Building Great Memories at Conestoga College
Author: Jennyfer Ahumada - International Media Content Coordinator, Conestoga College
Providing an international education experience with excellent student services is essential, especially for international students. At Conestoga College, these services are not just an add-on; they are the foundation that supports the entire student experience, helping students navigate academic, personal, and cultural transitions.
As a graduate of Conestoga and now a member of the International Media team, I have had the privilege of observing how the college effectively strengthens these services. This approach is crucial to student success and to creating meaningful memories during their time at the institution.
When international students arrive in Canada, they face a series of challenges: new academic systems, unfamiliar social norms, cultural differences, language barriers, and the pressure of being far from home. For these students to make the most of their experience, it is essential that they get involved in student life at Conestoga, as the college offers numerous opportunities to support them at every step of their adaptation.
One example is the opportunity for students to work part-time on campus. This service not only allows them to gain professional experience but also facilitates their integration into the academic and social environment of the college. Additionally, Conestoga provides a wide range of resources: from orientation programs and career support to mental health services and language development, as well as clubs and events where students can interact and form valuable connections.
The International Media team plays a key role in connecting students with these essential services. Through strategic content creation and communication campaigns, we ensure that critical information reaches students on the platforms they use daily, such as social media and online communities. Our goal is not only to inform but also to engage and support students in their journey, making them feel heard and understood.
Our commitment goes beyond sharing information; we aim to build genuine connections. Every piece of content we produce—whether it’s videos showcasing campus services or posts highlighting important resources—becomes a vital link for students, especially those who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. The personalized support we provide ensures that every student, regardless of their background, feels welcomed and prepared to succeed.
I am deeply proud to have been an international student at Conestoga and now to be part of the team that continues to promote student success. Whether we are promoting mental health services during exam periods, providing housing resources, preventing scams for newly arrived students, or highlighting career services to boost employability, our work makes a real difference. We contribute to creating an inclusive, enriching, and supportive student experience.
Each semester, more students come to Canada and choose Conestoga for their higher education. What I valued as a student and now appreciate even more as part of the international team is that Conestoga continues to lead in creating a positive, supportive, and thriving student experience for students from all over the world.
Conestoga not only supports students; it empowers them to achieve their personal and professional dreams. To me, that is extraordinary. Together, Conestoga and I have built great memories.