Laurie Gouin
Canada
Laurie, a student from Quebec, found the Summer Language and Culture program especially memorable because of the friendships she built with students from around the world and the opportunity to give the end-of-session speech, while studying on her own in Victoria helped her learn more about herself and re-evaluate her goals and priorities.
Program you attended:
Summer Language and Culture
What made your ELC program special?
What made my program special was the people who took part in it. I made friends from all over the world. Also, the teachers and CA members are people who love their job and help us improve while having fun.
What is the most memorable thing that happened to you as an ELC student?
Having the opportunity to give the speech at the end of my session about my experience and all activities.
Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?
I am part of Canadian culture, but I found the activities enjoyable.
How did learning with students from other cultures change how you see the world?
I broadened my horizons to other cultures. I learned to discover what’s happening in the world.
Did studying English with us open any new opportunities for you? What are you doing now?
I’m still a student, but going to study in Victoria on my own allowed me to learn about myself and re-evaluate things. I’m still in school, but I’m an avid traveler, and that will definitely come in handy.
Advice for new students
Being open-minded, speaking English, and getting to know others. Participating in activities and getting involved in the program. It isn’t always easy, but this experience brings positives things.