Life at YorkU From An International Perspective

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York University is home to many students from all over the globe. This week I am bringing to you interviews with two remarkable international students at York University. I have had an opportunity to work with Jiayi and Mohammed on several different occasions throughout the year participating in different events across the campus. Check out their interviews below.

Interviewee: Mohammed Sharuk Rowther

Year of study: Second year

Program of study: Earth & Atmospheric Science

Home country and city: Tamilnadu, India

S: What do you enjoy the most about Keele campus? Have you taken any classes at the Glendon campus?

M: The wide eco-friendly campus which includes tons of academic as well as co-curricular resources. I also enjoy York Lanes (mall on campus) which serves food from around the world. And I haven’t taken any classes at Glendon, however I’m planning to.

S: Did you live on campus during your first year? What are your current living arrangements? (Homestay, renting, etc.?)

M: Yes, I lived on campus in my first year. And, I moved to York Village (which is a private housing area, five minutes away from Keele campus) in the summer. But, now I’m back in residence.

S: Would you recommend the residence accommodation to other students?

M: Yes, I will strongly recommend the on-campus residence for students. I really enjoy the convenience and the safety that it offers.

S: What are some of your favourite activities to do in the city and close to campus?

M: The Ontario Science Centre is one of my beloved places in the city that not only offers workshops which supports my program but also a fun place to hang out with science enthusiasts. Down-town is always awesome and considerably closer.

S: What advice would you give to other international students considering studying at York U?

M: York University is clearly is a great place to gain international exposure with an opportunity to meet people from around the world. York International is always on campus to support international students. Upon graduation you will not only have a degree but also a great vision to lead a life abroad.

S: What career do you hope to pursue upon graduation?

M: I’m passionate about space. As a student from India I’m thinking of working at a space station back home with a Canadian degree.

Interviewee: Jiayi Hou

Year of study: First year

Program of study: Finance

Home country and city: Shanghai, China

S: What do you enjoy the most about Keele campus? Have you taken any classes at the Glendon campus?

J: I love the campus as it is very spacious and beautiful. It offers great facilities and equipment. And, there are many activities and events held throughout the year. No, unfortunately I have not had a chance to attend any classes at Glendon Yet.

S: Did you live on campus during your first year? What are your current living arrangements? (Home-stay, renting, etc.?)

J: Yes, I lived on campus during my first year and I am still living in the Vanier Residence.

S: Would you recommend the residence accommodation to other students?

J: Yes, because it is really convenient and you can make a lot of friends and there are a lot of residence activities. But, I would like to see more restaurants opening up.

S: What are some of your favourite activities to do in the city and close to campus?

J: Some activities that I really enjoy are shopping, ice skating, snow tubing, and eating.

S: What advice would you give to other international students considering studying at York U?

J: Be active and be involved in the new environment.

S: What career do you hope to pursue upon graduation?

J: Financial analyst.

Hope you enjoyed the interviews! Are you thinking of joining us at York U from abroad? Feel free to leave comments and questions below about your transition.

Be sure to mark your calendars and visit us on Saturday, April 5th 2014, for our annual Spring Open House!