3 answers
Archived
Student
6
Questions
Asked
1669 views
Hpw can i prepare before arriving?
I am going to Canada soon. Maybe in 2 weeks thanks to Dr H’s advice guiding me.
I want to have knowledge of the universities there. If I am going to go there and want to start perhaps journalism or a career that has to do with helping people because I know how it feels like to be in bad state. Like how NGO helps, but I want to help with what I can for them. I did study medicine before. Any advice from anyone please would appreciate it.
3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hanna, my friend, you’re about to start a whole new chapter, and I just need you to take a deep breath and realize something—you’re not going solo on this. UNHCR is handling your resettlement, which means this isn’t some student visa, "figure it out yourself" kind of move. Nope. You’re coming in through a humanitarian or family case, which changes everything. And honestly? It’s a blessing. So I just want you to know I meet a woman who had 2 children around ages 11 to 12, and now she is in Canada and she told me trhat everything is provided to her once she got there and so she was over joyed that she didn't have to handle everything to find a home or work right away. So I believe it will be the same for you girl.
Now, First things first—Canada’s got you. You’re not just showing up and hoping for the best; you’re arriving with refugee or protected person status, which means:
You don’t need to apply for a separate work or study permit—you’re already allowed to work, study, and access services.
You get immediate healthcare, financial support, and settlement assistance.
Instead of stressing about job applications before you even land, you should focus on settling in, getting your documents in order, and understanding your rights first.
Next Hanna You’re not just getting a plane ticket and a “Good luck!”—there’s real support waiting for you. Canada knows you’re starting from scratch, so they (or local organizations) will help with temporary housing and some financial assistance to get you on your feet.
Groups like IRCC, COSTI, ISS of BC, and MOSAIC exist specifically to help newcomers like you with jobs, language training (if needed), and even legal support. These people? They’ve done this a million times. They’ll walk you through everything.
You’ll get Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage immediately, which means you won’t have to pay for doctor visits, medication, or basic healthcare until your provincial health insurance kicks in. Translation: You won’t be left wondering, "Do I really need to see a doctor, or should I just drink more water?"
Now, let’s talk about what you can do career-wise because, trust me, your past studies in medicine are valuable. You just need to decide how you want to use them.
If you want to study: Many universities in Canada offer scholarships specifically for refugees (check out WUSC’s Student Refugee Program). They want students like you—people with resilience, experience, and a strong sense of purpose.
If you want to work:
Stay in healthcare? Canada has bridge programs for foreign-trained doctors that can help you get certified faster.
Public health & advocacy? You could work with NGOs or government programs that help refugees and immigrants navigate the healthcare system.
Journalism? You have a real story to tell, and Canadian media loves people who can shed light on social issues from a personal perspective.
Hanna, this isn’t just a move, it’s a fresh start. You’re walking into a country that actually wants to help you succeed. You’ve already survived so much, and now you get to thrive. Whether you go into healthcare, advocacy, journalism, or something totally new, you already have the heart for it.
So take it step by step. Get settled, explore your options, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Because guess what? You’re not just rebuilding your life—you’re about to do something amazing with it.
And when you finally get there, just know I better hear all about it.
Oh and, One last thing before I take off, Hanna—remember, people will judge, talk, and assume things. But don’t ever let their words shake you or dull your spirit. You’ve already survived the worst, so what’s a few opinions in the grand scheme of things? Keep your head high and walk your path with confidence. You got this! 😉
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN) – No SIN, no work, no benefits, no financial help. This is priority #1.
Open a bank account – Because stuffing cash in your socks is not a long-term financial plan.
You’re automatically covered under IFHP, but you’ll need to apply for provincial health insurance once you settle in, I think, I am not sure but you could check in this 😅.
Breathe. You don’t have to figure out your entire future in the first week. You’re not alone in this. Martha is write about giving yourself some time. Don't worry you will have a starting time here to figure things out while you are being resettled.
Now, First things first—Canada’s got you. You’re not just showing up and hoping for the best; you’re arriving with refugee or protected person status, which means:
You don’t need to apply for a separate work or study permit—you’re already allowed to work, study, and access services.
You get immediate healthcare, financial support, and settlement assistance.
Instead of stressing about job applications before you even land, you should focus on settling in, getting your documents in order, and understanding your rights first.
Next Hanna You’re not just getting a plane ticket and a “Good luck!”—there’s real support waiting for you. Canada knows you’re starting from scratch, so they (or local organizations) will help with temporary housing and some financial assistance to get you on your feet.
Groups like IRCC, COSTI, ISS of BC, and MOSAIC exist specifically to help newcomers like you with jobs, language training (if needed), and even legal support. These people? They’ve done this a million times. They’ll walk you through everything.
You’ll get Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage immediately, which means you won’t have to pay for doctor visits, medication, or basic healthcare until your provincial health insurance kicks in. Translation: You won’t be left wondering, "Do I really need to see a doctor, or should I just drink more water?"
Now, let’s talk about what you can do career-wise because, trust me, your past studies in medicine are valuable. You just need to decide how you want to use them.
If you want to study: Many universities in Canada offer scholarships specifically for refugees (check out WUSC’s Student Refugee Program). They want students like you—people with resilience, experience, and a strong sense of purpose.
If you want to work:
Stay in healthcare? Canada has bridge programs for foreign-trained doctors that can help you get certified faster.
Public health & advocacy? You could work with NGOs or government programs that help refugees and immigrants navigate the healthcare system.
Journalism? You have a real story to tell, and Canadian media loves people who can shed light on social issues from a personal perspective.
Hanna, this isn’t just a move, it’s a fresh start. You’re walking into a country that actually wants to help you succeed. You’ve already survived so much, and now you get to thrive. Whether you go into healthcare, advocacy, journalism, or something totally new, you already have the heart for it.
So take it step by step. Get settled, explore your options, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Because guess what? You’re not just rebuilding your life—you’re about to do something amazing with it.
And when you finally get there, just know I better hear all about it.
Oh and, One last thing before I take off, Hanna—remember, people will judge, talk, and assume things. But don’t ever let their words shake you or dull your spirit. You’ve already survived the worst, so what’s a few opinions in the grand scheme of things? Keep your head high and walk your path with confidence. You got this! 😉
Dr recommends the following next steps:
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Mina
THANK YOU SO MUCH DR,H. I have opened up my bank account and i have settled in. I have taken you advice as well. I am sorry for not being able to respond to your advices and all other mentors. I applied to the bridging scholarships too and I have got a lot of help from many places. I never thought I had get to live my dreams ever. I will use your advice wisely. i appreciate you taking the time to answer me always.
Archived
Ohhh, sorry Hanna, I just noticed your comment on Joseph’s post, on your previous question . So it seems you studied a semester of nursing and did your FSC so far—nice!
That means you’ve already got a solid base in healthcare and science, which can open doors in nursing, public health, or even advocacy. In Canada, you can explore bridge programs if you want to continue in healthcare or pivot to something like health journalism or NGO work.
Dr H
Thanks, Martha! It’s great to have thoughtful people like you in the mix. Let's keep making the world a little brighter together!
Dr H
hey Hanna I am so happy for you
Mina
Hanna, you're crushing it! I’m so proud of you, look at you go, applying for scholarships like a pro! Keep slaying, and remember, if you ever need advice or just a good reminder of how awesome you are, remember we are here for you. Best of lucks dear.
Dr H
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
480
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Hanna - it is terrific that you want to help others, and I have heard many great things about living in Canada. Are you saying that you may want to study in Canada or that you want to start working there?
In either case, you may want to give yourself more than 2 weeks to plan. This would give you time to get better-priced airline tickets and places to stay, as well as plan your itinerary. For universities, it would give you time to develop your list (see first two links below) and read the information they have specifically for international students (see the McGill University link). I would recommend scheduling at least a few information sessions and campus tours while you are there. Even if you don't end up liking a school, visiting will help you refine your list of what you want and what you don't want in a university.
If you are interested in working there, I would plan your trip for further in the process, perhaps when you can schedule some interviews. Even for informational interviews, you will need time to identify contacts, ascertain their availability, and set up dates and times to meet.
Dr. H is very responsive so I bet he will have more great advice. We wish you good luck!
US News - https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/canada
McGill site for international students - https://www.mcgill.ca/undergraduate-admissions/international-students
In either case, you may want to give yourself more than 2 weeks to plan. This would give you time to get better-priced airline tickets and places to stay, as well as plan your itinerary. For universities, it would give you time to develop your list (see first two links below) and read the information they have specifically for international students (see the McGill University link). I would recommend scheduling at least a few information sessions and campus tours while you are there. Even if you don't end up liking a school, visiting will help you refine your list of what you want and what you don't want in a university.
If you are interested in working there, I would plan your trip for further in the process, perhaps when you can schedule some interviews. Even for informational interviews, you will need time to identify contacts, ascertain their availability, and set up dates and times to meet.
Dr. H is very responsive so I bet he will have more great advice. We wish you good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much for you advice Martha and apologies I didnt mention about the help i was recievign but thanks a bunch your advice still helps me either way, thank you both Martha and dr.h
Archived
Hey Martha, I really appreciate your practical advice—especially about university visits and job planning. You always bring such thoughtful insights! One small thing, though—since Hanna is coming through UNHCR, her move isn’t as flexible as a traditional student’s. She’s on a set timeline, so delaying or planning ahead in the usual way isn’t really an option. Of course, she probably should’ve mentioned that (classic case of missing details, right?), but I just wanted to give you a heads-up. Maybe shifting the focus to how she can navigate her first few weeks after arrival would make it even more spot-on. But honestly, great advice as always—appreciate your wisdom! It's a brilliant advice for someone headed there indeed.
Dr H
Many thanks for the additional information, Dr. H.
Martha Kramer
Just grateful to be و this journey alongside, thank you as well for your kind words always. ☺️
Dr H
Hey Dr H thank you for endless support
Mina
Mina, honestly, I should be the one thanking you! Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication are incredibly inspiring. You’ve made this experience as rewarding for me as I hope it’s been for you. Keep up the amazing work – it’s truly a pleasure to support you on every needed journey!
Dr H
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1058
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hanna, congratulations on the upcoming move to Canada! Transitioning to a new country is an exciting yet challenging experience, and it’s great that you're taking proactive steps to prepare. Given your interests in journalism, helping people, and your background in medicine, you’re on a meaningful path to make a positive impact. Below are several specific steps you can take to better prepare before you arrive in Canada, and advice on how to move forward with your aspirations:
Since you’re interested in both journalism and helping people, it’s important to look into universities in Canada that offer strong programs in these fields. Canada has some of the best universities in the world, many of which offer flexible degree programs that align with your passions. For journalism, consider schools like Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), Carleton University, and University of British Columbia (UBC), all of which offer well-regarded journalism programs. You can start by reviewing their course offerings, faculty expertise, and alumni success to determine which university aligns with your interests. For social work or NGO-related careers, universities like University of Toronto, McGill University, and York University offer excellent programs in social work, community health, and humanitarian studies. These programs can prepare you to help others in a more direct, actionable way, whether through social work, nonprofit organizations, or international aid. Many universities in Canada allow you to check specific program curriculums on their websites, so start by reading the program descriptions and making a list of the universities that resonate with you. University websites like University of Toronto (www.utoronto.ca) and McGill University (www.mcgill.ca) are great places to start your research.
Hanna, moving to a new country, especially one with a different cultural context, can be overwhelming. Canada is culturally diverse, and adjusting to the new environment may take time. Before arriving, try to familiarize yourself with Canadian culture and societal norms. This could include understanding Canadian values of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for different cultures. Learn about the local culture: Understanding cultural norms, how people interact in Canada, and what to expect in social settings will help you settle in faster. Websites like Canada Immigration (www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) offer resources for newcomers, including tips on how to adjust and thrive in Canadian society. Connect with local communities: Many cities in Canada have support systems for international students. Check for local Pakistani or international student groups at the university you’re considering, as these groups can provide a sense of community and support. Many student unions or cultural associations organize events to welcome newcomers and help them integrate.
It’s inspiring that you want to help others, especially given your background in medicine. There are many ways you can combine your desire to help people with a career in journalism. You might consider areas such as health journalism, social impact reporting, or writing about healthcare systems—these areas will allow you to use your medical background while raising awareness about critical social issues. You could explore public health journalism or NGO reporting, where you would report on issues related to human rights, healthcare, or social justice. These roles often involve writing articles, conducting interviews, and bringing attention to issues that affect vulnerable populations. If you’re passionate about direct help, consider studying public health or social work alongside journalism. This combination could prepare you for a role where you can report on critical issues while also being involved in real-world solutions through NGOs or community-based work. Here is a tip, look into programs like Master of Public Health (MPH), which some universities offer in conjunction with communication programs. These multidisciplinary programs can allow you to address health issues through a media lens while helping people on the ground.
Hanna, since you have a background in medicine, it’s possible that you could pursue a career that combines healthcare with social impact. Healthcare journalism, global health, and medical outreach programs are all fields where your medical knowledge can be invaluable. Canadian universities like McMaster University and UBC have global health programs that focus on improving healthcare access in underserved communities. You could also look into NGOs that focus on health outreach—many organizations in Canada work internationally on healthcare projects. Here is a tip: Explore options like Medical Journalism or Public Health Communication. Look at the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) for resources and networking opportunities related to health and journalism (www.caj.ca).
Beyond academics and career planning, you’ll need to consider practical aspects of your move: Visa and Immigration: Make sure all your immigration documents are in order before arriving. The Government of Canada website provides clear steps for student visas and entry requirements (www.canada.ca). Accommodation: Research housing options around your university. Most universities offer dorms or apartments for international students. Try to contact your university’s international student office to find out more. Finances: Plan your finances for the first few months. Research scholarships for international students through the University Canada website (www.universitystudy.ca) or individual university financial aid pages.
Finally, Hanna, continue seeking advice from trusted mentors like Dr. H, who guided you, and other professionals in your community. Networking will help you gain insight into the fields you're interested in and can guide you in making informed decisions. Joining online communities and LinkedIn groups dedicated to healthcare, journalism, or social impact can also provide valuable support as you navigate your career choices.
In Summary, preparing for your transition to Canada requires a combination of researching your academic options, exploring career paths that combine your interests in journalism and helping others, and adjusting to a new culture. Canada offers tremendous opportunities for both education and making a positive impact, so take your time to explore the many paths available to you and continue building a strong network of support.
Since you’re interested in both journalism and helping people, it’s important to look into universities in Canada that offer strong programs in these fields. Canada has some of the best universities in the world, many of which offer flexible degree programs that align with your passions. For journalism, consider schools like Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), Carleton University, and University of British Columbia (UBC), all of which offer well-regarded journalism programs. You can start by reviewing their course offerings, faculty expertise, and alumni success to determine which university aligns with your interests. For social work or NGO-related careers, universities like University of Toronto, McGill University, and York University offer excellent programs in social work, community health, and humanitarian studies. These programs can prepare you to help others in a more direct, actionable way, whether through social work, nonprofit organizations, or international aid. Many universities in Canada allow you to check specific program curriculums on their websites, so start by reading the program descriptions and making a list of the universities that resonate with you. University websites like University of Toronto (www.utoronto.ca) and McGill University (www.mcgill.ca) are great places to start your research.
Hanna, moving to a new country, especially one with a different cultural context, can be overwhelming. Canada is culturally diverse, and adjusting to the new environment may take time. Before arriving, try to familiarize yourself with Canadian culture and societal norms. This could include understanding Canadian values of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for different cultures. Learn about the local culture: Understanding cultural norms, how people interact in Canada, and what to expect in social settings will help you settle in faster. Websites like Canada Immigration (www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html) offer resources for newcomers, including tips on how to adjust and thrive in Canadian society. Connect with local communities: Many cities in Canada have support systems for international students. Check for local Pakistani or international student groups at the university you’re considering, as these groups can provide a sense of community and support. Many student unions or cultural associations organize events to welcome newcomers and help them integrate.
It’s inspiring that you want to help others, especially given your background in medicine. There are many ways you can combine your desire to help people with a career in journalism. You might consider areas such as health journalism, social impact reporting, or writing about healthcare systems—these areas will allow you to use your medical background while raising awareness about critical social issues. You could explore public health journalism or NGO reporting, where you would report on issues related to human rights, healthcare, or social justice. These roles often involve writing articles, conducting interviews, and bringing attention to issues that affect vulnerable populations. If you’re passionate about direct help, consider studying public health or social work alongside journalism. This combination could prepare you for a role where you can report on critical issues while also being involved in real-world solutions through NGOs or community-based work. Here is a tip, look into programs like Master of Public Health (MPH), which some universities offer in conjunction with communication programs. These multidisciplinary programs can allow you to address health issues through a media lens while helping people on the ground.
Hanna, since you have a background in medicine, it’s possible that you could pursue a career that combines healthcare with social impact. Healthcare journalism, global health, and medical outreach programs are all fields where your medical knowledge can be invaluable. Canadian universities like McMaster University and UBC have global health programs that focus on improving healthcare access in underserved communities. You could also look into NGOs that focus on health outreach—many organizations in Canada work internationally on healthcare projects. Here is a tip: Explore options like Medical Journalism or Public Health Communication. Look at the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) for resources and networking opportunities related to health and journalism (www.caj.ca).
Beyond academics and career planning, you’ll need to consider practical aspects of your move: Visa and Immigration: Make sure all your immigration documents are in order before arriving. The Government of Canada website provides clear steps for student visas and entry requirements (www.canada.ca). Accommodation: Research housing options around your university. Most universities offer dorms or apartments for international students. Try to contact your university’s international student office to find out more. Finances: Plan your finances for the first few months. Research scholarships for international students through the University Canada website (www.universitystudy.ca) or individual university financial aid pages.
Finally, Hanna, continue seeking advice from trusted mentors like Dr. H, who guided you, and other professionals in your community. Networking will help you gain insight into the fields you're interested in and can guide you in making informed decisions. Joining online communities and LinkedIn groups dedicated to healthcare, journalism, or social impact can also provide valuable support as you navigate your career choices.
In Summary, preparing for your transition to Canada requires a combination of researching your academic options, exploring career paths that combine your interests in journalism and helping others, and adjusting to a new culture. Canada offers tremendous opportunities for both education and making a positive impact, so take your time to explore the many paths available to you and continue building a strong network of support.
Delete Comment
Flag Comment
Delete Comment
Flag Comment