Leo, centre wearing a lanyard with a thumbs up, stands with his instructors and a classmate at the end of year celebration for iEFAS.
Written by Oindrilla Ghosh, Library and Communications Assistant
Studying abroad can be very daunting for some, but not for Renison resident Leo. Leo’s story at Renison started when he enrolled in the Joint Academic Program. He began during the pandemic and started his journey at Renison through virtual classes. The Joint Academic Program allows students to complete their studies in two different countries, combining the best of both educational systems. To hear more about his story, we sat down with Leo and discussed his experiences at Renison!
Leo decided to study at the University of Waterloo for the remaining two years of his undergraduate degree. Upon arriving to Waterloo, Leo enrolled in the Intensive English for academic success (iEFAS) program at Renison. iEFAS is offered to international students to help them meet the English language requirements set by the University of Waterloo. Whilst studying in the iEFAS program, Leo also applied for residence at Renison and decided that it would be convenient for him to attend classes while living on campus.
Leo lived in Renison for two years and his love for the Renison community is obvious. Leo says that after a hard day of grueling classes and work, when he returns to Renison he can escape from the stress that comes with being an undergraduate student: “Renison is separate from the tough study life at the University.” Watching other students enjoy the activities hosted at Renison reminds him also to take a well-deserved break and enjoy life. When asked what he enjoys the most about Renison, Leo enthused about his love for karaoke events, he especially enjoys singing the song “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay because the message of the song really resonates with him. “Just like the song says, everybody has peak times and low points, that’s life”, says Leo.
When thinking back to his first few months at Renison while he was enrolled in the iEFAS program, Leo says that the experience was invaluable. He made lifelong friends and memories in Canada, and it has helped him to push out of his comfort zone. What’s his advice to future iEFAS and international students? “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and talk to as many people as possible, they will be your first social circle here.”
The English Language institute (ELI) at Renison runs the iEFAS program, which is designed to help international students transition to university in Canada. As part of its programming, the ELI organizes many excursions and trips for their students. Leo’s fondest memory at Renison is from a trip organized by the ELI, where he went to Canada’s Wonderland. Coincidentally the trip was on his birthday, and he had a wonderful time celebrating his 20th birthday and enjoying life in Canada.
Besides the wonderful memories, Leo was able to advance his English grammar skills, thanks to the iEFAS program and apply them in other facets of his academic career. The iEFAS program also gave him an opportunity to meet in person the Renison professors he had online classes with during the Joint Academic Program program. When asked what advice he would give to potential international students, Leo encouraged them to remember their goals and have a clear plan in mind – “Be strong in your heart and know what you need to do.”
Leo is currently on track to continue his studies with a master’s degree, and intends to continue his studies and pursue a PhD. We wish him all the best in achieving his future goals!
This is part of the 2024 Renison Reports publication. Return to the Renison Reports page for other articles.