First snow a new experience for many International students

By Sagardeep Dhammu

BELLEVILLE – For many international students, a Canadian winter is a whole new experience. It is much more than a change in weather. It can be a moment of awe and adaptation. As Belleville welcomes winter,  students hailing from countries with warm and tropical climates step into a completely unfamiliar experience.

While some students were thrilled to see the snow, some saw it as a daunting challenge. From marvelling at the snow, to navigating icy sidewalks, to investing in heavy duty winter apparel for the first time, these students will have to learn to embrace the cold weather, one flurry at a time.

Meenakshi is an International student who came to Canada in May 2024. She experienced snow for the first time earlier last week.

Meenakshi – International Student at Loyalist College

“I have never experience snow in India. When I first saw the snow I was really excited to play with it. I wish my parents were here to see the snow as they have never experienced it,” she said.

When it started snowing the first thing I did was stand in it and feel on my skin but it was really cold. I didn’t feel that snow was real. It felt like a movie playing in front of me, like all white frosty blanket on the streets,” said Meenakshi.

“I was instructed to wear proper snow boots, snow jackets and coats, proper gloves, socks and caps so I don’t get frostbite as it is very dangerous. I don’t think I can buy much stuff, all I’m planning is to layer up before I go out so I do not feel much cold.” Meenakshi added.

Yuvraj Singh is an Indian international student who came to Canada in August this year.

“I think it’s gonna be a nightmare honestly because at first snow looks all nice and good but then it’s going to be everywhere. My elder brother is in Canada as well. He once fell at work and injured his elbow because of thin ice in front of the store. I think I will have to be very careful and not underestimate the climate. Nature is a powerful force you know. You should never underestimate it,” said Singh.

“I have already bought snow shoes. I think we should all invest in a good pair of snow shoes as they are the most important, especially for someone like me because I don’t have a car and will walk a lot in snow. When I got here I used to leave my house right on time and run to the bus stop, now I can’t do something like that or I will end up in the hospital. Jackets are also very important for me.” added Singh.

Adebayo is a Nigerian national, who moved to Canada in early September as an International student.

“I felt like I was in a dream. Snow always felt magical to watch on TV, but actually experiencing it was so joyful. I am thrilled to be here in Canada. I am not used to this kind of cold weather. I believe it is going to be very challenging. I brought a lot of woolen clothes with me so I can adapt to weather here. Experiencing this level of cold, I believe they are going to be very useful.”

Government Canada’s website weather.gc.ca can be used to check real-time weather and forecast to prepare for the oncoming winter on a day to day basis.