This article is based on the experiences of an international student from Saudi Arabia, Lama Ba Saad. I chose to share her story because I discovered many interesting and unique things about her country, and learnt from her how she overcame her challenges in Canada.

Lama Ba Saad is a student at Fanshawe College. She dreams to be a nurse in future and loves drawing.

What motivated your decision to pursue a degree abroad? How/why did you choose where to go?
Since my brother is in Canada completing his studies, I decided to go and complete my undergraduate studies, as well as fulfill my dream of becoming a nurse. This is due to Canada's outstanding reputation in the field of medicine, and the opportunity to learn a new culture.

What has your experience been like? Can you share some favorite memories - and challenges?
Everyone has different experiences, but mine was perfect. I got to make friends from all over the world, in addition to learning a new language. However, I saw a new culture different from my country, and I learned from that respect for others, and that everyone has a culture, but we remain human. As for a new experience for me, it was seeing snow and ice skating, due we don't have snow in my city.

What skills have you developed from your international education experience?
The most developed skill that I have gained is communication skill, because I was trying to communicate with everything that was going on around me to develop their culture and understanding, and also the skill of independence and self-reliance, because in the past, I was completely dependent on my parents, but now because of life here without them, I started to be self-reliant. I am facing problems and solving them and working.

How has international education impacted or impacted your cultural identity?
International education has not changed my cultural identity, because Canada respects all other cultures, and it is a mosaic that includes and respects all the cultures of the world.

What are some highlights or things that you gained or changed your perspective? 
As a piece of advice, for those who wish to complete their studies abroad, to make sure of themselves, whether are they able to bear the difficulties that they will face during their lives, and whether can they rely on themselves without the help of others. Finally, are they able coexist with other cultures? If the answer is yes, then this will greatly facilitate their choice of decision.

Sheraz Abo Alkhair is an electrical engineer from Syria, currently studying General Arts and Science at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario.