Becoming an international student is no small feat, and it comes with its own unique challenges. From navigating a new culture and education system to finding part-time work, it can feel like a lot. However, with the right mindset and advice, you can turn those challenges into stepping stones and succeed as an international student.
Below, we’ve gathered valuable advice from the 2024 International Alumni of Impact (IAOI) winners to inspire your success as an international student, and help you make the most of your time abroad. From overcoming setbacks to finding your purpose, read on to find out what these incredible alumni have to say about how to succeed as an international student.
Many of our alumni attended Canadian colleges and universities featured on the ApplyBoard platform. Our platform is free to use, and can help you find a program that best fits your criteria and budget.
On Resilience and Persistence
Staying strong in the face of adversity and never giving up are key themes among our IAOI. Winners Christine Eruokwu and Qasim Farasat share why resilience and persistence matter:
“No matter the situation, as long as you don’t give up on yourself, nobody will give up on you. And if one door closes, go through a window, go through the ceiling, whatever you have to do, just don’t give up on yourself. Because when you do, then you already called it quits, and the world doesn’t celebrate people who called it quits. The world celebrates those who forged ahead despite the challenges.”
– Christine Eruokwu, alumnus of University of New Brunswick
“Embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Your journey as an international student will be filled with unique experiences and sometimes, unexpected obstacles. Stay resilient, be proactive in seeking out new opportunities, and always be open to learning from every situation. Remember, the skills and perspectives you gain during this time will not only shape your future but also enable you to make a meaningful impact in the global community.”
– Qasim Farasat, alumnus of University of Waterloo
On Embracing Failure
Failing at something can feel bad, and it’s generally something we all want to avoid. However, our IAOI alumni believe failure is a necessary part of success:
“Failures are good stepping stones for success… A person [who immediately experiences] success will never know pain. Because if they get into any kind of trouble, they will be in a situation where they will not be able to correct [the problem]… because they [did not experience] that pain …. these kinds of pains helped me.”
– Lefin Paruvaparampil Chacko, alumnus of Cape Breton University
“Failure is not the end of it, it is part of the process. So when you fail once, just continue. Like I tell people, you’re climbing the staircase, keep climbing, don’t look back, don’t stop, just keep going. So, if you fail, just know that it’s part of the process, it’s not the end of the world. We failed, yes, but did we get up? Yes. It’s in getting up and doing what you have to do, and making sure that you achieve that goal. I think that’s what has brought us here. And also having an open mindset, not a closed mindset. Because I keep saying that my story isn’t just about overcoming challenges. It’s about embracing opportunities for growth.”
– Rufina Ajalie, alumnus of University of New Brunswick
On Finding Your Purpose
Everything begins with a ‘why.’ Choosing to study abroad comes with a long-term goal that fulfills a part of your purpose. Further exploring your ‘why’ is crucial to long-term success, as this alumnus’ advice emphasizes:
“Really nail down the WHY behind whatever you do because until you know the WHY you will not be able to convince anyone else about giving you any opportunity, whether it be a job or anything else. I have seen students apply to 500 jobs in 1 week but still never land those opportunities and a big part of it is because almost 98% of the jobs the are applying for are not even roles they are passionate about but roles that seem like they can work for them and that lack of why is what leads them not being able to advocate for themselves.”
– Ritika Saraswat, alumnus of University of British Columbia
On Seeking Support
You don’t have to do it alone! Building a strong support network is critical when navigating the challenges of being an international student, as 2024 IAOI winner Hana Tran shares:
“One piece of advice I would give to incoming international students is to trust that people are generally friendly and eager to help. Approach this experience and your new environment with curiosity, authenticity, and have courage to seek help when you need [it]. This openness will enhance your experience, expand your worldview, and create more opportunities for growth.”
– Hana Tran, alumni of Douglas College
Could You Be an IAOI Scholarship Recipient?
The International Alumni of Impact program recognizes exceptional international students who have made a lasting impact in their communities. That’s why ApplyBoard has partnered with leading Canadian academic institutions to offer C$10,000 of IAOI scholarships in the names of our 2024 winners. Later this year, we’ll be awarding one-time scholarships to future international students who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a commitment to making a positive difference.
Are you a driven individual with a passion for contributing to your community who plans to become an international student? You could be eligible for an IAOI scholarship. Simply apply to a program at one of the institutions our IAOI alumni attended on the ApplyBoard platform for a 2024 or Winter 2025 intake to be automatically considered.
For more information about the IAOI scholarships, and to learn more about this network of international changemakers, visit https://www.applyboard.com/info/iaoi.
Becoming an international student is an extraordinary opportunity for personal and academic growth. By embracing failure, being persistent, finding your purpose, and building support systems, you can succeed as an international student. Let this advice from our IAOI winners inspire and guide you as you embark on your own journey.
Feeling inspired? Don’t wait! Get started by searching for study programs with ApplyBoard today!
