Student Ambassador Reflection: Sijo Zachariah

In my life, many experiences could qualify as life-changing. Every new experience was, at one time or another, the first. For good or bad, each instance broadened my perception and gave me memories to cherish. One of the most remarkable experiences was being an international student ambassador.

I started my journey with RRC Polytechnic at the pandemic peak during the winter intake of 2021. I was happy the classes were delivered online as the temperatures were around 0 degrees celcius. As a person coming from the Middle East, this was the opposite of what I was used to! My course required me to be in Canada from the first day, during which I was homesick and found it hard to make connections with classmates. I tried signing up for intercultural mentorship but I wasn’t able to find a mentor. Fortunately, I came across an opportunity to volunteer as an International Student Ambassador. I applied as soon as possible, went through a simple interview process and next thing you know, I was one of three chosen international student ambassadors!!

As we were preparing to welcome new students for the fall intake, I was closely working with fellow ambassadors, Norlan and Parmeet. Norlan and Parmeet had a vast Canadian knowledge, communication, and leadership skills to share with us. I was also able to meet Ahmed, who also grew up in the Middle East, and then moved to Canada. We shared so many similarities that we instantly become friends and have been since exploring Manitoba together. For example, we visited Gimli, north of Winnipeg that’s known for its clear blue beaches during our first summer.

As an ambassador, I was given heads up on upcoming online and offline events. I was able to plan my schedule ahead to participate in several activities. Activities included Kahoot games, free tickets to moose games, Zoo lights, zoo tickets etc where I socialized from students from different courses and campuses

Being part of Kahoot games and other group activities, I met people from around the world. Though I have visited many countries, I never came across the diversity seen at RRC. These interactions have taught me to appreciate other cultures, know more about their cuisines (don’t judge, priorities) and build valuable connections to live and thrive in Friendly Manitoba

As International Students, we have so much knowledge and experience to share. Being an International Student Ambassador is a great opportunity to be creative, work in teams, learn the Canadian culture, meet new people, and have a great college experience. Special thanks to Norlan Page (not to be confused with Norman Umali) and Parmeet Ghatoaura, my fellow Ambassadors and all who connected with and supported me over this past year.

My final thought…sign up and make the most of your college experience!