Testimonials
Africa
"Through Trent's most generous scholarhip, I have been given not only a lifetime opportunity of being at the school I love, but also a wonderful start to the degree of my choice - Biochemistry with a specialization in the health sciences.
Before coming to Trent, I was at the United World College of the Adriatic, in Italy, where I had many opportunities to pursue humanitarian work, and be involved in many areas. I worked with an International Peace Organisation (Community of Saint Egidio) where we offered food, clothes, medicines, etc to the destitute. I also did community/social services with the Duino/Trieste communities: working with local Italian/Slovene farmers, working in a home for the elderly, visiting schools in attempts to create international awareness. I also helped in the coordination of an international affairs program, biology club and did some voluntary reserach at the University of Udine. I also got the opportunity to represent UWCAD at the London International Youth Science Forum.
Trent's offer has made it possible for me to continue my tertiary education in the very internationalised/ diverse Trent and Peterborough communities, which offer many leadership and involvement opportunities. Being at Trent, I have had the opportuniity of working with the Peterborough New Canadian Centre, Trent Chemistry Undergraduate Society, Science camp. In addition, I am involved in LEC's lecture series, international ambassadors program, doning team. All these activities plus working with the LEC college office and the international admissions in the TIP/RO offices offer a wonderful life-enriching experience, and a learning experience that otherwise could not be found in hte classroom alone. Whilst doing all these, I also get the time to do things of interest, such as research, playing soccer, going for walks and spending time with my friends from all walks of life.
Trent's scholarships give the courage and persistence one needs to achieve his goals, and it really enriches the university. I am very convinced that through the scholarships Trent brings very deserving individuals and guide them as they become truly responsible world citizens, who are environmentally, politically and internationally aware. At trent, one is offered the forward leap that well-prepares him for life in this complex world.
I really can not thank Trent enough for the true honor and opportunity they have bestowed upon me."
Sabelo Lukhele, Swaziland
"Yes, it does snow but not all year round ! I love winter now. The snowmen we build outside our windows from the beautiful soft snow; the walks we take along paths amidst large tall evergreen trees and small hills covered in spotless white snow; the same hills that we slide down when we want to take a break from schoolwork, make winter a season worth experiencing and Canada a country worth living in for four years!"
Anita Erskine, Ghana
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Asia
"Third Year International Student from Hong Kong, Interdisciplinary Studies in Politics, Cultural Studies, and Philosophy. Studying in Canada is a multi-layered experience between academic engagement, cultural exchange, and intereaction with working environments and activism. This is why choosing the correct university is very important. Coming to Trent University for me has been a thought-provoking experience and encounter. Trent has provided me with small classroom interactions within a vibrant Peterborough community. Being one of the few interdisciplinary liberal arts and science universities, Trent allows for vital connections amongst different fields of studies bring in a unique characteristic for learning with each other and the community. I have benefited immensely from extending the realm of academic learning to day-to-day activities at Trent with student groups and local organizations. The international community at Trent has been amazingly strong for me and continues to hold an essential tone to the characteristics of Trent's international understanding. With such key exchanges of community learning, I have never been as fulfilled as a student as I have been at Trent. It is simply amazing how much a small community has to offer and how it becomes a home that becomes a part of life. With Toronto not being too far away, I have been able to enjoy the joys of city life and at the same time engage with a small community in Peterborough. Students from Hong Kong will find this to be a very desirable as it will give them a balance. For me, Trent has allowed me to continue building skills of leadership and struggle for change where there are problems in the world. Trent has been a stimulating learning environment where ideologies, knowledge, education and politics are critically discussed, put to work and extended beyond the classroom. Whether you were born and raised in Hong Kong like me or you come from another part of the world, Trent can provide an amazing space for international students to be welcomed and accommodated."
Amardeep Kaur, Hong Kong
"Trent University was my first choice university. When I considered that Trent is a small university which is ranked among the top five undergraduate universities in Canada, I knew I would get a quality education. The fact that tuition and living costs in Canada are lower than the UK and USA was also another major factor. I have found my experience here to be nothing short of fulfilling. The support that the International Program provides to international students as well as the flexibility of choosing courses has made my Tremt experience unforgettable. Being a part of the Trent International Students’ Association (TISA) enabled me to take on an active role in the planning of various cultural and recreational events throughout the year.
From spring to winter, there is always something to do. I once went tobogganing and it was great whizzing down a snow covered slope on a sled and screaming at the top of my lungs! I could go on and on about the friends I have made here, the special events that have enriched my life and my love for Trent. I am glad that I made Trent University my first choice for my first degree."
Wei Lynn Eng, Malaysia
"Being born in a war-shattered country, all I can recall about my past is war, despair and hopelessness. After graduating from high school in 1998, I applied to numerous U.S. and Canadian Universities. I found about Trent through my sister, who was a WUSC sponsored student here at Trent. I was finally accepted at Trent University and fortunately, was awarded a scholarship as well. Trent University, in fact, gave me new hope and rekindled a light in my heart, which then helped me strive for a better future and walk down the path for which I had waited several years to travel.
During my first year at Trent, I discovered that Trent is a rich and diversified community; with people from different parts of the world. Its small group settings in form of tutorials and seminars helps students, especially the newcomers communicate more freely and express themselves more confidently. The cultural diversity at Trent adds to its learning environment. It, for instance, introduces you to depth of the cultures through events such as International Pot Luck, Cultural Outreach and many more. "
Najim Dost, Afghanistan
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Central America and The Caribbean
"When I discovered Trent University, I was immediately attracted to its peaceful environment, its commitment to international students and the fact that it was a top ranking small undergraduate university. Upon arrival, I was impressed with the reception of international students. The Orientation Camp provided the ideal opportunity to socialize, interact and establish great friendships. Attending Trent University has made me realize that there is so much more beyond the Caribbean. Trent’s natural and safe environment, academic excellence and commitment to international students have convinced me that I selected the right university – one that caters to my needs. Good luck in choosing a university and I hope that you consider Trent!"
Tara K. Carter, Anguilla, British West Indies
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Europe
"The relatively small size of Trent University has many positive effects on students. You can get to know your professors on a more personal level and easily get help from them as they are more accessible. The classes are also quite small and you get to know most of your classmates. In the beginning, I had trouble speaking English but just after two months, I was able to think and even dream in English. I could not have done this without the support of all the people around me.
The thought of returning home with my degree after four years here, and the advantage that this will give me over Swedish graduates keeps me smiling. I strongly believe that studying abroad was one of the best decisions I made. I have had a lot of fun at Trent as an international student. We have come from all over the world, we have different values and experiences, but we all have at least one thing in common: we are brave people who left the safety of our homes to pursue better opportunities. This seems to tie us all together. Now I have friends from all over the world, and it’s the best feeling!"
Erika Petterson, Sweden
Interview with Gokce Akbulut, Turkey
Why did you decide to attend Trent University?
The reason I decided to attend Trent University is because it was my dream to come to Canada and graduate from one of Canadian universities. As soon as I saw Trent University and read about it I thought this was the University I was looking for.
What did you like about Trent University?
Trent University is a small university with many friendly and helpful people. Professors are very willing to help every student individually. It was easy to establish relationships and find friends.
What did you study and what did you like about your program?
I studied Global Studies with the joint major in International Development Studies. I really enjoyed my classes. We had open discussions and debated various issues with professors and students. There were many interesting assignments and presentations that I really enjoyed a lot. I have learned many things about other countries that I had never known before.
What can you say about Peterborough?
Peterborough is a small and quite city and yet I have never felt alone or deserted. I really enjoyed my time in Peterborough. It was really very sad for me to leave the place where I spent my 4 school years. I do not think there is one more city in Canada that could be like Peterborough. I will never forget my time there.
How were you treated being an international student (at Trent and in the Peterborough community)?
I felt that students at Trent were interested in getting to know us, Turkish people. People at Trent wanted to learn more about us and they were very warm to us.
Were there any services at Trent you would like to mention that were useful for you as an international student?
There are a few services that I have used and found very useful: Career Centre that counsels students on work and all sort of other opportunities while you study or near to graduate. Also, the Academic Skills Center also provides a very good service for international students. It offers a wide range of workshops on academic skills, English language, time management - all to help you to succeed at a university.
What do you remember the most from your time at Trent?
I will always remember my very first visit to the Trent International Program (TIP) office. As soon as I met these people I understood that I would not be alone in this university and I would always get support if I need. My father was so glad leaving me at Trent because he felt the same way.
Overall, were you satisfied with your time at Trent?
I was very much satisfied with my time in Trent. If I had one more chance to study at a university I would again choose Trent.
Would you recommend Trent to Turkish students? and if yes, what would be your message.
I would recommend Trent to Turkish students because of its small size, famous professors, who are always willing to help students. You will never feel yourself alone because everybody at Trent is very approachable and helpful. No one can feel homesick at Trent. I would advise students in Turkey to come and study at Trent. You would not regret!
Interview with Kiril Okunev, Russia
Why did you decide to attend Trent University?
Well, my parents wanted me to study abroad since I was 15 years old. I have traveled a lot and enjoyed it. When the question of my future education was raised, I did not have any preference. My parents and I went to one of the Moscow agencies which recommended Trent University, Ontario. I had never heard of it before and after carefully exploring the web site and talking to Mrs. Elena Koudiakova, who was representing Trent at one of the international educational fairs in Moscow, I became passionate to study at Trent. I had several choices but Trent was the absolute winner because of its personal attention to every student and unique geographical position.
What do you like about Trent University?
Honestly, I like everything about Trent University. I have made so many friends here from all over the world. I have friends from Canada, Bulgaria, Germany, Azerbaijan, England, France, India, Spain, Italy, USA, as well as Latin America, Africa, and many other places. This became possible because Trent University is relatively small and students are very friendly. Trent is located in Peterborough, and although it is a small city, there are some bars and restaurants, as well as shopping malls, liquor stores and just about anything you can imagine. Everything a student wants, and moreover if you are a fan of larger cities, Toronto is only one and a half hours away.
What do you study and what do you like about your program?
I am currently studying Business and Economics. At high school I was not one of the top students at class; I liked to call myself average. At Trent I have changed a lot. Personal attention from professors improved my personal habits substantially and I became an "A" student. I enjoy the fact that all professors know my name, many know my life story and often ask about my father's; business and my family; things I never thought professors would ever ask or remember. I am convinced that Trent has this aura around it that makes people realize their potentials and get open minded and self assured. I have a great respect for the Trent professors and all they' ve done for me.
Do you think that you will be able to apply your knowledge gained from your degree in Russia?
Before arriving, I had no work experience, but with the knowledge gained in my program I opened my own business in my third year as a College Pro manager. Although it was a summer student franchise business, I have gained enormous amount of knowledge and hands on experience managing 8 employees and making total sales of $40,000 in two months. I participated in business conferences and seminars; I have also conducted interviews with managers in Toronto and GTA. I must admit that many of my personal accomplishments are due to the support and advice of my Business professors who were always ready to help. They gave the confidence to get out there in the business world and make money. Having said all that, I think I am reasonable to say YES I am able to apply my knowledge gained from my degree both in Russia and in Canada. I am in the process of developing a business plan to open a restaurant franchise in my native city Kaluga for my father. I also plan to obtain Canadian citizenship and operate a Trade company between Canada and Russia, having a head office in Canada. This is just a small portion of my plans after graduation from Trent University.
What can you say about Peterborough?
Peterborough is one of the safest places on Earth. Peterborough is a laid back, relaxed city in the heart of Ontario. I would not call it great for partying, but Toronto is so close which eliminates the problem of "what should we do this weekend" type of thing. Peterborough is great for sport activities, it has soccer fields, street ball fields, bicycle paths, and many more things. It has beautiful parks, rivers, lakes, the scenery is outstanding. All kinds of animals can be spotted here. I have personally seen bears, deer, foxes, squirrels, owls, and many other animals I do not even know names for.
How have you been treated being an international student (at Trent and in the Peterborough community)?
Everybody respects Russians here. The Russian community at Trent is relatively small but we all interact on a daily basis. There was a basketball team "Russian Bulls", members of which are all my good friends who will remain my friends after my graduation, whom I can trust and who can trust me. Young students from other countries have reasonable interest in Russians and our culture and habits. In Peterborough, I have found a lot of people who helped me on different stages of my life and, in general, the entire Peterborough community has a very positive attitude to Post Soviet countries.
Overall, are you satisfied with your time at Trent?
There is no doubt that I had the best time at Trent and I have many friends from other universities all over Canada and the world and I can proudly say that I had a better experience and learned more here than many other students from other universities. I think Trent taught me to respect life, be optimistic and hard working.
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Middle East
"One of the biggest changes in our lives comes when we graduate from high school and move into university, coming across new faces in a completely new environment. Often I have been asked how I feel about this change. Well, to me it wasn't a change, it was a gradual transition. I chose Trent University because firstly of its student to professor ratio in classes as per my belief in smaller classes students perform better due to the interactions between them (students and professors) and secondly for its scholarship program which brings students from all over the world disregard of their race and creed and give them a chance to study and show their potentials in an internationally diverse environment.
When I first came to the Trent International Program Orientation Camp, just like every other student, I felt like an alien...did not know anyone…did not know how to approach other students since everyone was from a different culture…did not know that a camp meant being in the woods staying in rustic cabins! But yes, slowly the ice melted and people who were complete strangers became familiar faces to each other. One of the things that I loved most was that even though every second person was from a different country, it didn't matter; everyone listened to the same music and had pretty much the same habits. Coming to an on-campus dorm was another big change…it was moving from the camp where we got to know each other pretty well to a residence where again there were more new faces. Well, those faces were not new for long and soon everyone knew everyone in a matter of 2 days…
One thing which I will always remember for the rest of my life as a part of my initial experience at Trent is the friendly and extremely helpful staff and the students of the university. I thought maybe the phrase 'Help is always there' was slightly exaggerated…but honestly in case of Trent…it is not! I once got lost looking for the washroom and was embarrassed to ask anyone…a passing by student asked if I was lost and on my reply took the trouble of taking me all the way there!
Did I get homesick? Oh yes, I was badly homesick at the beginning (till my third week of living in residence) but then it slowly melted away as I realized…I'm not without friends here…I knew almost every other person on all the floors…and its okay to be homesick…it doesn't t mean you have to go back home just because you are homesick…and everyone gets homesick (common misconception is that other students don't get homesick). I guess I managed to convince myself that this how life is…you just have to move on. But one thing that got me badly homesick was the non-spicy food that I'm NOT used to eating back home and the Arabic food that I had during the weekends.
Do I recommend Trent University? Of course! If you want an experience to remember…you will want to come here.
Feel free to e-mail me at nusratmutmainnah@trentu.ca should you wish to ask questions about Trent."
Nusrat Mutmainnah, lived and studied at the United Arab Emirates
"I have been at Trent University for three years. Coming from the Middle East, what I found appealing is that the university is located in a small and safe community. The people are friendly, helpful and it is very easy to find your way around the town. What struck me about the Trent educational system is the close contact spirit that exists between the students and faculty. This is due to the small size of the university which makes direct contact with the professors possible.
It is easy to make friends and my experience here has been very interesting so far. There are several clubs and activities that a student can join. A good form of learning has been the interaction with other students from different cultures and backgrounds. I am happy that Trent University was my choice and I encourage those who wish to study abroad to make it their choice too."
Yara Mourad, United Arab Emirates
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North America
"I have been part of Trent University for more than a month and I already developed that feeling of belonging. Trent, is a great place to be! In my opinion, all this is achieved by the attention that each student receives from the first day they arrive.
At this point you might be thinking that you are going to be ok, but the fact is, that so many things are changing at a particular point in your life that makes you extremely vulnerable. However, here at Trent, you are slowly introduced to your new environment. It all starts with the Trent International Program Camp.
For three days you attend TIP camp, here you are given information in regards to the university and life in Canada, that for Canadians might be pretty obvious, but not for you. As well, you start meeting people in an smaller atmosphere, so by the time you arrive to University you are already familiar with many academic matters and you developed a circle of friends-which is bound to expand, mind you.
After this intensive introduction, Introductory Seminar Week begins. For one week, the campus belongs to First Years. Sample lectures are given on all the courses. If you are not sure of what courses you want to do this is a good opportunity to check them out, or perhaps you are interested in taking Astronomy, here the professor will give an outline of the course, so you can make up your mind.
A lot of social activities take place during this week (so far it has not stopped), which provided a wider scope for you to get to know the people you'll be sitting next to in your lectures an tutorials.
Residence life, is a nice experience. Here at Trent you have the choice to live on the Campus Colleges or City colleges, each have a specific characteristic that makes your college experience unique.
Extra-Curriculum activities… ah, there are thousands. I'm sure no matter how weird you think your interest is, you are bound to find something that suits you. For instance, I made the rowing team, and I'm loving every minute of it, even the fact that I have to get up at 5.00 am to go to practice, (We won or first Head Race at Toronto last weekend.). The international community, here at Trent is fairly large and active. TISA, the international Students association, as well as the TIP offices provides you with more support if you need it, and an opportunity to celebrate your nationality. Every year a smaller version of the International Fair at Greengates is organized, people from the Peterborough community are invited as well as the students.
It seems that I'm leaving academic matters to last, how ever, so far all my classes have been very interesting. In the majority of the cases the professors are very nice and approachable. Trent is a small University, and for this I enjoy it very much, the lectures are fairly small, about 100-200 people and the tutorial range from 10-15 people, this is a nice number, specially for us that we are used to small classes. The Trent infrastructure is attractive and quite modern as you can depict from the pictures. As you cross the bridge, you are bound to encounter someone you know and stop for a chat. Peterborough in contrast, has a Victorian architecture, which creates a nice balance. Once again, the town is fairly small but there are plenty of things to do and it is easy to get around. I don't want to get the wrong impression of the word small, for me small has been a great feature, I think small is better, than large as in U of T.
To sum things up, if you decide to come to Trent, I can assure you wont regret a thing. Everything is great!! Even the food of the cafeteria is not that bad."
Diana Cortes, Mexico
"I chose to attend Trent University because of its unique combinations - small, international, and affordable. It does not get much better than that. I have found that my experience studying abroad has shaped me as a person by broadening my perspectives."
California, USA
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South America
"Trent offered a new interdisciplinary world to me. I am able to choose my courses and arrange them the way I like. This flexibility has given me the opportunity to improve the quality of my decisions. I also had the opportunity of doing a year abroad program in Ecuador that allowed me to make my experience even more international. Diversity of people's opinion is one of the most motivating reasons to say that Trent presents a rich intellectual challenge."
Laura Chrabolowsky, Argentina
"My name is Ricardo Tranjan, I am a Brazilian student from São Paulo in my first year at Trent University. So far I am very satisfied with the University. Trent is small enough so I can get to know my fellow students and have the faculty know me by my first name, and yet it is big enough to get involved in different groups and clubs, make lots of friends.
I am particularly interested in International Development (Social Work) and Trent is great for offering a variety of opportunities to explore world issues not only in a formal class setting but through numerous student clubs dealing with development, environment protection, fair trade campaigns, fundraising for disasters, woman rights…etc…
For those from the South…yes…it is COLD UP HERE, but you can always count on the Canadian students to give tips on how to keep warm. I will be happy to hear from prospective students and answer any questions or share my Trent experience. I can be reached at ricardotranjan@trentu.ca."
Meu nome é Ricardo Tranjan, brasileiro de São Paulo em meu primeiro ano na Trent University. Estou super satisfeito com a universidade. Trent é pequena o suficiente para se sentir próximo dos demais alunos e ser conhecido pelo primeiro nome pelos profesores, mas ao mesmo tempo grande o suficiente para oferecer diversas oportunidades em envolvimento em vários grupos de estudantes e ter vários grupos de amigos. Meu maior interesse é Desenvolvimento Internacional (Serviço Social) e a Trent é espetacular no que se refere a ativismo internacional. Existem diversas associações de estudantes que estão envolvidas com problemas sociais, meio ambiente, campanhas para "fair trade", arrecadação de fundos para disastres, direitos das mulheres...etc…Para aqueles que vem do Sul…já aviso…É FRIO, mas podemos sempre contar com a ajuda dos estudantes canadenses para nos dar umas dicas de como não congelar.
Ricardo Tranjan, Brazil
Interview with Maria Eugenia Vasconez - Ecuador
Why did you decide to attend Trent University?
I have always had a dream of studying abroad in an English speaking country that would offer me an opportunity to practice the language while learning from the experience. I wanted a politically stable country that wouldn't interfere with my own values and beliefs - Canada seemed like the right alternative. However, I was not completely decided until I found out about Trent University. I wanted to attend a well-known small university with approachable professors; being interested in human sciences and education, I felt that Trent was strong at both. In order to fulfill my dream I needed a scholarship and Trent offered the most generous one! That was it, I was decided.
What did you like about Trent University so far?
I love so many things that I don't know how to keep it short…no really, it is not just for you guys to come but because I feel this way. I can begin by saying that I like the campus due to the nature that surround us, my classes and professors, my freedom to combine classes, the power of students…But all these would be incomplete without people I know. That is exactly what I like best about Trent - my friends and a diverse community in which we live. I have been able to meet people from all around the world, eager to introduce me to their country and culture…I can stay for hours talking and learning from them! I also have a group of Canadian friends who are great! A lot of them are planning to go to Ecuador for a study abroad program and that makes me very happy!
What do you study and what do you like about your program/courses?
This is my first year so I have a variety of classes like Psychology, Geography, French, International Development and Anthropology. My plan is to get a double-major in International Development and Anthropology. I am also very interested in French so it would be nice to get a minor in it. Trent also offers the opportunity to get an Emphasis in Teacher Education by following some course requirements and doing school placement during the fourth year of university. So hopefully I'll be able to get at least two of these. I am also very excited to go to Ghana - Africa on a study abroad program in my third year! What I like best about my courses is that they study issues of my own concern. For example in my International Development class I find myself in the right atmosphere in order to develop and strength my criteria towards the world's political and economical situation.
What can you say about Peterborough?
Taking into account that I am not much of a big city person, I like Peterborough very much. I love small towns that are big enough to form a diverse community with open spaces for people to share and express themselves. It offers both places dedicated especially to students and young people to hang out, dance and have fun, as well as the option of getting to know traditional Canadian families in their every day life. I have learned a lot from this town and that is what I like the most, it is dynamic!
How are you treated as an international student (at Trent and in the Peterborough community)?
I love to be an international student as most people get very excited to meet you! I love to see the smile in people's faces when I tell them I am from Ecuador…of course some people do not know where it is but the majority of students do and will be very curious to find more about it.
Are there any activities/student clubs and groups that you have joined and which allowed you to express your interests?
There is always so much going on that it is impossible not to participate in something. I like to get various perspectives of the world so that is what I have been trying to do by getting involved with different groups and events. I decided to become the first year representative of the Geographical Society. I like to express myself through art and music so this last term I joined the international students' choir- we performed for the "One World Vegetarian Dinner". I am also concerned with women issues so I help out with the Women Center. Every year Peterborough has an International Film Festival so I volunteered for that and got to see a lot of movies!
Would you recommend Trent to students from your country? If yes, what would be your message?
Yes, I definitely recommend it! Some of my friends here attended other universities before coming to Trent and they told me that they could not find the same community atmosphere that they have found at Trent so far. This makes me very happy because I feel the same way; even though I have not attended other universities, I know that Trent is the right one for me when I wake up each morning and smile at the coming day. Of course some days I found myself thinking about the sunny memories with my friends and family but these are easy to overcome by keeping myself busy. I really encourage you to come and learn not only from university but from the experience as a whole! Hope to see you here and please contact me if you have any further questions, I will be happy to answer!
Interview with Rafael Herrera - Venezuela
Why did you decide to attend Trent University?
When I had a chance to talk to Trevor Corkum, I got really excited about all the things he told me about Trent and what it would offer to me as an international student.
I was particularly interested in the idea that you can graduate with a double major from Trent, (thing that I'm actually trying to do). Many students when they come to a University don't have a clear image in mind of what they want to do in the future. Trent allows them to choose courses from different subjects in order to become familiar with different disciplines and make a wise decision on a major(s) they would like to pursue. You are not required to declare your major(s) until your second year and by the time when you do, you know what you really like to do with your future.
Another consideration in my decision was the country where the university was located. Canada offers a multicultural society willing to accept people form different backgrounds or religion, and to welcome them. Coming from Latin America, I wanted to make sure I would find a University with a great number of international students and a place where I wouldn't have to feel threaten or nervous.
The classes and the way you are taught motivate students to keep working. By the use of tutorials they manage to engage concepts with practice and help students think outside the box and see theories in reality.
What do you like about Trent University so far?
I still remember the first day I got to Trent (before classes started) and I walked into the TIP office. When I said who I was I got a huge smile and a warm hug from all the people I had been in touch via email asking them questions about Trent. Small things like that, and the feeling that you are not just another student among thousands, but that you have a name and people remember you, really makes Trent a family place.
Aside from this, another thing I like about Trent is the first week. I guess in every University they have their own activities to welcome new students, but at Trent they have two major things: starting with the TIP camp, place where I got to meet other international students and make most of my friends, I have to say I would like to go back next year. There was such a great variety of cultures it was great to get to know so many people. At the same time, it was great to have a chance to experience unique things about a Canadian culture. Long hikes at night to one of the Teepees, learning how to canoe on the river, or just like me trying to do it without knowing how to, sitting around a campfire at night and singing with everyone - this was so much fun!
After the TIP camp is over you get to come back to the University campus and have a second welcome to Trent, this time with all the new students, Canadian and international. It is called Introductory Seminar Week and it was probably the funniest, craziest, most exciting welcome I have had in a long time. After you are in your residential college, you have a chance to bond with other students. You are taught different cheers that belong to your college; you have inter-college competitions for the great cup (which we always win, "GO CHAMPLAIN") and a series of activities for everyone to get to know each other. At the same time, you are introduced to a university life and things like how to save money, do laundry, keep up with academics, etc.
Even though it isn't something uniquely offered by Trent, experiencing all four seasons makes a university life quite memorable. Starting with the summer you have ISW, the chance to wear shorts, swim in the Otonabee River, ride a bicycle through the trails to downtown, and have water fights. Then during the fall you have the Head of Trent, rolling on the colourful leafs, and start to get all pumped up for the winter. Then winter you can go ski, have snow fights with the rest of the college students, build snow men, get snow shoveling jobs, broomball, and have fun on Armor hill, where you can slide down with all your friends and have a great time.
What do you study and what do you like about your program/courses?
So far I want to do a double major in Business Administration and Economics. I have to admit it has been a challenging semester, as you have to keep up with the work given by each professor.
First year lectures have around hundred students. In addition to a lecture, you have a tutorial where you can discuss different issues presented at a lecture and give your own input and a point of view. At the same time, it works great as a review as well as a tool to develop critical thinking of your own.
The teachers are always open to your suggestions and "they love to be challenged," quoted as I have heard from them. Participation at the beginning is a bit scary, but as time passes you realize that all of your efforts are really being fruitful and you are constantly learning new things and develop new skills. You can always approach professors after class and ask them something or even have an ordinary conversation with them in the cafeteria or when they are around campus. They are really approachable and they want help you succeed in their courses.
In case you are struggling academically and you feel uncomfortable asking your professor, you can always go to tutorial leaders and they will help you out. They are always willing to help you, and they will try to explain you as much as possible so you can understand everything in detail.
What can you say about Peterborough?
Even though a small town, Peterborough is a peaceful place easy to get used to. The university is only ten minutes away by bus from downtown, so it is easy to hang out with your friends between classes, on the weekends, and do your groceries.
If you want something different and bigger, Toronto is a good place to visit. Only an hour and thirty minutes away, Toronto offers great shopping, cultural life and so many other things of a big city.
How are you treated as an international student (at Trent and in the Peterborough community)?
I don't know how to say this, but you really get to build bonds with people in the Trent and Peterborough communities. It just feels like home when you have a chance to be on campus and just walk into the office and have everyone talking to you and knowing your name.
I have met great friends here, lots of people helped me make important decisions and take into consideration different options to improve my abilities and be ready for the future. This year for instance, I had a chance to participate in the first TIP leadership program. A group of students from different nations, including Canadians, got to attend a camp in the northern part of Ontario where we participated in activities to improve leadership skills and to talk about recent world affairs.
In the Peterborough community I have been able to participate in voluntary work. Many of them have shown a great interest in my culture, and willingness to learn more about the place where I am from. I was chosen for the IMPACT leadership program, and as part of voluntary work I'm planning on working in the Alzheimer society. I hope it will be a great opportunity to meet new people from the Peterborough community and help others..
Are there any activities/student clubs and groups that you have joined and which allowed you to express your interests?
As of now I am a member of HOLA (Hispanic Organization of Latin Awareness) and TISA (Trent International Student Association) and it has been great to connect with people from my region and also students from other places who are interesting in learning about our culture.
Different student clubs offer a great variety of events for Trent and Peterborough communities. Also, they organize different fundraising activities to help people (for example, South Asia Tsunami relief, a cancer association, homeless children, etc). This shows that when you come to a university, you don't just study and have a university life but you are able to contribute towards changing the world around you for the better.
This year as a member of HOLA I'll be participating in the Cultural Outreach show. It is an event where all cultures come together to celebrate diversity and talents we have among international students. I would also like to mention an international potluck where international students make food from their home countries and share it with other people. People said prayers in their home language and it was delicious to try meals from everywhere in the world.
Would you recommend Trent to students from your country? If yes, what would be your message?
I would surely recommend Trent to students from my country or anywhere else. University is really a step forward and at least for me Trent has helped me step into reality and become more independent. Getting accepted and then being able to come here has constituted a great effort, but it does pay off to take a chance to experience this.
When it comes to choosing a university, follow your heart and find a place where you feel you will belong. For me Trent has been the proper decision, and I'm sure I will not forget my university years. I will always be an Excalibur with Champlain in my heart.
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