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A student’s point of view: SSW International Student in Canada
This year marks significant milestones for me as an international student in Canada. My name is Gem, and I am an intern at Home Suite Hope (HSH) while pursuing the Social Services Worker Program at Sheridan College. Being an international student has been both challenging and fulfilling, and my journey so far has been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences.
Arriving in Canada during the winter was a stark contrast to the tropical climate of my home country, the Philippines. Adjusting to the cold weather, navigating a new environment, and integrating into a diverse society brought a mix of excitement and anxiety. From learning to communicate effectively in English to understanding a new community and societal system, and adapting to an unfamiliar academic setup, every step has tested and shaped me.
Learning and Challenges
Coming to Canada was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. Like many other international students, I arrived with a degree from my home country—a bachelor’s in social work from the Philippines. One of the most exciting aspects of this journey has been the opportunity to blend my previous academic knowledge and professional experience with new learnings, fostering both personal and professional growth.
While classroom learning has been invaluable, my field placement has been a pivotal aspect of my education. It allows me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing my skills in navigating resources, functioning effectively in the Canadian context, and building professional networks. Working with diverse populations through my placement at HSH has broadened my understanding of community work and helped me develop the practical skills necessary to succeed in my field.
Success as an international student comes with hurdles. Adapting to a new environment, managing homesickness, and meeting financial responsibilities have been particularly demanding. Despite my aunt’s sponsorship for my studies, I must cover my personal expenses. High rent, costly groceries, and tuition fees—three times higher for international students compared to domestic students—pose significant challenges.
During my first three months in Canada, I struggled to find a job. Eventually, I secured part-time work, but irregular hours made it difficult to balance finances. Many international students face exploitation, accepting undocumented, underpaid, and insecure jobs out of desperation. This highlights the importance of support from relatives, peers, and school faculty in helping us navigate these difficulties.
Professional Growth at Home Suite Hope
My internship at HSH has been instrumental in bridging my previous community development experience with individual case management skills. In the Philippines, I worked with government initiatives to provide sustainable and affordable social housing for impoverished communities. At HSH, I aim to integrate this knowledge into my work with diverse populations, enhancing my professional capacity upon graduating with my Social Service Worker diploma.
Over the past eight months, I’ve observed alarming societal trends. Many individuals in the labor force, despite having average incomes and single jobs, are at risk of homelessness due to inflation and high living costs. These challenges are even more pronounced for single parents with dependents. While numerous organizations provide support, many still struggle to meet societal demands. These issues resonate with the challenges faced by international students, underscoring the need for systemic changes.
Future Aspirations
My ultimate goal is to become a competent professional equipped to support marginalized populations through advocacy, resource navigation, and addressing social injustices. By merging my knowledge and experience from the Philippines with my Canadian education, I hope to make meaningful contributions to the communities I serve.
Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful to be part of HSH. This experience has provided me with firsthand exposure to working with individuals experiencing homelessness and the opportunity to contribute to an organization that empowers single-parent families through housing, education, and holistic support. I look forward to continued learning, collaboration, and growth as I work toward building stronger, more inclusive communities.