Five Perks of Studying in Canada

Aug. 18, 2021

Did you know that Canada is #1 in the world for quality of life (US News and World Report, Best Countries 2021)? From the variety in our seasons to the diversity of our communities, there are so many things you can look forward to about studying (and living) in Canada. If you’re a prospective international student, trust us – the move and paperwork are more than worth it to spend a few years here! These are just five benefits of life in Canada to kick off your list: 

1. You’ll experience every kind of weather.

In addition to the frigid, snowy winters we’re known for here in the Great White North (where -30 degrees celcius is a thing), we also get near-tropical summers (30+ degrees celcius)…and everything in between! No monsoon or drought seasons around here, but you’ll get to experience almost every other weather pattern, not to mention all the beautiful plants and animals this kind of ecosystem sustains.

Tip: Buy your winter coat, boots, hat, mittens and scarf once you’re here. They're bulky to travel with and you might not really know what you need until you see and feel the environment first-hand (plus you'll have lots of new Canadian friends to help you shop).  

2. You can explore a gorgeous landscape.

Depending on where you visit in Canada, you’ll see everything from ultra-flat plains to rocky mountains to deep forests and massive fresh water lakes. In our part of Ontario, you’ll see lots of beautiful, open farmland while just a few hours north you can visit “cottage country”, a popular region for Canadians to spend their holidays enjoying trees, water and the Canadian Shield all around them.

Tip: If you visit Niagara Falls, be sure to take the “Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour” that’ll carry you out on the lake under the falls to see and feel the fresh water up close. 

3. You can enjoy vibrant city life.

The Toronto-Waterloo Tech Corridor is one of the top hubs for technology and innovation in North America and the cities on either end (and in between) are always booming with new businesses, residential areas, transportation methods and entertainment options. There are countless sights to see and adventures to explore (both new creations and heritage sites) in Ontario’s capital city, Toronto.

Tip: If you visit the CN Tower in Toronto, reserve a table ahead of time to dine at 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower where you will enjoy spectacular views of the whole city from a sky-high, rotating dining room. Don’t forget to stop in at Ripley’s Aquarium (or catch a baseball game at the Rogers Centre)!

4. You’ll never be far from a taste of home.

Thanks to the over 220 nations represented by the residents of Waterloo Region, you’ll find food from almost every type of cuisine and heritage available in town. We know nothing beats the taste of mom or dad’s cooking, but these ought to come pretty close.

Tip: Get started on your exploration of foods from around the world with this food columnist’s guide to international cuisine in Waterloo Region.

5. You can be yourself.

Laurier, and Canada as a whole, is proud to be a community rooted in values like diversity, equity and inclusion. Whatever your story is and whoever you are becoming, you’re welcome here and we’re excited to be on this journey with you.

Tip: Get involved in a variety of clubs, teams or study groups on campus to maximize not only your opportunity to meet people from all backgrounds, but also to discover new interests, hobbies and passions.

Find out more about what Canada has to offer.