John Isaiah – Royal Crown Academic School, Toronto

Why did you choose to study in Canada?

Coming from Nigeria, going to school in Canada was a dream of mine, and the educational and living standards were unmatched in any other country. 

What did/do you like most about the school?

Well, first and foremost, I would say the quality of education. Secondly, coming from Nigeria, I was used to living in my own bubble and culture, but that all changed when I went to school in Canada and met people from different cultures.

What did you like most about Toronto?

Everything was amazing for me as a newcomer in a foreign city, from visits to the zoo to visit the CN Tower for the first time, visiting Ripley’s Aquarium, and my most memorable excursion was to the Ontario Science Centre with my school.

Did you face any kind of a ‘culture shock’ when you arrived?

No, not really. It was really smooth adjusting.

What do you miss most about Canada?

My friends and the Ripley’s Aquarium: I always went there with friends, and I took my mom there when she came to visit, so it holds wonderful memories for me.

Do you have some tips to save money while studying abroad?

Saving money was difficult at first, but one strategy I learned was to constantly divide your money when you had it, keeping some for spending, emergencies, bills, and more. And never waste money on trivial items; you don’t have to impress anyone.

How do you think you have benefitted from your study overseas?

I was able to be more open-minded, and I met the most amazing group of people who really changed my life. My viewpoint on the world has changed to some extent, but for the better.

What advice would you give to a Nigerian student travelling abroad to study for the first time?

Be yourself because it’s easy to lose yourself with all the newfound freedom you’ll have. Remember why you went there. Make a lot of friends because leaving your family might be lonely at times.