Shamima Raihan Manzoor is a Digital and Content Marketing student at the York School of Continuing Studies with a passion for marketing and a drive to bridge academia and industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit flourished during the pandemic when she explored digital marketing through her Facebook business page, sparking her enthusiasm for the field. With a PhD in Higher Education Marketing, she blends academic expertise with hands-on experience to create insightful and engaging content that empowers others on their marketing journey!
If there are times where you feel a bit overwhelmed as an international student at York University, you’re not alone. Starting life in a new country can be both exciting and challenging, but York has got your back with resources to help you settle in, make friends and thrive. Let’s dive into some tips and tools to turn homesickness into happiness!
Navigate homesickness with professional wellness support
Did you know that Student Counselling, Health & Well-being (SCHW) offers many resources to help you adjust to university life as an international student? Whether it’s one-on-one counselling or group support, their team is here to help you grow and thrive.
SCHW’s Support groups provide a safe space to share your experiences as international students and learn from others. They are perfect for making new friends and learning stress-management strategies.
Pro tip: Download the My SSP App! This 24/7 support service is a lifeline for international students. You can chat in your preferred language and get advice on stress, finances or healthy habits. Good2Talk is also a free, 24/7 mental health helpline for Ontario university students. Save their number on your phone— you never know when you might need it!
Use peer support for mental well-being
Moving to a new country is easier when you’ve got friends to lean on. That’s where the International Student Peer Program (ISPP) comes in. Even before you land in Canada, ISPP connects you with experienced student mentors who share tips about life at York and in Toronto. ISPP fosters connection, support and resource access. It helps international students build friendships, navigate academics and cultural adjustments and connects you with York services.
Pro tip: Ask your peer mentor for recommendations on where to find your favourite hometown foods— they often know the best local spots! My mentor suggested grocery stores where I could find familiar foods and even the best spots to unwind.
Find your community for mental happiness
York boasts 350+ clubs and organizations that cater to every interest imaginable. From cultural associations to sports teams, you’re sure to find a group for you! Check out YU Connect to learn more.
Pro tip: Bookmark York’s Event Calendar and aim to attend workshops and social gatherings. These are great opportunities to meet others and get truly engaged!
Get active and relieve stress
A healthy body means a happy mind! York offers gyms and fitness centers for all students. A workout or cheering on the York’s Lions at a varsity game can give you that much-needed energy boost!
Pro tip: Attending York Lions varsity games is free for university students!
Live on or around campus for a smoother transition
Living on campus makes it easier to meet new people and get involved in the community. The Residence Life Team hosts regular events to help international students feel welcome.
Prefer off-campus living? York’s Off-Campus Housing website can guide you to great spots around Toronto.
Pro tip: If you’re living in residence, join events like movie nights or cultural potlucks – even if you’re shy! These gatherings are low-pressure ways to make new connections.
What's worked for me
As an international student at York’s School of Continuing Studies, I found the community warm and inclusive, with the ISPP playing a crucial role in helping me mentally settle in. Resources like ISPP and SCHW’s support groups provided valuable guidance, while living on campus enhanced my academic progress, mental well-being and social connections. My peer mentor helped me discover the best places in York and Toronto for familiar food and living on campus allowed me to meet some of my closest friends, making my transition truly smooth and fulfilling!
Pro tip: Don’t hesitate to explore the city. Finding your favourite spots can make you feel more at home. York International also hosts neighbourhood explorations to check out landmarks like the Toronto Islands or Kensington Market during weekends.
Ready to thrive at York?
Starting life at York is a big step, but with these tips, you’ll transition from feeling homesick to thriving in no time. Your journey as an international student will be filled with growth and new opportunities. Embrace the supportive community, dive into the resources available, and make the most out of your time here. York isn’t just a university— it’s a place to call your new home.