International students make impact in Brandon

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This article was published 23/12/2023 (740 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Embarking on an academic expedition across continents, Amanpreet Kaur’s narrative resonates deeply with the diverse experiences of international students at Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College.

Her pride radiates as she reminisces about her journey from India to ACC, where she recently graduated with a degree in office skills.

“I’m proud to have graduated as an international student in ACC from India,” Kaur told the Sun. “It was a whirlwind two years, a ride filled with challenges and eventual triumph.”

Her two-year voyage, which she describes as a “crazy ride,” involved navigating through hurdles and cultural differences, especially in adapting to the nuances of the Canadian educational system. She said it was like shifting gears from a familiar book-based learning approach in India to an entirely technology-driven education system here in Canada.

However, Kaur’s success story isn’t solely about the challenges; it’s a testament to resilience and adaptability. Her tale, shared with pride, highlights the pivotal role of ACC’s support structures in her triumph.

“The college provided invaluable resources — learning libraries, computers, and extra classes — that were open to all students. These were instrumental in honing our skills and overcoming our weaknesses,” she said. “Today, I am proud and successful, thanks to this unwavering support.”

Vina Okeh, an international student from Nigeria, pursued horticultural production at ACC. Reflecting on her experience, she said the academic system in Nigeria differs significantly from Canada. Initially, it was manageable, but later, the workload increased suddenly, posing challenges with numerous assignments and tight deadlines.”

Okeh highlighted the struggle of managing assignments with shifting deadlines.

“Assignments were given with varying due dates, making it challenging to manage. Determination was key. While some friends aimed for passing marks, I strived for excellence.”

Looking ahead, Okeh expressed her plans for employment and further education. “I secured a full-time job with a greenhouse called Neo Nutes Market. ACC supported funding for this initiative. I plan to continue my education, aiming for a master’s degree.”

Emelio Brown’s story adds a new dimension, as he shares insights gained from his transition from the University of Technology in Jamaica to BU in 2017.

“The education I received from both institutions was on par,” Brown said. “However, the pull factor for me to study at BU was the broader opportunities that came after obtaining a degree in Canada.”

Reflecting on his graduation from BU, Brown expresses his pride in becoming a BU graduate, adding that the intimate learning environment at BU fostered close relationships with instructors. In Brandon, and at the university, he observed a tight-knit community. “This environment provided a level of care, connection, and support crucial for excelling in studies,” he said.

Brown, who is IntriTech Digital Marketing’s chief executive officer, draws a direct link between his BU education and his current endeavours as an entrepreneur in the field of marketing, particularly specializing in website development and design.

“The foundational knowledge I gained at BU, especially in coding and website development, plays a significant role in my work today,” he said, crediting BU for providing the fundamental knowledge that he has applied in his entrepreneurial journey.

Kaur, Okey and Brown’s story is just a glimpse into the diverse mosaic of experiences that international students encounter at ACC and BU. Their journeys encompass not only academic challenges but also cultural adaptations, financial constraints, and dreams of success.

Both ACC and BU acknowledge the presence of international students, and the variety of diverse cultures, significantly influence the academic landscape and the local community, enriching the fabric of these Brandon institutions.

ACC vice-president of enrolment Danielle Adriaansen told the Sun that international students contribute significantly to the college’s academic environment and diversity, noting they bring diverse perspectives and cultural understandings, and enrich the learning experience for all students.

“Our recent audited financial report (2021-22) indicates that revenue from Assiniboine International accounted for approximately $4.1 million of the total $52.6 million, representing eight per cent of the college’s revenue,” she said. “In the 2022-23 academic year, we witnessed 475 international graduates out of a total of 1,648 graduates, representing roughly 29 per cent of graduates in that period.”

She said the college is committed to welcoming global learners and integrating their perspectives into the curriculum. The college’s Strategic Direction, she said, fosters global citizenship and supports learners from over 35 countries across its 40 diverse programs.

To accommodate the increasing number of international students, she said, the Assiniboine International Department offers extensive support services, including pre-arrival information, settlement support, academic advising, mental health resources, and community integration programs.

BU marketing and communications director Grant Hamilton said the institution takes pride in being a destination for international students, noting a rise in international student enrolment.

“This year, we have 527 international students out of a total student population of 3,236 — so international students are about 16 per cent of the student body,” he said. “That’s grown. The five years before this we averaged about 430 international students each year.”

On the financial contribution, he said, the bulk of BU’s revenues come from the province in the form of a direct grant, adding tuition from all sources makes up just under 25 per cent of the school’s revenues.

“Of those tuition fees, international students contribute about 25 per cent,” he said. “So, of the entire BU consolidated revenues, international tuition represents about six per cent.”

Hamilton said international students significantly contribute to campus life, noting the diverse perspectives enriching classroom discussions and the broader global context added to lessons.

Beyond academics, Hamilton said BU is committed to supporting international students on challenges they face — distance from home, adapting to a new culture, and housing challenges.

“We are in the midst of a multimillion-dollar renovation to our McMaster Hall residence that will fully renovate half the building (the other half has already been renovated),” he said. “It will provide even better options, with new furniture and more private spaces, for students.”

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