Conelia Akon Simon

Current city: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Year arrived in Canada: 2020

School: University of Prince Edward Island

Academic program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

1. What inspired you to pursue your studies in xyz of all the academic programs that were available to you?

I am studying nursing but I was passionate about accounting at first. At first, I was hesitant but my dad encouraged me to go for it. He told me that he would love for me to be the family nurse one day and would attend to him. That inspired me. In addition, I have always wanted to give back to the community and make a difference in people’s lives.

2. Do you have any advice to new students joining post-secondary institutions on choosing academic programs and careers for success after school?

Yes, you will have an advantage if you know which program you are interested in early. Also, consider the career path you want to take and how well they do here in Canada and other parts of the world. Have confidence in yourself and in your career choice. I made up my mind fairly late into my university journey. It is better to discover your passion early.

3. What challenges do you think hinder new South Sudanese students from succeeding in Canada?

Personally, I would say new environment and culture. Not having enough knowledge in the different career paths of interest. Talking to an academic advisor would ease that and also talking to senior students who came before you and have more experience.

4. How can new students cope with loneliness and feeling out of place when they first arrive in Canada?

Something that I did that helped me was joining new clubs and attending events held by the school. Being open to meeting new people is also important. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and experience different cultures and experiences.

5. Do you have a mentor? If so, how have they helped you in your academic or professional career?

No. However, I approached academic advisors and some wusc local committee members who helped me a lot.

6. From your experience so far, what does it take to succeed in Canada? (Measuring success in academic and professional terms).

I would say hard work, dedication and being open to learning new techniques. Give yourself time to socialize too and make connections. We need human interaction and support to succeed too. Moreover, set your goals and stick to them.

7. Is your racial profile helping or hindering your professional growth? That is, if race is a factor at all.

I have not experienced that yet.

8. Do you have any ideas on how new students can manage expectations from friends and family back home?

Do not give yourself too much pressure trying to help everyone back home. It is not possible and you will end up depressed and putting unnecessary pressure on yourself. Just do what you can and ignore the rests. Be ready to lose some of the friendships you formed back home because you will not be on the same page anymore. Your environment will be different from theirs and they will not be able to relate to you anymore. This could be in terms of academics and life in Canada. I experienced it first hand.

9. What do you know now that you wished you had known before you enrolled in first year of university?

I wish I would have trusted my abilities to pursue the career of my choice and start as early as possible. Look at the prerequisites required and work on them ASAP.

10. From your experience transitioning to Canadian life and culture, do you have any advice for new students?

Do not forget to build your social life in addition to your academic profile. We need each other in one way or another. Keep in touch with your family and friends.