At York University, international students bring diverse experiences, perspectives and ambitions to campus. We spoke with Dipanpreet Kaur, a second-year English and Professional Writing student, about her journey, campus involvement and advice for other students.
Why did you choose York University?
A published poet and author of two books, Kaur was looking for a university that would enhance her writing skills. “I was very familiar with poetry and not other genres of writing… I thought I could learn more about these and get familiar with different writing styles,” she explained. York’s programs offered the practical learning experiences she sought. Additionally, she received an International Leadership Scholarship, which played a key role in her decision to attend.
How have you gotten involved on campus?
From the start, Kaur knew she wanted to get involved. “My relatives in Canada told me that volunteering is a key aspect employers look for…So I was like, why not? Let's start with on campus volunteering.” She joined York’s Social Work Student Association as a public relations coordinator and later became the vice president of public relations. She’s also taken on student leadership roles, such as marketing director for Peaceby PEACE, where she coordinates fundraising events and manages social media outreach. In addition, Kaur is working to revitalize the International Student Association as its president, focusing on strengthening the club's presence on campus. She also volunteered with the Communications and Media Student Association and the Student Alumni Ambassador team.
How has volunteering contributed to your personal growth?
Volunteering helped Kaur expand her network and develop leadership skills. “Volunteering helped me learn the importance of connections and networking,” she explained, adding that gaining those skills helped her secure a coveted volunteer position as a Student Alumni Ambassador. One of her most memorable experiences was attending an alumni awards event in downtown Toronto, where she got to meet and network with alumni in her field and learn about career opportunities.
What campus resources have helped you succeed?
Kaur highly recommends the Writing Centre, especially for international students adjusting to academic expectations in Canada. “I was a straight-A student back home but obviously, when you come to a different country, the writing styles, the education system, everything is different,” she said. The Writing Centre played a crucial role in her academic transition, helping her refine her work and regain her confidence in her studies.
What has been your experience as an international student in Toronto?
Adjusting to life in Canada was initially overwhelming, but getting involved on campus helped. “At first, I was missing my family a lot, but when I got involved with everything, the volunteering and events, I started to feel at ease and felt more familiar with everything,” she said. She found comfort in Toronto’s diversity and enjoyed attending the Culture Fest at York, a vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures on campus through the exchange of food, fashion, music and tradition. “It's like you're seeing diversity at York University, so you feel at home.”
What advice would you give to new international students?
“Attend events; if you attend events, you will definitely make new friends,” Kaur suggested. “You will get to know more people. You will interact with them. You will learn so many different things.” She especially recommends holiday events. “Students are celebrating even though they are not with their families or friends. They are still celebrating with new friends and making a new family here at York.”
What’s next for you?
While still exploring career options, Kaur knows she wants to work in writing or publishing. For now, she’s taking it one year at a time and focusing on finishing her degree.
Kaur’s story highlights the power of involvement, networking and perseverance. Her advice to incoming students? “It’s okay to feel upset or sad sometimes, but don’t stay stuck in that phase… plan things out slowly and steadily. You get there, and you'll feel more at home.”