What is Ottawa, Canada like?

From El Salvador to Ottawa, how I adapted to a new environment?

Adriana Rosacolocho, an international student from El Salvador in Algonquin College’s Digital Marketing Communication program, shares her experience adapting to life in Ottawa, from adjusting to a new culture and climate to building connections, overcoming challenges, and becoming more independent.

Moving from El Salvador to Ottawa and studying at Algonquin College was a big change in my life. It meant getting used to a different culture, meeting new people, learning new things, and finding a place in an unfamiliar environment. Although adapting was not easy, the experience helped me grow and become more independent.

Adjusting to a New Culture

One of the biggest challenges was getting used to life in Canada, as El Salvador and Canada having different cultures, traditions, weather and ways of life. One of the most difficult things that I had to get used to, and that I think I am still not used to, was the weather. Coming from a warm country to a place where winters can be extremely cold required me to adjust to a completely different climate.

I also had to get used to the way that people communicate, and their social interactions and everyday routines.

Finding my place in Ottawa

Moving to a new environment also meant learning how to feel comfortable in a new community. Meeting new people, building connections, and becoming familiar with my surroundings were important to my process of adaptation.

Going to school helped me meet people from different backgrounds and learn about different cultures. It also helped me realize that I was not the only person experiencing changes. Many international students were also adjusting to a new country and trying to build a new life for themselves.

Being surrounded by people with different experience also helped me become more open-minded and appreciate the diversity that makes Canada special.

Overcoming challenges and becoming independent

Adapting to a new country came with many challenges. There were moments where I missed my family, my traditions, the food, the familiar places, my country. There were also times when I had to figure out things on my own and learn how to navigate situations that were completely new to me.

These experiences taught me to be patient with myself and not expect everything to feel comfortable right away. I also learned that becoming independent is a process, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn something new.

My family had also been an important part of this journey. Having their support helped me through challenges and reminded me of the importance of staying connected to my roots while also building a new life in Canada.

Keeping my roots

Even though I have adapted to life in Ottawa, El Salvador is still and will always be a part of who I am. My culture, traditions, and background are what have shaped my values, and the way that I see the world.

I have learned that adapting to a new environment does not mean leaving your identity behind. Instead, it means finding the balance between where you come from and where you want to go.

Living in Canada has allowed me to experience new opportunities while also continuing to appreciate my Salvadorian roots.

My advice to Other international students

If you are planning on moving to Canada, the advice that I can give you is to be kind to yourself. You do not have to understand everything, or have everything figured out. Be open to meeting new people, exploring your surroundings, asking questions, and trying new things.

One thing that can make the transition easier is getting involved in campus life. At Algonquin College, the Students’ Association and the International Education Centre (IEC) offer activities and events where you can meet other students, make friends, and feel more connected to your new community.

If you ever feel overwhelmed or homesick, remember that you do not have to figure everything out alone. Algonquin College offers Counselling Services and other resources to support students. You can also explore the International Student Support Services Handbook to learn more about the services available to you.

It is also important to stay connected with your family and culture while also allowing yourself to grow through new experiences. There will be difficult times but remember that those moments do not mean that you are failing, it just means that you are adapting.

Looking back on my journey from El Salvador to Ottawa has taught that adapting to a new environment takes times, courage, and an open mind. It is not about becoming a completely new person. It is about discovering part of yourself while also staying in touch with who you are, your roots. Never forget your roots, because without them we would not be here.