Monday, September 20, 2010

Moving to Nanaimo

For over 2o years I have worked with students all over the lower mainland. One morning, I woke up to life changes, and I decided it was time to move to Vancouver Island and begin a new chapter in my life. The need to slow down a little from the hectic pace of everyday life appeals to me. I am excited to begin my new journey in Nanaimo, British Columbia.

I intend to work with students who live all over the island, but my focus will be international students who live near Island University and Malaspina International High School. I am also opening a new educational facility in the new year and I look forward to the many challenges that it will bring.

I understand the needs of international students because like them, I am in a strange new territory. What was familiar to me in the past is no longer my present. I lived on Vancouver Island years ago and the people are as warm today as they have always been. The weather is impeccable and the warmth from good friends is inspiring. When students arrive in any new town, they don't know where to begin and it is easy to get lost when you don't know the territory. The good news is that if you live anywhere in British Columbia you will find someone to welcome you and to help you find your way. International students from every country of the world live all over the island and communities and group associations are within easy reach. It may be a little intimidating at first but within a very short period of time students make a home of this wonderful place.

If you, like me, are new to the area one of the best ways to get comfortable is to take a tour of the city to get your bearings straight. Grab a local bus or a local train to get a feel for the lay of the land. There are numerous buses to take and most are circle routes, meaning that they end up back where ever you started. Join a "Meetup" group or create one online with a specific goal in mind. If you enjoy a particular hobby or you want to learn one, the meet up community is a fantastic way to create a social venue. I have met some really terrific people as a result of these kinds of groups.

Together we will get through the initial shock of living in a strange new place. But if you need a hand with your communication skills, I invite you to get in touch with me at my new number 250 797 9378 or visit my website at www.rightchoiceed.com.

Hope you are well,

See ya soon!
Cathy