Nishtha M.

The BIGGEST MISTAKE international students make……. Not making friends from other cultures and backgrounds. When we, immigrants, first come to Canada, I know it’s scary, it’s tough, and you feel homesick. This results in finding people from our background and spending time with them. This is completely fine. But not going out of your comfort zone to meet people from other countries and cultures is the BIGGEST mistake. Canada is such a beautiful country with people all over the world. But a lot of immigrants are scared to step out of their comfort zone and make a friend outside of their background. The more you surround yourself with people different from you, the more you grow and develop yourself. How do you improve your English speaking skills? Not by hanging out with people from your own background because they are struggling as well. You do it by spending time with Native English speakers. That’s how you grow. Are you scared to step out of your comfort zone? Take a small step and talk to one person. Message one person on LinkedIn and book a coffee chat. Want to master the art of job seeking? Follow me on LinkedIn to stay updated or DM me if you have any questions! 🔔 #growth #internationalstudents #opportunities

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The number 1 thing international students get wrong when they come to Canada… Skipping survival jobs! When I first came to Canada, I had no work experience, no communication skills, and filled with self-doubt. I had no idea about Canadian culture, how to work in teams, and how to communicate effectively. But I wanted to find a professional job as soon as I landed in Canada. In order to land my first professional job, I knew I had to learn how to communicate, how to work in teams, and get familiar with the Canadian culture. To do that, I started my first work experience working as a host and a server at a few restaurants. This is where I learned the most valuable skill sets that I still use! As an international student, you need to understand the value of doing survival jobs for a few months to improve your skill sets! But remember -  you CAN’T stay in those survival jobs for a long time and need to learn how to move up the ladder. Start small, be patient, keep growing, and eventually, you will find the way! Want to master the art of job seeking? Follow me on LinkedIn to stay updated or send me a DM if you have any questions! 🔔 #survivaljobs #immigrants #students

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No immigrant in Canada (or anywhere else) has Zero Experience". . . . . Dear Hiring Manager, International students/immigrants do not have zero Canadian experience. Instead, you simply have ZERO understanding of the several life experiences immigrants possess. Here is a list of skill sets we possess that you’re unaware of ✅Adaptability: Adapting to extreme cold weather conditions and different cultures as fast as possible. ✅Emotional Intelligence: Dealing with the depression that comes with staying away from family while studying or working and always being the best at what we do is a skill we possess. ✅Humility: Most international students end up taking on menial jobs they would never have done back home. They do this just to make ends meet. Examples of these jobs include cleaning, warehouse, cashier jobs, etc. ✅Great Communication: North Americans speak and communicate a certain way and as immigrants, we have to learn that style as fast as possible to integrate easily into our immediate environment. ✅Team Player: As international students, we often tend to work with other international students from different countries with unique backgrounds and communication styles which makes us great team players in the process. ✅Open-mindedness': We chose to come to Canada to study (education), but do the following, learn the culture, learn how to communicate, learn how to provide value, learn how to adapt to different environments, and so on. ✅Resilience: Imagine working, schooling, and missing family all at the same time. Most Hiring Managers have never experienced this so they have no idea what it means. Only the brave would understand. International students would do whatever it takes to make ends meet, NO EXCUSES. All we need is a chance to prove ourselves. ♻️ Repost if you agree. Follow Uchenna Opara for more

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Studying in Canada offers numerous benefits, especially considering its high quality of life. Here are some key points highlighting why Canada is an excellent choice for international students: 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞: Canada consistently ranks high for its quality of life, with access to 🏥 healthcare, 🛡️ safety, and a vibrant culture. Cities like 🌆 Vancouver, 🏙️ Toronto, and 🎨 Montreal are known for their welcoming communities. 🚀 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 : Canada encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. The government supports startups through various funding programs and incubators, making it an ideal environment for aspiring entrepreneurs. 💼 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 : Canada has a reputation for being open to international talent and investment. The country’s policies foster a diverse business environment, attracting global companies and creating job opportunities. 🔄 𝐀𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲: Canadian institutions are known for their flexibility in education, allowing students to pursue various paths and tailor their experiences according to their career goals. ❤️ 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞: Canada places a strong emphasis on social responsibility and community engagement. Many educational programs incorporate social impact and sustainability, aligning with students values and aspirations. Overall, studying in Canada not only provides quality education but also immerses students in a supportive and dynamic environment that encourages personal and professional growth. For more information, please contact us at 9154252509📞✨ #QualityOfLife #CanadaLiving #Entrepreneurship #StartupCanada #OpenForBusiness #GlobalTalent #FlexibleEducation #CareerGrowth #SocialImpact #Sustainability #StudyInCanada #InternationalStudents #EducationAbroad #i20feverwarangal #i20feverkarimnagar #i20feverkhammam#

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I recently had the opportunity to attend an engaging LinkedIn Expert Session with Aditya Dhupar at York University School of Continuing Studies🎓, and it was truly enlightening! Aditya, a specialist in LinkedIn SEO, personal branding, and networking, shared invaluable insights on leveraging LinkedIn effectively. Here are my key takeaways: 1️⃣LinkedIn SEO is Essential: Aditya highlighted the crucial role of optimizing your profile with relevant keywords, particularly in your headline, to enhance visibility among recruiters and potential connections. 2️⃣Networking is About Value: It's not merely about increasing your number of connections; it's about providing value to your network. Genuine interactions are vital for building meaningful relationships. 3️⃣Your Personal Brand is Your Digital Identity: Consistent posting and sharing relevant content help establish a recognizable personal brand over time. Don't underestimate the impact of your LinkedIn presence! I'm excited to implement these strategies to enhance my LinkedIn profile and foster deeper connections! If anyone else is looking to optimize their LinkedIn experience, let’s connect and grow together! 🌱 #LinkedInTips #PersonalBranding #Networking #CareerGrowth #YorkUniversity #SEO

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🇨🇦🚨 Attention!! For International Students Canada- IRCC will not renew temporary off-campus work hours measure- 24 hours per week🚨🇨🇦 Minister Marc Miller has confirmed today that temporary measures regarding off-campus work hours for international students will not be renewed, and it will be 24 hours per week while class is in session. Since last October 2022, IRCC began temporarily allowing international students with an off-campus work authorization on their study permits to work more than 20 hours per week while class is in session, as temporary extension. Instead, starting in the fall academic semester this year, international students in Canada will be permitted to work up to 24 hours per week while class is in session. For further details, please visit the official site. #StudyInCanada #InternationalEducation #StudentLife #WorkOpportunities #HigherEducation #StudyingAbroad #CareerDevelopment #StudentCommunity #EducationNews #StudyPermitUpdates #Canada #InternationalStudents #IRCC #StudyPermits #Work #FallSemester

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🌍 A Journey of Growth: 2 Years as an International Student in Canada. Two years ago, I packed my bags and left the familiar streets of India, trading them for the vibrant cities of Canada. What began as a leap of faith soon turned into a journey of learning, adaptation, and transformation. 🌱 As an international student, the path hasn’t always been easy. From late-night study sessions to navigating new cultural norms, there were moments where the challenges seemed overwhelming. But every step—whether it was mastering a marketing concept or making connections in a new environment—has shaped me into someone who is not just surviving but thriving. 📈 Marketing has been my focus, and this diverse experience has given me a deeper understanding of the field. I’ve learned to see the world through a global lens, exploring how digital trends, consumer behavior, and storytelling come together to create impactful campaigns. The lessons I’ve learned inside and outside the classroom have made me adaptable, creative, and eager to keep growing. What’s been equally rewarding is the opportunity to build relationships. Whether it's classmates, professors, or industry professionals, I’ve discovered that strong connections are the backbone of success here. Each conversation, each shared experience, has helped me grow both personally and professionally. And while this journey has come with its fair share of challenges, I’m still here, still learning, still building. 💼 As I continue to develop my skills in marketing, I’m excited to find new opportunities that allow me to contribute, collaborate, and make an impact. #Openforopportunities #Newgrad #InternationalStudent #GlobalExperience #Networking #Contentcreation #Socialmediamarketing #Brandbuilding

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Creating Impact: My Experience as a Marketing Intern in Downtown Toronto 🏙️ As a marketing intern at an interior design firm in downtown Toronto, every day is an exciting blend of creativity and strategy. Here’s a peek into my daily routine, focusing on managing our email marketing campaigns using HubSpot CRM Morning: Setting the Stage ☕️ I kick off my day by diving into our HubSpot dashboard. Today, I’m preparing for our upcoming email campaign targeting potential clients who have shown interest in our latest design projects.A/B Testing: This morning, I set up an A/B test for our subject lines. One will read, “Transform Your Space with Our Latest Designs!” while the other says, “Discover the Art of Interior Design.” This will help us determine which resonates better with our audience. Mid-Morning: Crafting the Message Next, I switch gears to writing copy for the email. My goal is to create engaging content that not only informs but also inspires action. Once the copy is polished, I move on to designing graphics that align with our brand’s aesthetic. I use tools like Canva to create visually appealing images that showcase our recent projects. Afternoon: Final Touches After lunch, it’s time to finalize the email. I integrate the graphics into HubSpot and ensure the layout is clean and professional. The drag-and-drop editor makes this process seamless!Personalization: I personalize the emails by including the recipient's name and tailoring content based on their previous interactions with us. This helps foster a connection and increases engagement rates. Late Afternoon: Scheduling and Analyzing As the day winds down, I schedule the email to go out tomorrow morning. I also take a moment to analyze previous campaigns’ performance metrics—open rates, click-through rates, and overall engagement—to see what worked and what didn’t.This role is not just about sending emails; it’s about creating meaningful connections through design and storytelling. Each campaign is a chance to showcase our passion for interior design while learning more about our audience's preferences. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow, making my internship an invaluable experience in the world of marketing! 🌟

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Fellow international students, Put your hand up if anyone has ever thought that you are just here for your PR Put your hand up if someone has believed that you will be working a labour job even after graduation Put your hand up if someone has said to you “this is great but we are looking for Canadian experiences” Put your hand up if someone has used “ you are overqualified as an excuse to not hire you” Put your hand up if you yourself have believed what others tell you And lastly put your hand up, if you find yourself not getting opportunities you want I mention these because these experiences and our self-rejection is a contributor into you not being able to give your 100% or give your best I recently spoke to international students who mentioned trying their best but after they spoke to me they realized they had not even scratched the surface in terms of optimizing where you are today and who you have access to Most times we already have the people in our network that we want to connect with and we already have even access to opportunities we need, all we got to do is be able to see and connect the dots and then strategically bring that connection to life You will always find people who have a lot to say but when you start listening to others and start letting them affect you, know that you are living their life and not yours . . Follow Ritika Saraswat for more such content #students #mindset #motivation

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Fellow international students, Put your hand up if anyone has ever thought that you are just here for your PR Put your hand up if someone has believed that you will be working a labour job even after graduation Put your hand up if someone has said to you “this is great but we are looking for Canadian experiences” Put your hand up if someone has used “ you are overqualified as an excuse to not hire you” Put your hand up if you yourself have believed what others tell you And lastly put your hand up, if you find yourself not getting opportunities you want I mention these because these experiences and our self-rejection is a contributor into you not being able to give your 100% or give your best I recently spoke to international students who mentioned trying their best but after they spoke to me they realized they had not even scratched the surface in terms of optimizing where you are today and who you have access to Most times we already have the people in our network that we want to connect with and we already have even access to opportunities we need, all we got to do is be able to see and connect the dots and then strategically bring that connection to life You will always find people who have a lot to say but when you start listening to others and start letting them affect you, know that you are living their life and not yours . . Therefore, start by surrounding yourself with the right people and you can do so at our upcoming event called Newcomers Collision on Sept 21st Sign up using link: https://lnkd.in/dyhxiAZ2 Follow Ritika Saraswat for more such content #students #mindset #motivation

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Fellow international students, Put your hand up if anyone has ever thought that you are just here for your PR Put your hand up if someone has believed that you will be working a labour job even after graduation Put your hand up if someone has said to you “this is great but we are looking for Canadian experiences” Put your hand up if someone has used “ you are overqualified as an excuse to not hire you” Put your hand up if you yourself have believed what others tell you And lastly put your hand up, if you find yourself not getting opportunities you want I mention these because these experiences and our self-rejection is a contributor into you not being able to give your 100% or give your best I recently spoke to international students who mentioned trying their best but after they spoke to me they realized they had not even scratched the surface in terms of optimizing where you are today and who you have access to Most times we already have the people in our network that we want to connect with and we already have even access to opportunities we need, all we got to do is be able to see and connect the dots and then strategically bring that connection to life You will always find people who have a lot to say but when you start listening to others and start letting them affect you, know that you are living their life and not yours Are you ready to take CONTROL and lead a life true to you, your goals, aspirations and motivations? . . . Follow Ritika Saraswat for more such content and join our community at Re-Defined using link in comments #students #mindset #motivation

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**From Resumes to Referrals: Addressing the Systemic Challenges Faced by New Immigrants in Canada** Navigating the Canadian job market as a new immigrant can be challenging. Despite my best efforts - tailoring my resume, upskilling through certifications, expanding my LinkedIn network, attending career fairs, and seeking guidance from career counselors—I have noticed a concerning trend, many companies prioritize internal hiring or referrals, leaving limited opportunities for external candidates. This approach overlooks a vast pool of talented individuals who may not tick every box on a job description or have an extensive network. Evaluating candidates solely based on a two-page resume is insufficient. Candidates whose experience aligns with the job description by at least 70-80% should be given the opportunity to showcase their skills through a screening call or interview. Despite submitting 15-20 job applications daily with customized resumes and cover letters, I have received minimal responses, except for a few calls from recruiting agencies. This raises concerns about the authenticity of job postings and whether they are simply used to backfill internal candidates or promote existing employees. It seems there is a significant gap between what job seekers are presented with and the actual hiring process. I question whether employers are genuinely seeking external talent or just going through the motions. A more thorough and inclusive assessment process could help uncover hidden gems and ensure a diverse and merit-based hiring process. I am not alone in this struggle, and I hope my voice resonates with others facing similar challenges. Together, let’s advocate for a fairer and more inclusive job market. #NewImmigrant #JobSearch #InclusiveHiring #CareerGrowth #CanadianJobMarket #DiversityAndInclusion P.S - My perspective on this matter is shaped by my personal experiences over the past few months. However, I remain open-minded and willing to consider alternative viewpoints, and eager to learn from others' insights

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🚧 Beware of Common Scams Targeting International Students in Canada! 🚧 After hearing lately of so many students being victims of scams and fraud, I decided to write about the most common scams and misleading practices you need to be aware of: 1. Fake Agencies 💸 What They Do: These agencies promote schools they don't have partnerships with. They take your money and often disappear after scamming a few leads. Some even provide fake paperwork to make it seem like they're legitimate. 🔍 How to Avoid: Always verify agency credentials and cross-check with the official websites of the schools they claim to represent. 2. Fake Job Offers 💼 What They Do: Similar to fake agencies, these scammers promise job placements in Canada, taking your money in return for non-existent job offers. 🔍 How to Avoid: Research thoroughly. Legitimate job offers will never require large upfront payments. Use trusted job portals and company websites. 3. Work Permit or PR for Sale 🛂 What They Do: Scammers promise work permits or permanent residency status in exchange for large sums of money. Examples include: "Give me $10K and I'll marry you for the PR" or "Give me $10K and I'll sponsor you for a work permit." 🔍 How to Avoid: Immigration processes have official channels. Never trust anyone asking for money in exchange for immigration documents. Check the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website for accurate information. 4. Misleading Agencies 📚 What They Do: While not technically a scam, these agencies are biased and recommend schools or programs based on the commissions they receive rather than what’s best for the student. 🔍 Stay Informed and Vigilant! 🛡️ Your education and future are invaluable. Don't let scammers take advantage of your dreams. Always verify information through official channels and trusted sources. Share Your Experiences 📢 Have you or someone you know encountered any of these scams? Let’s discuss and spread awareness to protect others. (yes, I used ChatGPT to curate my thoughts and come up with a cleaner easier to understand post) #InternationalStudents #Immigration #Education #Canada #ScamAlert #FraudPrevention

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Happy to share a significant research project! 🏡 As a Research Analyst student at Georgian College, I recently completed a group project for our Qualitative Research course, focusing on "Housing Challenges for International Students in Ontario." This project was a collaborative effort with two talented teammates, and together, we aimed to shed light on the unique housing experiences of international students. 🔍 Project Objectives: 1. Explore international students' expectations around accommodations and housing. 2. Describe their experiences when looking for housing upon arriving in Canada. 3. Identify whether their expectations were met. 4. Create profiles of students based on prominent commonalities (demographics, expectations, experiences, etc.). 5. Identify strategies that the college can use to support international students in finding appropriate housing. 📋 Project Highlights: - Interviews: Conducted in-depth interviews with international students to gather qualitative data. - NVivo Analysis: Utilized NVivo to analyze interview responses and extract key insights. - Presentation: Compiled our findings into a detailed report and presented our research to the class via a PowerPoint presentation. 📚 Key Learnings: - Qualitative Research Techniques: Gained hands-on experience in designing and conducting qualitative research, including interview techniques and data analysis using NVivo. - Student Housing Insights: Developed a deep understanding of the housing challenges and expectations of international students in Ontario. - Profile Creation: Learned how to create detailed profiles based on commonalities to better understand diverse student needs. - Strategic Recommendations: Identified actionable strategies for colleges to support international students in their housing search. - Collaboration: Enhanced teamwork and collaboration skills through working closely with my project partners. This project was a valuable experience, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by international students. I'm excited to continue applying these insights to support student success and well-being. #QualitativeResearch #InternationalStudents #HousingChallenges #DataAnalysis #Teamwork #GeorgianCollege #research #interview #survey

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Canada announced a change to its International Student Program visa applications last Friday by closing the Student Direct Stream (SDS), a program introduced in 2018. Since the announcement, many media outlets have portrayed this as a negative development. While Canada has undergone numerous policy shifts this year, and the rationale behind some changes may not always be clear, I believe this is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of creating a fair and inclusive system accessible to all students. The SDS program was known for its faster processing times but also presented challenges and barriers for many students. Moving towards a more equitable approach could open doors for a broader range of applicants, fostering greater diversity and inclusivity in Canada’s international education landscape. This change, though initially perceived as a setback, could pave the way for a more balanced and accessible system that benefits students worldwide.

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Finding a job abroad, particularly in countries like Canada, can be challenging for students, even after graduating from reputable institutions. Several factors contribute to this: 1. Lack of Local Experience: Employers often prioritize candidates with local work experience, which international students may lack. They may also be unfamiliar with the nuances of the Canadian job market or workplace culture. 2. Visa and Work Permit Constraints: Navigating the complexities of visa and work permit regulations can be daunting. Some employers may hesitate to hire international graduates due to concerns about the paperwork involved. Most employers will tell you "currently we don't have jobs for students" except for WP and PR holders. 3. Networking Gaps: Building a professional network is crucial, but it can be difficult for international students who may not have established connections in the local job market. This can limit access to job opportunities that are often filled through referrals. 4. Skill Recognition: Despite having the necessary qualifications, international students may face challenges in getting their credentials and skills recognized, especially if they come from different educational systems. In Canada most of your foreign certificates doesn't count. What Can Students Do? 1. Gain Local Experience Early: Engage in internships, co-op programs, or volunteer opportunities while studying. These not only build local experience but also expand your network. 2. Leverage University Resources: Utilize career services offered by your institution. These often include resume reviews, interview preparation, and networking events that can connect you with potential employers. 3. Understand Visa Options: Familiarize yourself with post-graduation work permit options and immigration pathways early on. This will help you plan your job search accordingly and ensure you're eligible to work after graduation. 4. Build a Network: Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with alumni who can offer advice and referrals. Networking is often key to finding unadvertised job opportunities. 5. Tailor Your Job Search: Customize your resume and cover letter to reflect local standards and highlight how your international perspective can add value to a potential employer. By understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps, international students can improve their chances of landing a job in Canada or other countries abroad.

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Exciting news for international students in Canada! The Canadian government has announced new changes to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, effective November 1, 2024. Here are the key highlights: 100% online studies now eligible for PGWP No requirement for a valid study permit during online studies Distance learning between March 2020 and August 2022 now eligible Authorized leaves and transfers between institutions now considered These changes aim to make the PGWP program more flexible and accessible for international students. For more details refer this link- https://lnkd.in/g8A85GpT #PGWP #Canada #InternationalStudents #CareerGoals #ImmigrationReforms

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