Alessandro Fabián Zambrano
Ecuador
Which ELC program(s) did you attend?
I attended the Monthly English program.
What made your ELC program special?
It was always a dream for me to leave my country and see new places, and thanks to my mom and UVic I had the opportunity to make it happen. There were many things that made the program not only special, but also unforgettable. The conversations with the volunteers, my host family, my new friends, my teachers and the people from Canada were wonderful. It was an unforgettable experience.
What is the most memorable thing that happened to you as an ELC student?
I think it was making friends from all over the world. In the beginning, we sat down for lunch with my friends from Ecuador and two friends from Japan. Later, there were 13 of us at a table.
Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?
It would definitely be how the bus drivers are polite and respectful to all people. Also, people saying thank you to the bus driver.
How did learning with other students from other cultures change how you see the world?
I can understand how important it is to respect others for their culture and way of thinking, and how important it is to have a world where there are no cultural differences and we all share the same space. "The best that the world has, is in the many worlds that the world contains"-EG
Did studying English with us open any new opportunities for you? What are you doing now?
Learning English opens up many new opportunities. Now, I am doing my research work for the university and it has helped me to get in touch with experts in the field, besides being able to do it completely in English.
What's it like living in Victoria?
It was like a dream, the climate, the nature, the animals and the respectful and friendly people. For me who had never been to a place like this, it was like a perfect place to live.
Best advice for new students
Don't be afraid and make the most of this opportunity to learn English in the ELC program. It will help you grow professionally, academically and personally. There are many new things in the world, do not hesitate to learn about new cultures and new horizons, and give yourself the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone.
