The following International Student testimonials were gathered through voluntary end of the school year surveys.
Share your own HCDSB experience with us by email at isp@hcdsb.org.
What was your favourite experience while attending school at the HCDSB?
Peter
“The variety of classes, and the friendly studying atmosphere. I enjoy learning history, and religion class is my favourite subject.”
Student Name: Peter S.
HCDSB School: Assumption CSS
Home Country: China
Andres
“I can recall many favourite things/experiences that I lived while attending Loyola. One of them is being able to meet people from all around the world, such as Europeans, Asians, among other people that speak Spanish like me. Furthermore, the fact that I got to learn English and other subjects that I personally wanted, had amazing teachers and small things like having my own locker, made my whole experience very good.”
Student Name: Andres
HCDSB School: St. Ignatius of Loyola CSS
Home Country: Venezuela
Jamie
“Having a chance to live and study in a new environment, learning about different cultures and meeting new friends from different countries, trying different kinds of new food, learning to be independent, etc.”
Student Name: Jamie
HCDSB School: Assumption CSS
Home Country: China
Were you involved in any extra-curricular activities?
Kyle
“The biggest part of my extra-curricular activities in high school was my involvement in academic contests. Through preparing and competing in the contests, I could improve my learning skills and academic capabilities beyond the school curriculum. Also, being part of sports teams, such as badminton and track & field, allowed me to enjoy my school life even after all the classes are over.”
Student Name: Kyle H.
HCDSB School: St. Ignatius of Loyola CSS
Home Country: South Korea
Richard
“I joined the badminton club. There, I found people who enjoy badminton and also some worthy players. It made me bring back my passion about sports again.”
Student Name: Richard Z.
HCDSB School: Assumption CSS
Home Country: China
Keyas
“I [joined] the STEAM Club and luckily became an executive. I enjoyed the STEAM events, we hung out with elementary students and showed them how things work and explained things to them. I also enjoy the L2L Program, teaching others and also made friends there. I feel happy when I share what I have learned.”
Student Name: Keyas L.
HCDSB School: Notre Dame CSS
Home Country: China
Would you recommend the HCDSB to other potential International Students?
Shirley
“Yes, for sure. I think I chose the best school board that every international student should go to. All the teachers and students and school staff are very willing to help us with school life.”
Student Name: Shirley X.
HCDSB School: Notre Dame CSS
Home Country: China
Kelly
“Yes, because it is such a wonderful experience studying here. I got to know some wonderful individuals at this school, and also had the time and opportunity to try things I never experienced before. We also get the chance to get involved in some interesting classes such as repertoire and arts to find our own potential.”
Student Name: Kelly Y.
HCDSB School: Corpus Christi CSS
Home Country: China
Vivian
“It’s my first time in my life that I have an equal and friendly relationship with my teachers. They always help me and accept me even though I’m not a Canadian student.”
Student Name: Vivian Z.
HCDSB School: Holy Trinity CSS
Home Country: China
Do you have any other comments related to your experience at the HCDSB?
Linh
“Before I came to Canada, I was very nervous about a new country and a new school. However, [my choice] to be an HCDSB International Student was a good experience in every area in the school community. I feel very happy that I chose this.”
Student Name: Linh N.
HCDSB School: Jean Vanier CSS
Home Country: Vietnam
Harry
“It is just amazing. One of the best parts of my life.”
Student Name: Harry Y.
HCDSB School: Holy Trinity CSS
Home Country: China
Ryan
“It is a great experience to study in HCDSB and be an International Student at Notre Dame. I really highly recommend other international students come to join the greatest school board – HCDSB! I really enjoyed all the memories in my two high school years!”
Student Name: Ryan L.
HCDSB School: Notre Dame CSS
Home Country: China
Some student testimonials have been edited for clarity.