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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFor Pallavi Thapar, choosing the University of Waterloo was more than just a college decision. It was a smart move that changed the course of her life. The university\u2019s famous co-op program, which allows students to work while studying, offered her something she truly valued: real-world experience, exposure to new industries, and a chance to build a professional network in Canada.That choice turned out to be life-changing. Through her co-op placements, Pallavi didn\u2019t just gain skills; she also learned the importance of networking and stepping out of her comfort zone. \u201cBuilding connections here is just as important as getting good grades,\u201d she says. From psychology lectures to marketing internships, she turned every opportunity into a new learning curve, proving that success abroad is as much about adaptability as ambition.<\/p>\n From Homesick to Empowered: A Candid Indian Student\u2019s Journey at University of Waterloo<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n Back in India, Pallavi\u2019s interest in psychology guided her decision to study abroad. The application process, from writing her statement of purpose to preparing for the IELTS, was a journey of reflection. \u201cWriting my SOP was one of the hardest parts. It forced me to think deeply about my goals and what I wanted from my education,\u201d she says.When classes began in Canada, Pallavi quickly noticed how different the learning system was. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t about memorising anymore. The professors here encourage debates and discussions. They want you to think, question, and apply what you learn,\u201d she explains. The shift from rote learning to practical application was challenging at first but soon became one of the things she loved most about her course.<\/p>\n The first few weeks in Canada were filled with new experiences. \u201cEverything felt unfamiliar, from the food to the weather,\u201d Pallavi recalls. \u201cI was even surprised when strangers smiled at me or started small talk. People here are so friendly, it takes a bit of getting used to!\u201dHomesickness was toughest during Indian festivals, but joining campus clubs made all the difference. She became part of the Indian Association, the Bollywood Dance Club, and the Singing Association, which helped her meet people and find comfort in community. \u201cThose clubs made me feel at home. They gave me a sense of belonging and helped me make friends from all over the world.\u201d<\/p>\n In her first year, Pallavi stayed in a residence hall, a common choice for new students at Waterloo. \u201cIt was amazing because you get to meet people from different countries and learn about their cultures,\u201d she says.Now she lives in an on-campus apartment where she cooks, cleans, and does her own laundry. \u201cAt first, it feels overwhelming, but you slowly figure things out. That\u2019s one of the best things about studying abroad. You learn to be independent and take charge of your life.\u201d<\/p>\n The real turning point came when Pallavi joined her first co-op placement. She arrived in Canada thinking she would become a psychologist or therapist, but her first work experience was in marketing \u2014 and it completely changed her perspective.\u201cWhen I started my first co-op job in marketing, I realised how much I enjoyed it. It made me think, \u2018I\u2019m actually good at this.\u2019 That was a big moment for me,\u201d she says. She took more co-ops in marketing, added business courses to her degree, and eventually switched her career focus.Today, she\u2019s working as a marketing intern, applying both her psychology background and creative skills to her work. \u201cThe co-op program builds confidence and helps you understand the professional world before you graduate. It\u2019s tough, but it\u2019s worth it.\u201d<\/p>\n Pallavi received a $2,000 merit-based scholarship, awarded to students scoring above 90% in their home country. She also picked up a part-time job with the Waterloo Students Association, which helped her manage expenses and meet new people.\u201cFinding a part-time job isn\u2019t easy, but once you get one, it really helps you settle in,\u201d she explains. \u201cYou not only earn, but you also meet people who guide and support you.\u201dOf course, there were challenges along the way. \u201cTextbooks and winter clothes can be expensive, but if you\u2019re thrifty, you can find affordable options on Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores,\u201d she says with a smile.<\/p>\n Pallavi quickly began embracing Canadian traditions, celebrating Thanksgiving dinners and enjoying St. Patrick\u2019s Day festivities with her friends. \u201cThese festivals are such a big part of life here, and I\u2019ve started celebrating them too,\u201d she says. \u201cIt makes you feel more connected to the community around you.\u201d<\/p>\n Looking back, Pallavi says that choosing the University of Waterloo was one of the best decisions she ever made. \u201cThe job market here is very competitive, but there are endless opportunities if you\u2019re ready to work hard and network,\u201d she says.Her advice to students planning to study abroad is honest and encouraging:\u201cYou can\u2019t have it all figured out at once. Everyone\u2019s figuring things out in their own way, so don\u2019t be too hard on yourself. Be open-minded, embrace the change, and push your boundaries a little. That\u2019s where growth really happens.\u201dFor Pallavi, studying abroad has been about more than academics. It has been about building confidence, finding independence, and learning to adapt. \u201cIt\u2019s a journey that tests you, shapes you, and rewards you,\u201d she says. \u201cAnd it\u2019s worth every bit of effort.\u201d<\/div>\nFrom career dreams to reality<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Finding her footing abroad<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Learning independence, one step at a time<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
The co-op experience that changed her path<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Balancing work, finances and growth<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Embracing Canadian culture<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n
Lessons from the journey<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n