Moving halfway across the world from New Delhi, India, to Peterborough, Canada, was one of the most exciting yet nail-biting decisions of my life. I can still vividly remember stepping off the plane, surrounded by the unfamiliar chill of Canadian weather, with my mind racing through questions like, Will I make friends here? Will I fit in? How will I navigate this new chapter of my life?
Starting a new life in a different country was an exciting yet challenging journey for me as an international student because I have always stayed in a collectivistic familial environment. Moving away from familiar surroundings, family, and friends to adapt to a new culture, academic system, and social environment developed an anticipation and uncertainty in me. As an international student myself, I understand how overwhelming this experience can be and how crucial it is to feel a sense of belongingness in your new community.
For instance, I still remember my first few weeks at Fleming College. Navigating campus, figuring out how to use public transit, and adjusting to small talk culture in Canada were all completely new to me. Even something as simple as figuring out what “double-double” meant at Tim Hortons was a learning curve. However, these little challenges started to feel less daunting when I met fellow international students who were going through similar experiences.
At Trent University, the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Office plays a significant role in establishing an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. For international students, cultural differences, homesickness, and adapting to unfamiliar social norms can sometimes feel new and isolating.
Research shows the importance of belongingness in helping international students adapt to their new environments. A study published in the Journal of International Students found that feeling connected to one’s university community significantly enhances academic success and personal well-being (Glass & Westmont, 2014). This connection can be cultivated through participating in support groups, developing connections with the peers, and actively participating in cultural exchange programs.
The EDI Office at Trent works consistently to address this gap and create spaces where international students can feel seen, valued, and heard. For example, the tabling events hosted on campus are not just about showcasing traditions—they’re also an opportunity to educate others.
Affinity groups at Trent University plays a crucial role in creating safe spaces for underrepresented groups, including international students. These groups bring together individuals who share similar experiences, helping them navigate challenges and build meaningful connections.
Workshops organized by the EDI Office further enhance this sense of community by addressing issues that matter most to us. These workshops, which cover topics like managing culture shock, navigating academic expectations, and building resilience, offer not only practical tips but also an opportunity to connect with peers. For example, a workshop about overcoming cultural differences might explore strategies for adapting to Canadian social norms while staying true to one’s roots. These sessions remind us that we are not alone in our struggles and that our diverse experiences are valuable.
Together, these affinity groups and workshops establishes an environment where international students feel supported and uplifted. They provide safe spaces to share stories, learn from one another, and celebrate the diversity. For many of us, this sense of inclusion transforms Trent University into more than just an academic institution—it becomes a place where we truly belong.
- Written by Khushi Khurana