As an international student, I’ve been in Calgary for almost six years. I graduated from Ambrose University with a Bachelor of Ministry in Intercultural Studies and then started my Master of Arts in Leadership and Ministry at Ambrose as well.

When I first came to Calgary, my first impression was that everyone was so friendly and respectful with all cultures. I was born and raised in Venezuela but come from a Chinese heritage. Venezuelans would tend to call names when they see Chinese or Americans walking down the streets. But I did not see any of that in Calgary. I also felt really safe when I was walking around here because it would not be a surprise if you were robbed or kidnapped in Venezuela.

As much as I felt safe and respected, I definitely had to adapt to the freezing cold weather and environment. I was a little worried whether I could meet people at Ambrose since I started off as a commuter student and I am an introvert as well. However, that was not an issue. Class sizes were small enough for me to get to know people.

I still have probably a couple of more years to finish my master’s degree and I’m looking forward to see the changes here at Ambrose and all the new faces.