2019d meet Canadians, but there\u2019s so much diversity. I\u2019ve met students from so many different countries already and learned about different cultures.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Mishal Vellani<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_eb74c2-8e\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_95ef5c-f1 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Mishal&nbsp;Vellani is a first-year earth and atmospheric science student at the Lassonde School of Engineering who lives in Kampala, Uganda. She shares her experience as an international student attending online classes.<br><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_287302-da{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_287302-da .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_287302-da kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_8adf3c-4c.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_8adf3c-4c.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_8adf3c-4c kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_abaf1f-0c.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_abaf1f-0c.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_abaf1f-0c kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"682\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-56-682x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2206\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-56-682x1024.png 682w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-56-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-56.png 724w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"I hope to show people that regardless of who they are or where they come from, they can succeed and land their dream opportunity!\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Fikayo Aderoju<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_76d0b0-df\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_2df67c-99 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Fikayo Aderoju is a compassionate, enthusiastic, self driven and motivated leader. He is currently in his 4th year studying Economics and an Intake Manager at TD Bank. He's also a Peer Mentor for 快播视频's Vanier College and a TD Campus Ambassador, where he connects students with fantastic opportunities. Fikayo's life mandate is to impact lives and inspire people. He truly loves helping others reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aderoju, an international student from Nigeria who will be graduating with honours in economics from 快播视频 in 2022, and a circle of friends have created an informal charitable endeavour called Project Impacting Lives to give back to the Toronto community that has nurtured him throughout his undergraduate years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m a Christian and every single success in my life I attribute to God,\u201d Aderoju says. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to wait until I was an alumnus to put some good out there, so in 2019, I started Project Impacting Lives with a group of friends. It\u2019s a youth initiative to help people in need and make their lives better.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The non-profit group got off to a rocky start when Fikayo and his friends decided to distribute food to the homeless in downtown Toronto and found the intended recipients weren\u2019t tempted by the items they were offering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe didn\u2019t give up; we decided to try again,\u201d says Aderoju. \u201cWe became more strategic and did some research to see what was really needed. The next time, we brought emergency blankets, warm gloves and socks and we received tons of hugs in return. Last December, we gave out 100 packages on the street and we got lots of hugs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using their personal funds and donations from their networks, the informal not-for-profit continues to \u201cput some good out there.\u201d This past summer, the friends participated in a food and fun fair in North York. They cooked dishes from Aderoju\u2019s native Nigeria \u2013 chicken, jollof rice and plantains \u2013 and gave away meals to area residents and distributed some to the homeless. Recently, Project Impacting Lives raised money for a $1,100 scholarship to help a university student in financial need and then spread to word to potential applicants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe were worried about what we\u2019d do if nobody applied, but we had 63 applicants,\u201d Aderoju says. \u201cThe whole team has been reading through the applications. It\u2019s hard to decide; there are so many great stories.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aderoju\u2019s good works come from his heart and from his own experience. Although his parents pay his university tuition, he is responsible for his own living expenses and has been working while attending university to support himself. Since Oct. 2020, he has worked as a paid intern for TD Bank; first as a business analyst, then as an intake manager. He has also become a campus ambassador for TD, sharing his experiences and helping students get their resumes in front of the bank\u2019s recruiters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cLast May, I was begging for an internship and God blessed me,\u201d Aderoju says. \u201cI want to help 50 Black students get their own internships in 2022.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aderoju also assists fellow students in other ways. He is a peer mentor for Vanier College, coaching others on writing resumes and cover letter and he also serves as a Dean\u2019s ambassador, motivating prospective high school students to attend York. In addition, he is a mentee in the Advancing Black Students stream of a new 快播视频 program,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/laps\/advancing-yu\/student-information\/\">Advancing YU<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m part of the inaugural class of mentees,\u201d he says. \u201cWe meet monthly to get guidance on careers and navigating the corporate space.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, Aderoju is starting to explore career opportunities, since he\u2019ll be graduating this coming spring, and whatever he learns about the process, he shares with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cHelping students isn\u2019t work to me,\u201d he says. \u201cI like motivating myself and other people. I\u2019m on this Earth to inspire people and impact their lives and I\u2019m doing that to the best of my ability.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aderoju also feels blessed to have had the opportunity to attend York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI called the admissions office tirelessly until they let me in,\u201d he says. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to be anywhere else.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although he initially dreamed of being an architect, he\u2019s happier with his economics major.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI like it a lot and I get to use what I learn in everyday life. I\u2019ve learned time management and to ask for help when I need it, and I\u2019ve put in a lot of hard work.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Obviously, both he and the larger community will continue to benefit from his knowledge and initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_febb3d-28{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_febb3d-28 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_febb3d-28 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_efe110-f4.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_efe110-f4.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_efe110-f4 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_1ce7d1-d4.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_1ce7d1-d4.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_1ce7d1-d4 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"447\" height=\"671\" src=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-57.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2207\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-57.png 447w, https:\/\/www.yorku.ca\/international\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/380\/2025\/09\/image-57-200x300.png 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 447px) 100vw, 447px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote has-medium-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\"My advice to any new student is an essential part of university is also character development. So build your circle, join clubs, have meaningful interactions, and be prepared to be challenged and step out of your comfort zone.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Name: <\/strong>Karishma Savani<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16 > .kb-show-more-sr-excerpt{position:absolute;width:1px;height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;clip:rect(0, 0, 0, 0);white-space:nowrap;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn{margin-top:1em;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16 > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16 > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:180px;overflow-y:hidden;-webkit-mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);mask-image:linear-gradient(to bottom, black 50%, transparent 100%);}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-column{max-height:none;-webkit-mask-image:none;mask-image:none;overflow-y:unset;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(1), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(1){display:none;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2), .kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .wp-block-kadence-singlebtn:nth-of-type(2){display:inline-flex;}.kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16.kb-smc-open > .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-force-btn-fullwidth .kt-btn-wrap:nth-child(2){display:block;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-show-more kb-block-show-more-container kb-block-show-more-container2183_624721-16\"><div class=\"kb-show-more-sr-excerpt\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/div><style>.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column2183_4073f6-d6 kb-show-more-content\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<p>Karishma Savani (BSc 2019) is proud of her 快播视频 Psychology and Business&nbsp;degree, but she is equally pleased by the lessons learned from her extracurricular activities, internship and work experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI had so much fun at York,\u201d says Savani, now working as a Grants Manger with Mitacs, a not-for-profit that promotes research and training programs nationwide. \u201cI learned so much during my time at York and grew so much as a person.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Savani originally hails from the Congo, but she attended high school at a Kenyan boarding school before coming to Canada for her undergraduate degree. Her boarding school experience also laid the groundwork for the wealth of opportunities in which she participated outside the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAt boarding school, you have no time to sit around and relax,\u201d Savani says. \u201cIt\u2019s a go-go-go mentality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At York, Savani certainly was a goer and she hit the ground running, becoming a volunteer for York International (YI), the university\u2019s hub for all things international, and a member of residence council.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI was involved with York International all four years at York,\u201d she says. \u201cI volunteered at events and helped organize them; I was mentored by a peer mentor and became one myself; and I also worked for YI as a front desk assistant, growing the position into one of international student support assistant where I prepared information for staff reports and helped organize events.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Through its Go Global program, York International also provided Savani with financial support toward an internship in Sri Lanka. Savani spent a month there working for a non-profit organization that offered art and music therapy to school children and adults in retirement homes, tasks designed to relieve depression, among other mental health disabilities and concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt was the first trip I took solo and I had to meet and live with new people, manage my time and plan my own excursions,\u201d she says. \u201cIt was a cultural eye-opener and it also helped me to decide what to focus on in psychology, since I found it was easier for me to work with adults.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Savani also dug deeper into residence life opportunities, working as a porter at Bethune residence and, in her final year, as a residence don at Pond residence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI love working with students,\u201d she says. \u201cAs a porter, I got to meet so many new people, while as a don, I had more personal interactions and involvement. I enjoyed the one-on-one exchanges, and we did a lot of events organizing, so I had to get creative.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And, as if those activities wouldn\u2019t keep her busy enough, Savani was a member of the Entrepreneurs Development Association, a club that helped students learn about entrepreneurship. She began as a volunteer before moving on to operations manager and, in her third year, vice-president of operations. In her fourth year, she informally mentored students, but turned her extra energies to serving as an ambassador for the Faculty of Health, promoting the faculty to high school students at various events. In addition, she had a job in the campus copyright office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI made sure I was as involved as I could be,\u201d Savani says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Undoubtedly, the University benefited from Savani\u2019s efforts as much as she did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kb-btns2183_2c13fc-31{gap:var(--global-kb-gap-xs, 0.5rem );justify-content:flex-start;align-items:center;}.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-button{font-weight:normal;font-style:normal;}.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0{margin-right:5px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button{color:#555555;border-color:#555555;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{color:#ffffff;border-color:#444444;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button::before{display:none;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:hover, .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn.kt-btns2183_2c13fc-31 .kt-btn-wrap-0 .kt-button:focus{background:#444444;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn kb-buttons-wrap kb-btns2183_2c13fc-31 kb-show-more-buttons\"><style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_fa5d94-bd.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_fa5d94-bd.kb-button{background:#880000;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_fa5d94-bd kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show More<\/span><\/button>\n\n<style>ul.menu .wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_b7975f-06.kb-button{width:initial;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedbtn .kb-btn2183_b7975f-06.kb-button{background:#800008;}<\/style><button class=\"kb-button kt-button button kb-btn2183_b7975f-06 kt-btn-size-small kt-btn-width-type-auto kb-btn-global-fill  kt-btn-has-text-true kt-btn-has-svg-false  wp-block-kadence-singlebtn\"><span class=\"kt-btn-inner-text\">Show Less<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\"I was privileged to captain the team and it was a really proud moment, representing my country.\u201d Name: Patrick Brandon Kwo \"Canadian culture is much more welcoming and inclusive than I\u2019m used to.\u201d Name: Arsh Dharani \"My dream is to make Mongolia a better country and York is focused on sustainability, so it was a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1053,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2183","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - 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