Imminent study destination

AS opposed to the more traditional study destinations, Canada is a relatively new destination. However with its growing reputation, there is an increase in interest in the country and Canada is at a stage where they are opening their doors to the world.

"Students get a wonderful Canadian experience with its four distinct seasons, each giving them a different experience. Many Malaysian alumni love the experience of the different seasons and they come back with those memories," said Lakehead University President and Vice Chancellor, Brian JR Stevenson.

"Canada is a multicultural country that celebrates and respects diversity. Not that we are perfect, but we embrace different cultures, religions, backgrounds and ways of thinking that to me makes a strong country," he added.

Canada universities are state supported and they have an even system throughout the country. Students get a world-class education and they have had many alumni from various parts of Malaysia to Lakehead who come back to have successful careers.

Studying in Canada also gives international students opportunities to prepare for their career. Graduates have the opportunity to have work permits after they graduate which allows them to pursue and start a career in Canada.

"The government has provided more opportunities for international students to work while they are studying. They can work part time up to 20 hours a week and full time up to 40 hours in between their normal school breaks. That gives them a chance to build a Canadian resume and get work experience," said Lakehead University Director of International Enrolment, Robert Perrier.

Stevenson said Canada education is trying to move towards experiential learning. He believes universities are more than just training, it is about broadening horizons.

"Being an undergraduate is a pivotal time of their lives. It is not about getting a job or a career, it is about attaining adulthood, discovering who you are and applying that to the world after you graduate. Supporting students through that stage in life and helping them understand where they should go is a critical challenge to Canadian education.

"I also think keeping up with the development of knowledge is another challenge. There are more information than knowledge in the world, and the question is how you differentiate them. You can go on the internet and there are lots of information. You can take a MOOC, but that doesn't give you knowledge and certainly, doesn't give you wisdom. The process of education is how you educate people in a world of technology," he said.

Stevenson added that globalisation has been a fantastic opportunity for educators. When he was a student, there were very few opportunities to study abroad or to have international students. It was beginning to happen at that time, but it wasn't as prevalent.

"I now travel throughout Southeast Asia and visit our students who have never left Thunder Bay, Canada, and all of a sudden they are in Singapore and China. This is a life changing experience. They are learning about a world outside of their community. It is very moving and inspiring to see that transformation,” he said.