Hello, everyone! I’m Gabby, one of the founders of this initiative, and I’d like to take a moment to introduce myself. I am an international student currently studying in high school in Canada. My experiences here have been shaped by different living habits and educational practices compared to my home country. When I first arrived, I was full of beautiful fantasies about my new life, but I quickly encountered some heart-breaking troubles. Reflecting on my unpreparedness at that time, I felt a strong desire to do something to assist others facing similar challenges. This led my friend Leah and me to create this website, with the hope of helping more people overcome various psychological difficulties. Today, I would like to share some interesting stories from my time studying in Canada.
One of the biggest challenges I faced upon arriving in Canada was finding a suitable homestay. The first home I stayed in had issues with the host’s personality and unreasonable meal times, prompting me to move out after just seven days. The situation was even more troublesome in my second homestay. Initially, we got along well, but things took a turn for the worse when the host failed to adhere to the terms of our agreement. Despite my efforts to address the issues and improve our relationship, the host’s lack of cooperation ultimately led to an unpleasant eviction. Thankfully, I now reside in a homestay with a larger family, where my classmates also live. Living here has brought an end to my previous sense of isolation after school hours.
Contrary to the stereotype, international students face significant pressures. These pressures manifest in various forms, including academic stress, language barriers, the challenge of navigating different races and cultures alone, as well as everyday life and travel difficulties. Frustrations over exams and the realization that my hobbies may not be as fulfilling as I had imagined have also taken a toll. Self-doubt often creeps in during these challenging moments, leaving me unsure of whom to turn to or who would be willing to listen to my concerns. I am reluctant to show my vulnerable side to others, as I fear it may make them feel helpless or anxious.
Through these experiences, I have come to appreciate that hardships can reveal courage and pave the way for success. However, the pressures of life can significantly impact one’s mood. When a sense of depression lingers like a dark cloud, it can greatly diminish one’s zest for life. While there are aspects of life that we can come to terms with and accept, there are also instances where sadness is inevitable. It is crucial not to suppress our psychological narratives. I consider myself fortunate to have had my parents as a source of comfort and encouragement during these challenging times. However, I am aware that many students, and even adults, find it difficult to openly express their innermost feelings to those close to them. This inspired me to create an anonymous platform on our website where individuals can submit their troubles, allowing us to provide assistance and support.
In conclusion, I believe that while troubles may initially seem daunting, they can ultimately lead to personal growth and resilience. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can navigate life’s challenges more effectively. Thank you!