Deseria Camarao
By profession, I am a science teacher, and before coming to Canada, I worked as a science laboratory technician. Canada has always been my dream country – a place where I hoped to build my career and future. Although my first overseas opportunity was in the Middle East, I continued to hold on to my vision of coming to Canada. For many years, it felt uncertain, but that long-held dream finally became a reality when the opportunity to pursue further studies opened for me at the University of Niagara Falls Canada.
I chose UNF because it offers a master’s program that aligns well with my academic background and professional experience. The admission requirements were clear and reasonable, the tuition fees were manageable and budget-friendly, and the staff were consistently supportive, approachable, and responsive to inquiries. These factors made UNF an ideal place for me to begin this new chapter of my educational and professional journey.
Personally, moving to Canada was not easy. I carried many doubts, fears, worries, and anxieties— from preparing documents and financial requirements, to adjusting to a new environment, culture, and lifestyle. Beginning my journey in Canada as a student felt overwhelming at first. Before arriving, I attended a webinar conducted by UNF, which helped me understand what to expect once classes started and how to begin life in Canada. The session also highlighted the basic support services available to students, which gave me a sense of reassurance.
Once I arrived in Canada, one of my earliest experiences at UNF was overcoming the fear of meeting professors and classmates from many different nationalities. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the professors were warm, welcoming, and committed to supporting students in their academic journey. They created an encouraging environment where I felt safe, motivated, and confident that I could succeed.
In addition, the UNF Student Success Office has been very active in providing support for academics, health and wellness, job opportunities, and volunteer experiences. The Student Success Office Staff and my professors are always approachable and ready to assist with any concerns. Their consistent guidance played a big role in easing my anxieties and replacing them with a renewed belief in my ability to reach my goals and complete my degree.
Over the past three terms, I have grown not only academically but also personally. As I prepare to enter my fourth term, I am deeply grateful for the full support that UNF provides, especially in helping us secure our internship placements. I feel excited and thrilled, and admittedly a little nervous, as I look forward to gaining practical, hands-on experience where I can apply the theories learned in the classroom to real-world practice as a data analyst.
During my time as a student, I have participated in various volunteering opportunities advertised on the UNF Opportunity Board, such as with New Student Orientation, the Birchway Niagara Book Riot, and the Alzheimer Society of Niagara. These volunteer experiences have been invaluable in helping me develop strong communication skills, interact with people of all ages and backgrounds, and build a sense of belonging within the community.
Currently, I am working part-time as a life support worker. What I enjoy most about this role is serving as a social skills tutor, where I help individuals learn essential life skills such as handling and counting money, interacting and socializing with others, performing basic household tasks, and shopping independently. I found this job through a recommendation from a friend, which reminded me of what Kimberly shared during one of our workshops: “Increase your network.” This opportunity came to me through intentional networking. That is, continuously meeting people, engaging with them, and building meaningful connections.
Moving to Canada was a major decision, one that required preparation in every aspect, including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual. Before making such a move, it is important to ask yourself: Am I able to endure different seasons? Am I prepared to face loneliness and being away from loved ones? Can I stay grounded during difficult or unexpected situations? Am I financially capable of supporting my studies? And above all, am I able to trust that things will work out amid uncertainties? If the answer is a confident “yes” to all of these, then you are ready to embrace the challenges of starting a new life in Canada.
During my first few months, I adjusted well to my coursework and academic requirements. However, finding a part-time job was truly challenging. Even survival jobs felt out of reach at times. In my second term, I finally secured a part-time position in customer service, which helped me gain experience and confidence. Shortly afterward, another opportunity opened up as a life support worker, a role I immediately accepted and continue to enjoy to this day.
My journey taught me that persistence is essential. Never lose hope when job hunting. Continue connecting with people, expanding your network, and submitting your resume to opportunities that align with your skills and interests. The right door will eventually open.
This testimonial was sourced from Edition 5 of Journeys, UNF's digital storybook. This edition explores how students navigate uncertainty, adapt to change, and discover unexpected opportunities that help shape their long-term goals and personal growth.
