The last episode of Students Speak covered some essential aspects of the study abroad journey of Shaikh Muzahimuddin, like his research mechanism, travel and accommodation arrangements. He also brought some great insights into the overall visa process and the GIC program. In this episode, let’s get to know some valuable tips from him for students travelling during COVID. He also shares his views on working part-time while studying abroad and shares some important advice for students currently planning to study abroad.

His advice for students travelling to Canada during COVID times

Following the quarantine prerequisites can be bothersome. However, if you are fully vaccinated 14-15 days before arriving in your host country, you need not quarantine yourself. All you have to do is share your vaccination certificate with your university to get the exemption. Once you communicate to your university, you will receive a letter confirming your exemption, allowing you direct entry into the country without quarantining yourself. Also, keep yourself updated with the latest information and prerequisites prescribed by the respective country and university. Some of the most reliable sources to keep up with the COVID updates are your university’s official website, Twitter handle, Instagram account, and other social media platforms.

His take on part-time jobs

Muzahim recommends study abroad students to take up part-time jobs if possible. He explains that the rationale behind it is very simple, although we have enough funds in the GIC account, part-time jobs help earn some extra cash to support your stay. The Canadian government is supportive and hence, allows you to work up to 20 hours per week. Secondly, he credits an effective Canadian education system that can help you easily strike a right balance between your higher studies and a part-time job. He further remarks that it is essential to attend the lectures on time and submit your projects on time. If you manage this part well, you can manage the part-time job too. He emphasizes working part-time, which is an excellent way of earning some extra bucks while studying abroad.

How to find part-time jobs?

After researching, he learned that he first has to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to find a part-time job, you will also need SIN number to activate your GIC account. The SIN is a nine-digit number that will allow you to work in Canada. You can apply for SIN by visiting the official website of the Government of Canada. Once you have your SIN number, you are all set to work in Canada. To find employment, create an impressive CV and circulate it across the stores you are interested in working. You can expect jobs like store-keeping or back-office jobs. He reiterates that in order to get jobs, it is imperative to have your SIN in place.

Some invaluable tips for students who aspire to study abroad

Speaking from his own experience, he says that it is necessary to start planning your higher studies while you are in your higher secondary level. He insists that you must strive hard to get good grades while pursuing your Bachelor’s degree since it will set the right stage for your entry to well-ranking international universities for further studies. He stresses that students need to conduct thorough research before making decisions related to studying abroad. Connect with your peers, relatives, and alumni studying abroad who will successfully guide you since they have access to the relevant information.

He further elaborates his view on being homesick. He believes it is necessary to be mentally prepared because it is natural to be homesick once you land in a new country. He suggests that socializing with your peers plays a vital role in your study abroad journey to overcome this challenge. Muzahim mentions that one of the sessions conducted by Lambton College also stressed on the importance of socializing as it helps you de-stress and stay steadfast in your pursuit of achieving your academic dreams.

So, this is all about Muzahim’s academic journey planning. We wish him all the best for his future endeavours. Stay tuned with us as we bring more such experience-sharing articles to assist you with your academic planning. If you have any doubt, please reach out to us.