Ana Paulina Cortés

Program you attended:

I attended the Language and Culture program.

What made your ELC program special?

The whole staff, from the teachers to the Cultural Assistants, and the place; I’m talking about the campus, the activities each day, the city, all together - it’s what makes the experience so special.

What is the most memorable thing that happened to you as an ELC student?

The friendships, because even though it’s just 5 weeks, the connection you make with your classmates go beyond any cultural barrier, not just in the language, but in the way we empathize and take care of each other. 

Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?

it was surprising to see how much respect and kindness the people in Canada have towards each other, it’s part of their culture to put others first, and one of the biggest examples of this is the priority that pedestrians have while crossing the street. 

How did learning with students from other cultures change how you see the world?

I learn so many different traditions and ways of life, and this helped me realize that sometimes we take for granted the beautiful things in our own countries.

Did studying English with us open any new opportunities for you? What are you doing now?

Yes, I’m now considering take some volunteering work in the pshycology department there at UVic and go back to pursue a master’s degree once I graduate in Mexico and maybe stay in the city.