ApplyBoard recently had the opportunity to ask an international student, Kasun Samarasiri, about his study abroad experience in Canada. Kasun worked with one of ApplyBoard’s recruitment partners, Kalana Weerasinghe, to submit his application to study in Canada. Kasun is pursuing his Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at Lakehead University, where he’s a Global Ambassador.
Keep reading to learn more about why studying in Canada has been one of the greatest milestones in Kasun’s life so far!
Please note that Kasun’s responses have been edited for brevity.
1. What are your plans after graduation?
I have several plans after graduation. My immediate plan is to apply for my post-graduate work permit and find a job related to environmental and chemical engineering. After that, I believe that I can better practice in my respective field. Also, I plan to apply for permanent residency in Canada later on.
2. What did the study abroad application process look like for you?
It was a very simple, quick, and easy process for me, thanks to Mr. Kalana Weerasinghe and ApplyBoard. However, the application process was longer than I expected. But it doesn’t matter because I got an acceptance letter from Lakehead University on my first application.
3. What was your greatest challenge during the application process? And how did you overcome that challenge?
I only experienced a minimal challenge because of the delay in receiving and sending my official transcript from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka to Lakehead University. This process was quite time-consuming and challenging due to COVID restrictions.
4. How was your experience working with one of ApplyBoard’s recruitment partners?
I mainly communicated via email, and it was a straightforward and quick process. I kept my eye on my email inbox every day because I was very excited to hear from ApplyBoard.
5. Why did you choose Canada as your study abroad destination?
My first preference was Australia, but Canada and the UK were the only countries that welcomed international students during the pandemic. Among those two countries, I preferred Canada because I heard that Canadian education is challenging and renowned globally. Also, the cost of education is relatively cheaper in Canada than in other countries such as Australia, the UK, the USA, and New Zealand.
6. How did you choose the program and institution that was the best fit for you?
I studied Chemical Engineering for my bachelor’s, but it was a bit tough for me. After graduation, I worked at chemical and environmental engineering companies. I explained my status to Mr. Kalana, and he sent my resume to Mr. Thilina [an ApplyBoard Study Abroad Expert] to recommend suitable courses for me. Eventually, I learned of the Environmental Engineering course and found it interesting because it related to my work experience.
7. What does it mean to you to be a Global Ambassador for Lakehead University?
It was quite exciting because, as Global Ambassadors, our role is to help students who need to integrate themselves into a new environment while studying to perform at their highest level. It can be challenging for new students, but once we guide them, it doesn’t seem to be much of a challenge at all.
8. What has been your favourite thing, so far, about studying abroad?
My favourite thing about studying abroad so far is the multicultural experience of Canada and the genuine kindness of Canadians. Canadians treat people from other countries as people of their own regardless of their nationality. My professors treat all of us the same, and work hard to help us achieve our goals. I met and spoke with many students and professors from different countries, which helped enhance my communication and people skills.
9. How has your study abroad experience changed your life?
It was quite challenging during the first three months, but I eventually found a Canadian who treated me as his son. Dr. Geoff Davis, a retired doctor in Thunder Bay, helped me balance my studies, work, and social life by teaching me Canadian culture. He’s helped me countless times, and is now giving me driving lessons. Today, I visited his summer house with my wife, which was a wonderful day. It is people like him who have changed my life through my time studying abroad.
10. What are your top three tips for students planning on studying abroad?
1. Focus on your long-term career goals when choosing a study pathway. It will automatically build a strong profile for you to be successful.
2. Focus on your studies, it’s important to maintain good grades. Otherwise, it will be difficult for you to pass graduate courses.
3. Plan your future ahead of time. Get ready to be challenged. Your life will be exciting as a result.
11. Do you have any other thoughts you’d like to share?
I would like to thank my wife who lives with me in Canada and supports me. My parents who helped to pay for my studies, and Dr. Geoff Davis who treats me like a foster parent. I would also like to thank Mr. Kalana Weerasinghe, Mr. Thilina Rajapakse from ApplyBoard, and all the ApplyBoard staff, Lakehead University staff, and university friends who helped me to succeed. Thank you!
Our thanks to Kasun for sharing the story of his study abroad experience in Canada.
Check out our Q&A with an ApplyBoard recruitment partner to learn about the admirable work they do!
