Viktoriia Alekiseieva

What made your ELC program special?

The rest of my life I will remember what is like to be surrounded by such a beautiful natural environment, and the kindest, friendliest and the most supportive people around me. Each day for me was like a beginning of something interesting and exciting, where I could be myself and be fully accepted.

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

There are way more, but I will limit myself with two:

1. attending the Royal BC Museum and learning about First Nations cultures
2. taking a ferry from Vancouver to Victoria and enjoying the stunning views.

Do you have any favourite memories of Canadian culture?

I was truly amazed how beautiful and multicultural Canada is, and I realized that while attending a summer music festival by the water. I remember the music and sunset, fireworks after, and the midnight buzz around the city. That moment I felt that I had come to the right place. 

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

The whole program is like a living library, where each individual shares their own story, opinion, background, or even way of thinking and mindset. UVic showed me the value of different cultures being united, respected and understood, and how you personally could grow from this experience. “Thinking outside of the box” in practice.

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

Enormously! UVic boosted my English competencies and sparked my interest in cultures of North America. Now I work as Program Manager at America House in Ukraine. It is the primary cultural center for American culture, education, and information.

What advice would you give another student who is thinking about taking an ELC program?

Take all the opportunities and make the best of this program. Trust me, it will be a memorable and enriching experience! Explore the city, meet new people, practice your speaking skills, exchange with others a lot, ask and learn from all possible sources, go on trips, participate in activities, try new cuisine and many more.