Tips to Achieve Your Dreams Abroad
A heart-to-heart conversation between two immigrants. Host Charie Ilon engaged with Erica Nogueira, an immigrant from Brazil, and asked her for tips for international students and immigrants on how they can achieve their dreams.
In this episode, Erica talks candidly about her immigration journey from Brazil to Vancouver as an international student. her reasons for moving to Vancouver and her happiness with her life in Canada.
But before she was able to live her dream, she had challenges. Erica talks about the challenges she faced during her first two years in Canada, including adapting to a new culture and financial difficulties, how she found Vision2 Reality Foundation, and how that became a turning point in her life.
Career growth and networking
Erica discussed her experience helping the Foundation grow, networking, and making friends. She also shared how she stayed in her job at Surrey School Board and found the opportunity to grow further and work in the industry that she loves.
Tips for Living Abroad as a Student
Erica advises students not to expect the same standard of living they had in their home country and to be prepared for higher expenses than anticipated.
She adds that students must be patient, focused on their studies, and not prioritize leisure activities or travel during their study program.
Another tip is that students must focus on one thing at a time, keep their budget low, and invest in networking and volunteering opportunities.
In the conversation, the need for dedication, sacrifice, and adaptability while studying abroad was emphasized.
Envisioning Life in Canada
Erica is living her dream. She envisions herself in a bigger apartment, wants to get a house, start saving for retirement, and travel more. She realizes that she doesn't need many things to be happy and values a simple lifestyle.
Erica wants a future where she feels safe, can visit her family in her home country, and live a simple life with peace of mind, her plants, and her family.
