As an international student, it can be difficult to choose post-secondary options when you are unfamiliar with institutes outside of one’s own country. After completing high school in India, I decided to further my education in Canada. In my case, I relied heavily on my immigration consultant, as well as family and friends who are in Canada for their recommendations on reputable post-secondary options in Canada.
As an international student, it can be difficult to choose post-secondary options when you are unfamiliar with institutes outside of one’s own country. After completing high school in India, I decided to further my education in Canada. In my case, I relied heavily on my immigration consultant, as well as family and friends who are in Canada for their recommendations on reputable post-secondary options in Canada.
Why I chose BCIT
My sister was already residing in Canada, so she was able to offer me insights into post-secondary recommendations. I was attracted to the vibrant and multicultural scene in BC and after many considerations, I decided to enroll at BCIT because it is a well-known public polytechnic that provides practical, hands-on learning approach and its 90 percent employment rate for diploma graduates.
Why BCIT Broadcasting and Online Journalism
My journey began at BCIT when I enrolled in the BCIT Broadcast and Online Journalism program. As an introvert, I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and grow my confidence in speaking with people.
While it was certainly challenging at first, the Broadcast and Online Journalism program helped me to overcome my fear of public speaking, as most of the assignments in this program involved conducting interviews, striking up a conversation with others, and to convey their perspectives on different news topics.
I also appreciate having the opportunity to take on several internships during the program. Gaining real-life experience working in the industry and forming valuable connections have significantly boosted my portfolio and given me an advantage to hopefully land a job after the completion of my studies. In total, I have had three internships in the last two years. I did my first internship with Red FM, which is a South Asian radio broadcasting station in BC, and learned about the radio broadcasting industry while embracing my native language and culture.
The variety of courses that BCIT offers
BCIT provides a wide variety of credentials such as certificates, diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, master’s degree, and microcredential courses where students can choose the course they like and can enroll in courses that accommodate their busy schedules, including online and evening classes. BCIT has five campuses on the Lower Mainland specializing in different programs.
BCIT financial aid and awards
Being an international student, it is certainly a challenge to manage the expenses along with the studies. However, due to flexible courses at BCIT, students can choose the timings for their classes and work part-time while building up savings to take out their expenses.
BCIT Financial Aid and Awards provide financial support to students during their studies at BCIT through grants, bursaries, and scholarships. International students may also be eligible for some of the Academic Awards offered by BCIT.
BCIT International Student Services
BCIT International Student Services was useful in helping me connect with other international students, as well as providing me with resources and help with all kinds of paperwork such as the Medical Service Plan coverage. BCIT International Student Services are accessible from when you are still in your home country to until you graduate from BCIT. And with the fast-changing immigration rules and policies, staff also help students navigate the evolving situation – I had benefited from this support and am thankful for BCIT staff.
Other resources at BCIT
BCIT also offers opportunities for extra curricular activities to support student success and wellbeing. After a day of classes, I like to visit the BCIT Recreation Services to exercise in the gym, take part in fitness activities like boxing, as well as to participate in the many social activities offered at BCIT.
(Photo credit: Cole McKee)