For my fellow international students, I’d appreciate if you could share your feelings when you arrived in Canada and perhaps any helpful lessons you may want to share for those starting their journey 🤗❤️🇨🇦 It’s a great feeling to know that I’m not alone and there’s people out there that share the same feelings as I do. Much love! 😭❤️

I came to Vancouver in an International Experience Canada pathway. I got qualified to apply for PR after a year of work experience under CEC, then got my citizenship after 3ish years. When I officially become a Canadian, well Vancouverite to be specific, I left and moved back to Singapore which was my first overseas country outside of my homeland, Germany. There are number of reasons why I have a love-hate relationship with Vancouver: 1) Poor infrastractures in general. It's not as efficient as expected or perhaps my expectations were too high because I was in Singapore before I moved to Vancouver. 2) Vancouver prices are brutal (rent, subscriptions, memberships, transpo cost both land and air travel, food, groceries, etc.). At least hydro price is minimal, buy CO2 emissions is at peak. 3) Average wage/salary doesn't compensate to the cost of living. I can earn 2.5x the annual salary of the same job elsewhere (Singapore in my case) with lower taxes although similar cost of living, but then again the ratio of your salary over expenses is much higher in SG as compared to Vancouver. 4) Nature is beautiful because you got so much to see and do, but for many reasons it's also depressing. I'm getting that vibe. 5) Dangerous drivers. Traffic is bad but drivers are the worst. 6) Homelessness. It's like having an FB account but being a poser. You promote the good things while hiding your flaws. 7) Anti Social (dating, nightlife, don't even know your neighbours, etc.. ), which makes it feeling homesick. To be honest, locals want to move out of the country and live and work eleswhere, while an influx of immigrants coming in is evident. 8) Self-Entitlement. I don't want to elaborate it beause it tackles racism and equality. I guess the majority of locals haven't totally experience what other's culture is like. Gotta go travel outside of North America peepz! 9) Weather. You get the rain in the Fall and Winter season, then wildfires, smoke and haze in the Summer. Well, I don't mind the rain because it doesn't really get to a cyclone level, but I hate not seeing the sun and just grey sky for months. Aditionally, the haze coming from the interior BC during Summer is pretty disappointing. 10) Although as they say people are polite, but that doesn't mean they're friendly or at least wants to be friends with you 😂. I'm lucky my flatmate back in Singapore is a Canadian so it was a smooth introduction to fit-in with his group of friends since their 4th grade and up until now I'm still in contact with them. However, if your an immigrant, a visitor, travel and work nomad, an international student or basically an expat then you'll be just around hanging out with similar group. I can tell that it's really difficult to penetrate the local groups because they do really have a tight-knit groups since their childhood. There will always be an invisible wall between locals and outsiders. A sutle barrier but with strong aura. Overall, I guess these experiences also applies not only in Vancouver but across Canada. For sure there's free education, healthcare, child care benefits, etc... but it will liver off your profit through hefty taxes and insane prices as such. It's just my toonie view. I maybe wrong, but I'm way more happier where I am now. The qaulity of life and the impression of the most liveable and happiest city not lies with surveys but within yourself. Always start with Why. Cheers 😉

TBH, naluha ako. I felt every point you shared. Thanks for sharing this part of your story and for giving us some insights on how our life could be when it's our turn to be in Canada. ☺️

I cried for two weeks straight before my flight! But I'm used to living on my own and traveling solo so that part didn't faze me. The biggest adjustment was the lifestyle change. I never cooked or cleaned my apartment in PH because I could afford to eat out 3x a day and pay a cleaning lady to clean my apartment weekly. I never had to think if I could afford to eat at any restaurant. Then when I got here... Hahaha! It's a totally new experience. But I'm thankful for it because it's humbling and gave me a new perspective. I know people who are in similar situations and are ashamed of it. But I am not because I expected this and chose to do this because there's no shame in starting from the bottom... again

I can relate to this and thank you for this. Yes, it’s hard to muster everything to be mentally strong but we can always tell ourselves to KEEP GOING 🥰

Hi Rachel! I’m always a silent follower of yours. Although I’ve been wanting to comment to thank you for all your informative videos, I’m kinda shy to do so. But this video is an exemption. Thank you! It means a lot to me to hear this from someone else. God bless you and your passion to help and educate others. I hope one day I’m able to tell you, I made it to Canada 🥰🙏

I’m in Ontario rn as an international student and I agree with everything you said. The feeling of loneliness and overwhelming anxiety about what’s going to happen after graduation is extremely difficult for me to deal with sometimes, but I manage to do my best in class and part-time work. Wish all the best to fellow internationals here in Canada 🇨🇦❤️

I was really needing this video, I've been here in Vancouver for almost 5 months and today is my birthday, my first birthday away from my family, and as you said at first I didn't realize that I was away from my country. In all this time I have changing little by little, experiencing new things that made me overthinking everything and when you don't know anyone it's hard to connect with people, for me it have been too difficult get friends here because I don't feel like I belong to this place. I know I have a long way to go and I hope find my way soon.

These past few months have been the toughest for me. I'm in my 4th year in uni as an international student in Canada and I have been going through a lot of anxiety and pressure. Watching this video has honestly made me feel better knowing that someone out there was also going through what I am experiencing right now which made me feel less alone. Thank you ate for sharing this

Right on Rache!! Love this video! ♥️ Couples have slightly different challenges but homesickness definitely hit hard! As well as for matured international students like us, it’s really hard to go back to school and work at the same time. But as they said, eyes on the prize! Everything is soooo worth it after getting PR! Just continue doing what you’re doing! You definitely bloomed where you’re planted. 🌸 We appreciate you!

My takeaways: ☆ Progress is made up of small achievements. ☆Your experiences will only make you stronger, so have faith in yourself. 💕 One day, I'll be in Canada too. 🇨🇦 Thank you Rachel! Keep safe and healthy! ✨

1 month in and I have felt some of this as well. Thank you for sharing. Your youtube fans are here for you and you are never alone. Keep going you can do it

This is so true in so many levels for every international student. Thank you Rachel for speaking up and making this video. Not a lot of international students talk about the emotional struggle we are experiencing day by day. People only think that we are so lucky because we are living the so called “dream” life.

Rachel, thank you for sharing. I totally agree to all you have shared here. Your are a big help to my Canada journey and happy to share with you that I made it. 😊

You inspire us Rachel. Thank you for making this, for being honest. God bless you always.

My doubtful self is grateful for stumbling upon your vid, Rachel! The pieces of advice you mentioned in the end are all true for someone struggling mentally and/or emotionally, and specifically when you are on a phase of making adjustment. This makes me reflect on my potentials to look for the courage and hope that has been buried all these years. Now, I can say that taking a leap of faith is the first step in making my dreams a reality.

Thank you so much for this…I am going trough this steps right now..I do have a lot of friends who went trough the same as me, but it is totally different when you start talking right away instead of just talking when you have been successful…thank you for this words I needed them…

Wonderful video!!! very honest and very well spoken, I simply loved it! good job Rachel! and thank you for the advices and inspiration 🙏

Very interesting presentation! Sharing your personal experience like that helps a lot of people who is thinking it’s all rainbows and butterflies here. Thanks Rachel 😍

Thank you for always telling us the reality and not sugar coating over things.. always be your fan🤍

Young & Brave. Stay candid🙂 All good hopes on your Life journey and thanks for sharing. Cheers!

Suddenly been planning to go there and this just gave me a whole lot of perspective. Thank you for making this video! New sub right here!

Thank you for this Rach, this really means soo much!

Opening up to talk about things that others don't is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of unwavering strength and confidence. And you've got it Racheal !!!

That hit me hard when I decided to make a big change in my life and have faith in yourself is very important. This video helps a lot. Thank you Rachel 😊🤗

Very balanced message. Thank you for your honesty! Best wishes!

Thank you for sharing your insights Rachel! I needed to hear this. Will be staying in Vancouver by January once I get my study permit. Good luck on your future endeavors :) You’ve got this!!

I will be stuyding in Toronto in january and i’m so nervous and have so many thoughts about it but your videos are really helping me out to prepare strong and also encouraging me so thank you and keep the good work up for the rest of people who are thinking to study abroad please :)

This is really something that a student or anyone who’s moving to a different country needs. Something personal experience that someone really went through. This is very helpful rach! I hope to see you in Vancouver soon 🙏🏽

Well said. I can feel your pressure as an Intl student not just finishing school also for PR status. It's really touching throughout them I would say.

thanks for sharing your story! I’m just starting here in Ontario as an IS and everything you said are true. God bless you and continue to inspire people!

Thanks for the honest sharing/reflections. I am glad you pulled through.

Beautiful video! Every word was relatable. And the last part was just what I needed. Thanks Rachel

the honestly and assertion in this video is so on point. how difficult can life be when ur already in canada hmmm word. thank u Rachel.

It’s been 6 months now since I came to Canadá to study. Thank you for this video, you made me think about the things that I’m doing and the things that I’’M NOT doing. So I have to focus on the moment, don’t let negative emotions control my days. Once again, thank you Rachel!

I needed to see this. Thank you Rachel!

We needed this so badly right now specially the last part. Thank you.

Thank you for giving us, aspiring international students, a heads up about this. This hit me hard. :)

We have been through that journey and more important than anything is to have belief in yourself and that you can make it. Kudos to you! 👍🏻👍🏻

Hey Rachel, I remember reaching out to you a couple of months being all confused about what university and colleges and also about jobs. You have been honest, patient and just pure about everything. This channel has been my go to place to get information about studying in Canada. I have got into BCIT and I really hope it works out well. I am so glad you posted this video because it just reminds me that we are all going to face it and it’s okay to talk about it. This video moved me :) Thank you for being yourself! Lots of love ❤️🌸 You have definitely inspired many of us❤️

Thanks for opening up about this, Rachel. I've been a fan of your videos since I started working on my application a year ago, and by God's grace, I'll be leaving for Canada this December. I'm honestly so anxious about going and I have lots of worries and fears. Seeing you thrive despite what you've mentioned here gives me a lot of strength. Keep safe always and more power to your channel 💗

this is so timely. thank you so much for the inspiring words. i just got approved yesterday and i didn't know how i should react at first. i was really thrilled and sad at the same time. i am only 17 but i need to leave my family and friends to find and chase my dreams. i really am grateful for this wonderful video.

I've been watching almost all of your videos but thank you so much for this particular video. Gave me a quick boost and realized I'm not the only one. You resonated my thoughts Rache! Hope we get to meet some day

You got me to my feelings. Ill be moving to toronto in April and your videos have helped me so much. Thanks for being vulnerable with us, rally appreciate it

Thanks for sharing your experiences.

Exceptional exchange of feeling & actual picture!!

Very timely! Thank you, Rachel! 🤗

Thanks for creating this vid. This is an inspiration to persevere.. ❤️

So wonderful:) It was one of the videos that was objective but also very human.

This helps a lot, I just moved here, and I feel everything that you said. It is not easy. Thank you

You are such amazing person i love ur energy am so happy you get through all ur ups and down thats makes you a stronger person all the best to you for the future love you.

This is so real and I’m just getting over it right now. I moved to Canada a month ago and It was so difficult, at some point I felt like going back to my family🙈… I’m getting used to it now and I know it will get better. Thanks for sharing, this is the first time I’ll be seeing a video like this. 👍🏼

Just wanna tell you , it's really hard to open up with your feelings and you said it in an easy way for us to understand you viewpoint. I have seen many types of videos related to Canada for international students but your is amazing. Keep it up ✨

Pretty solid description of the stages of culture shock and then some.

*Thank you for telling this. Much needed!*

This is just perfect timing! I just moved here and was feeling exactly the same about all Thanks a lot :) PS. Love your outfits

Oh gosh you basically told my journey in Canada. Its the best thing ever but it does come with hardship and you mentally and physically need to be prepare for it. But again I will have it no otherway😌

You are such an honest and kind person😍!!! God bless you and your family🙏🏻!!!

Ahhhhhhhh. This made me so emotional!! :( I'm 23 years old & will be in Canada this winter & what you said in the beginning really resonated with me. I've never been away from my family & this will be my first time being away from them. And ahhhhh im so excited to leave but at the same time I feel like the anxiety is building up, you know? Anyways, thank you so much for sharing this! I really do appreciate your content

🥺thankyou for this video, i’m planning to come as an international student next fall, been anxious about it since i’m a mature student, thinking about it alot then i saw your video today and it somehow makes me feel stronger and i believe i can do it, wish me luck🤍

Thanks Rachel, very informative...stay safe sis.

You are an inspiration to everyone. A genuine person with a big ❤️.

Definitely relatable. I have just moved here in late August, and I am already feeling every bit of this. I wish everyone good luck and positivity on their journey, I hope we all become successful in our goals.

Thanks for sharing your experiences 🥺🙁 U r Courageous girl 🙏🙏❤❤

This is an eye opener. Thank you

Youre so brave and smart. Im sure your parents are very proud of you.

Great video! Thanks for the advices. I am feeling now what you said.

Just admire your kinda Adan awra! It goes with your strong personality. Stay courageous and uniquely beautiful!

I am considering studying and eventually moving to Canada. But I’m still so scared of everything, especially since I am an introvert who gets easily overwhelmed with new social situations. That is why I greatly appreciate your content, it’s honest and true and does not sugar coat reality. Thank you, and I hope to be as mentally and emotionally strong as you are 🙏🏻

I'm watching this rn and I'm 20yrs old... my sister's planning me to bring there after graduating here in the Philippines and getting this learnings from you somehow comforts me, although I am still far from it. 💗

Thanks for being so genuine and opening up on this video. You being so in tuned with your emotions at the same time still rational and articulate makes you such a great storyteller/content creator! Giiiirl you a shrink too or something? Kidding aside, keep these quality videos coming! ✨

Thank u Rachel for sharing. Hope to see u in CA.

Thanks for sharing, Rachel! ♡♡♡

Your last words left me crying...Planning to come there next fall! (For Higher Studies!) Hoping to meet you some day soon...Oh and you got +1 Sub!😊

Thank you for this Rachel. You are one brave woman! :) I’ll be coming to Canada this December as an International Student. Just the thought of not spending Christmas with my family saddens me. :(

I can relate,I'm also a new international student,I wish someone had told me some of the things before.Its hard but by God's grace we move 🙏

Thanks for this! This is really helpful cuz I'm also planning to go go there. It will helps me to ready my mental and emotional beings to survive to that country in there future. Thank you and God bless you always!❤️

So grateful talaga to watch your vids kase I'm planning to go Canada soon! This gives me mental preparedness.😌

Thank you for this wonderful video 👍

Thank you Rachel for sharing everything. Your feelings are well-respected and understood. What you've shared can help all international students like us Filipino International students coming to Canada. 🇨🇦🍁 BLESSINGS.

You were so brave taking one year course. It takes lots of patience, time management skill and handling of pressure since you’re living on borrowed time. Here and there feeling is real since you don’t feel a sense of belonging until you get pr. You start questioning yourself for the worst case scenarios like what happens next, which gives you lots of anxiety. I am glad you got through it and you can finally call Canada your second home 🏡

My GF and I (well ex now) broke up due to all the points you just mentioned. Keep doing what you're doing. ❤️

I think the key is confidence in yourself and be ever willing to adapt and be in the moment.

luv u girl! pls dont skip ads.

Guuuurrll you don’t know how much this video resonates with how I feel rn 😭

I came to Canada as an international student and it was hard. I got my PR already and still being hard 😬 I think for me the home sick part is always there. Missing my family, country and friend will always be hard. But you create memories here too that make you feel home every day❤️

Totally agree. Specially the fact that you can not share your feelings and how you feel here.

Thank you for sharing your experience.. these are the realities of life..

Thank you. This is a very honest video 🥺

young age as you are, you are now grown up to be a matured person. To talk and face your youtube channel and to talk about what you are feeling right now is not easy. You are really a strong person! a motivator at young age. Your parents will surely be proud of what you are right now... Its not only the PR but the Total Personality you developed that matters to your subscribers.This is life and there are choices, you chose to have it the hard way I am sure the Lord will put things into the right direction just keep on praying....The Lord allows us to have some weaknesses so that WE will cling to someone STRONGER and that is JESUS! Keep the Faith! Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD your God, he it is that does go with you; he will not fail you, nor forsake you.Deut.31:6

thank you for sharing your thoughts :)

This is too timely, I was just searching for this topic a week ago but then here it is 😊 Mentally and emotionally preparing myself for Fall 2022 intake. Hope to see you on streets of Vancouver one day! ❤️

rrdancel, You're incredible. That's all I can say!

Thank you Rachel!

I really think the anxiety starts from when you submit your application. Thanks for this by the way👊

OMG it made me think if I really can do it, people that finish this program are so strong, including you

Thank you for being authentic. :) Godbless you there.

Thanks for sharing this! Hope to meet you soon.

Thank u so much for this. This by far is your most inspiring video. I really need this before reviewing for my midterms week next wk! Salute ms rachel :) Ps: i also took a 1yr pgwp which you said was risky and I am alrdy 29yrs old. But hey, im keeping the faith! And trusting God’s plans.. so.. Cheers!

Thanks for sharing Rachel, international student here for winter 2022 Im anxious (weather and being independent) and excited at the same time.