"My first winter here is something I always remember fondly. I had never seen snow before coming to Canada (or at least that I could remember). I remember being in Saugeen-Maitland Hall and getting my friends to go and play outside in the snow or tobogganing down UC Hill." - Bianca

"It’s hard to believe how much I was able to fit into just four years—from international research and study tours to campus involvement. Looking back, it feels like a lifetime of learning and growth packed into a single chapter. I’ve changed so much as a person, matured through every experience, and I’ll genuinely cherish the time I’ve spent here." - Kiran

"I would describe my Western experience as empowering, supportive, and transformative. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and uplifted. Volunteering, building friendships, and learning to navigate a new environment helped me grow in confidence and competence. Western gave me not just an education, but a sense of belonging and purpose." - Zenab

Summer International Student Orientation

This month, we welcomed a new group of international undergraduate and graduate students beginning their studies this summer.

Since April 2, Western International staff and volunteers have hosted a variety of online workshops and international orientation events, including a Welcome Centre, New Student Celebration, and webinars with tips for settling in at Western and more. 

Planning is underway for Fall International Student Orientation, which will launch on August 25 with the opening of the Welcome Centre and continue throughout September. Details will be shared with incoming students in our summer communications and posted on our website as they are confirmed.

Support The Global Undergraduate Awards

If you know a student who has produced outstanding coursework, encourage them to apply to this year's Global Undergraduate Awards.

Open to students and graduates from the classes of 2024, 2025 and 2026, this free international pan-disciplinary competition recognizes top coursework from around the world. Global Winners are also invited to attend a Global Summit in Dublin.

The deadline for students to submit to The Global Undergraduate Awards (UA) is June 7.

Nyren Mo: Five Things About Me

1. I’m a Digital Engagement Coordinator with a focus on visual storytelling, including videos, photos, graphics, and print design. I also manage Western International’s Instagram channel and collaborate with campus partners. 
2. I’m from Nanjing, China, which is known as the sister city to London, ON. I was an international student and finished both bachelor's and master's degrees at Western’s Faculty of Information and Media Studies. 
3. I was the story producer for a reality TV show called The Day I ran China on Discovery Channel that featured apprentices taking tours in high-tech industries and competing for startup bursaries. It was interesting to travel across the country from the desert to the beach. 

4. A highlight of my work with Western International is creating videos in various formats to engage with students. We formed a team last year for the Forest City Film Festival 48-hour challenge and our film won the best editing and acting awards. 

5. Fun fact: I’m a rail enthusiast. I collect train models. I have 20 trains at home which usually take two hours to set up on 80-feet-long tracks.

Did you know? 

Western International offers supports and community-building opportunities for families and partners of international students, including International Family Fridays - a weekly, informal drop-in gathering where they can connect with fellow newcomers, practice their English and learn from each other and from Western International staff about Canadian culture.

If you have ideas, suggestions or opportunities with an international focus to share, please let us know at wicomms@uwo.ca.