Transition to university for any incoming student can be a major adjustment; transition to university in another country can be that much more challenging, which is why the Trent International Program (TIP) hosts its annual TIP Camp, an orientation at Camp Timberlane in Haliburton, to provide international students with a truly Canadian experience, as a means of introducing them to Canada and Trent University.

From September 3 to 6, 2015, a total of 160 new international students will be welcomed to TIP Camp, one of the only university programs of its kind in the country. This year students from more than 41 countries will be represented, including groups from China, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, The Bahamas, Japan, as well as individual students from Montenegro, Fiji, Maldives, Rwanda and South Sudan. 

“TIP Camp provides a sample of a typical Canadian summer camp experience. This not only starts students’ Canadian experience off on a note of fun and friendship, but also provides some very important cultural learning,” said Dr. Michael Allcott, TIP director at Trent University.

In describing the origins and understanding behind the camp, Dr. Allcott explains, “One of Canada’s cultural distinctions is the way we relate to the land. As the second largest country on earth, Canada is vast, and some of our students come from dense cities with populations nearing our 33 million population as a country. Our relationship to the environment, the importance of attention to the weather, as well as our concept of personal space is something students from around the world begin to learn at TIP Camp.”

TIP Camp doesn’t replace Trent’s usual student orientation but rather is tailored to meet the particular needs of students coming from around the world. Students receive cultural learning, and are provided tools to fully engage in the breadth of opportunities Trent offers and then take part in Trent’s greater orientation activities for all new students. 

“As an international student, I have many different emotions and decisions involved in adjusting to a new environment,” said second year international student, Sancha Reynolds, who participated in TIP Camp last year. “I'm still thankful for all the information and support given at TIP camp because it made my transition much easier.”

About Trent University International Program

The Trent International Program (TIP) has a strong and proud history of commitment to internationalizing undergraduate education and has been a leader in Canada for providing personalized support to international students.

Posted on Tuesday, September 1, 2015.