Natalia is a Brazilian student who graduated from EC Vancouver this year. Here is her story:
Friends Made in Canada
For me, the EC Tour on Sunday was essential for making friends, because I made friends during that first day in Canada, and I kept in contact with them during my whole month there.
They are from different countries, such as Turkey, Switzerland, South Korea, Italy, France, Germany, Spain and also Brazil. I traveled with them a few times, we did a lot of things together in downtown, and we went to pubs and did a lot of sightseeing. It was special for me to do these things with them because I learned new habits, languages and cultures. And also, my host family was so special to me and made my stay in Vancouver much nicer. I really felt at home.
Advice for Brazilian students
First of all, don’t be afraid to speak English. Even if you are not confident and you are shy, new friends from different countries will help you when you make mistakes. Speak English all day with everybody, especially Brazilian people.
Enjoy Vancouver as much as you can! All the parks and mountains. Have many trips on the weekends, hang out with international friends. If you are in a homestay, interact with your family. It is good to get to know a new culture and practice your English.