With individual stories that illustrate curiosity, courage and a desire to learn more about Canadian culture, Selkirk College is celebrating International Education Week by recognizing the contributions of students who have taken the bold step to study far from home.
Learners from across the world choose Selkirk College for a multitude of reasons, bringing skills, talents and cultural perspectives that help build a stronger economy and more inclusive society. Representing 45 different nations, more than 750 students are enrolled in different programs on campuses throughout the college region, illustrating a foundational component of the thriving post-secondary landscape.
“We are committed to international education because it helps enrich the lives of all students who choose Selkirk College,” says Vice President of Education & Students Taya Whitehead. “We have been growing this area for several years and it’s hard to imagine the college without this rich mix of perspectives. Inside the classroom and out in the community, the positive impacts are found everywhere and that is something that is truly worth celebrating.”
British Columbia is one of the most popular destinations for international student in Canada, accounting for 21 per cent of all students on study permits. Guidelines for public post-secondary institutions state that domestic students are not displaced by international students, so the benefits enhance the entire educational environment.
During the week of November 13 to 17, Selkirk College is marking International Education Week with events, activities and awareness. One of the annual highlights of the week is the Intercultural Fair that takes place on November 16 on the Castlegar Campus between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. where students and staff share food, games, information, song and dance.
Spreading Ideas and Making Positive Change
Tayo Olojede grew up in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria where the state slogan is "Land of Honor & Land of Knowledge,” so a focus on education has always been a cornerstone of his life. A second-year student in the Postgraduate Business Management Program, Olojede came to Selkirk College looking to build on his university degree in international relations by immersing himself in a new culture.
“International students want to spread good ideas and contribute,” says the 29-year-old. “The world is at a place where nobody can operate as an island, we all need each other. For sustainable growth in Canada, you need to involve the entire world. If more people are provided the opportunity, they are ready to work to bring about positive change.”
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Olojede arrived with a solid resume of experience that includes working as a managing director for a transportation company in Nigeria’s capital of Abuja and also spending time with government-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) .
With a desire to explore the world and opportunities that exist outside of Nigeria, Olojede began searching for post-secondary options and came across Selkirk College. Attracted by affordability, the mountainous beauty of the region and the small-town vibe, Olojede arrived in August 2022 to begin classes on the Castlegar Campus.
“It helps me shape my mind to understand more about the work that I have done in Nigeria,” he says of his first year of studies. “Before I was making decisions from my gut and intuition, but in this program, I am getting a deeper understanding through instructors and studying from the books. Getting to be in school and build on my knowledge by asking questions, it’s been a beautiful experience.”
Olojede has added depth to his Canadian experience by working at Castlegar’s Freedom Quest Youth Services on the residential services team. Helping serve young people who have been negatively impacted by substances and other adversities, he brings his positive energy to those in the community who need it.
Different Stories and Different Goals
Ranging from short-term study to build English skills and understanding of a new culture to starting a pathway towards permanent residency and a new life in Canada, international students arrive to Selkirk College with varying expectations and outcomes.
Rutuja Bhujbal arrived to Nelson’s Tenth Street Campus this past May looking to find mentorship to match her passion for culinary artistry. A first-year student in the Postgraduate Diploma in Culinary Management Program, Bhujbal was working as a cake decorator in the West Indian city of Pune where she grew up, when she decided to explore options for an international education.
“This is how I will grow,” says the 26-year-old. “When you step out of your comfort zone, you realize how much you can push yourself.
Coming to Canada opens up all aspects of the industry, it’s much less narrow than in India. Culinary is different all over the world, so you need to see what is out there. I wanted to learn more and see what I can offer.”
An outstanding student, Bhujbal quickly landed the perfect part-time job at Nelson’s new L&C French Bakery on Radio Avenue. Under the supervision of Chef Cyrielle, Bhujbal arrives to work at 4:30 am to help prepare the pastries for the day and makes it to class by 8:30 am. It’s a challenging pace, but one she’s embraced in the bigger part of her Canadian experience.
“I have been having the time of my life,” she says. “The Canadian people are the sweetest I have seen. People are very friendly and welcoming, and Nelson is a beautiful place to be.”
Learn more about some of the Selkirk College international student stories.
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all