Testimonials from Previous Students
“My trip to Canada has been and will be one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my life. At first, it's scary for everyone. Your head is full of questions and, at the same time, you're nervous about getting to know a new place and new people. But I just recommend that you calm down and let things flow. You're not alone. Although it may sound a little ironic since you're outside your home country, there's a great team behind you, like your coordinators, who will always be trying to help you with everything and asking how you're doing, or your host families, who are wonderful. If you're honest with them and talk clearly, they'll become part of your family, and you'll grow to love them. I recommend that you be open. The first few days are tough, but go talk to people, always try to ask questions to get to know them, and little by little, you'll see that they open up more to you, until they become friends you'll never want to lose. English is very important these days, so don't be afraid to speak up and ask anything you don't understand. Canada is a multicultural country, and people are used to seeing people from other parts of the world and understand that things can be different.
Never say no to plans, because you'll never know if you'll experience it again or if you'll have the opportunity to go again. Things in Canada are unique, and often you only experience them once. Integrating yourself into the country and believing yourself to be a local is my greatest recommendation for making this experience a unique and wonderful one.
Thank you so much, for this year, and I wish the new students much encouragement.”
— Ainara, Spain
“My study abroad experience became a wonderful one thanks to my host family. They were very kind and always made me feels at home. They were there for me when I was sad and supported me whenever I wanted to try something. I’m truly grateful and happy to have a second home to return to in Canada.”
— Sao, Japan
“I felt safe with the work of Hospitalité Canada. They always gave me much attention and answered all my questions quickly. I met the homestay co-ordinator on my second day in Canada. She went to school to give more information about medical insurance and homestay program. She was very friendly! She chose a perfect homestay for me. I am enjoying my Canadian family!”
— Elianne, Brazil
“It has been a year since I applied for a scholarship offered to those who wanted to study one year in Canada. After a couple of months and lots of tests I received good news: I was accepted in the program! Shortly thereafter, Hospitalité Canada sent me more information about the city, the high school and the people I was going to live with. It was very exciting and also a little bit scary to think that I was going to spend ten months away from my family and friends. I can hardly remember when I arrived at the airport. I was very tired but Marina kept me and the other two students awake by explaining what St. Catharines looked like. I felt welcomed in Canada. I started my adventure with one Canadian Host Family which was lovely and showed me many things but unfortunately was not the best fit for me. I called Marina several times and she gave me support and advice. It made me feel less homesick; however, one day I met with Marina after school to talk about the family and I told her that I didn't feel too comfortable with them. Even though it was hard to take the decision of moving, I didn't regret it. I had a lot in common with the new family and we spent eight wonderful months together. Even though the first month away from home was hard, my experience became positive with the support of Hospitalité Canada. I am glad to say that I have grown so much during my incredible experience in Canada. I wouldn't change it for anything.”