Alexander Kournikov
Graduate Niagara College 2010
Studied in the Hospitality and Tourism Management program. After graduating from university, he worked at BroadGrain Commodities Inc. as a Commodity Trader.
I arrived in Canada at the end of April 2009. The reasons were different: I had been interested in this country for a long time, always loved to travel, wanted to try something new and certainly looked at a combination of other factors, i.e. quality of education, employment prospects, career and business prospects, the possibility of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship in the country. For all these factors taken together, Canada and Niagara College in particular were the best option.
Studying at Niagara College was one of the most fun time periods I’ve had in my life. It seemed like another stage of learning, work, but everything was very interesting and fun. An international composition of students, from different countries and different continents, with different experiences... Of course, a lot of positive emotions. It was just a great time for me.
I keep in touch with the teachers, as well as, especially, with the international department. They helped me, and many other students, tremendously in terms of employment (Providing References). Strong support.
I am a permanent resident of Canada. I went through one of the provincial programs. When I received permanent residence it was very easy, however, now in terms of provincial programs the system has changed. At this point, it makes sense to consider either a provincial program in Ontario or go with a federal program such as the Canadian Experience Class.
I work in the commodities trading industry, specifically with a focus on grain exports. Right now, I work as a commodity trader with a main focus on procurement (grain purchases, capital market analysis, analysis of commodity markets in the world) - that's all I'm concentrating on now. I like my job very much. I meet new people every day.
Of course, the work is very promising. Working from different perspectives helps me feel comfortable. I arrive at the office at 8 am. I analyze raw material markets, check emails, contact suppliers, sign contracts, discuss prices. The most interesting thing is that I do not have a typical day: there is always something new, this is what attracts me most.
I am often asked whether it is difficult for foreign students to adapt to Canada. Don't think. Here everything depends on the person, i.e. you need to clearly understand why and why you are coming here. Naturally, at first it is absolutely normal to feel what is called home sick, when you miss your family and friends. The main thing is to understand that this is an absolutely normal feeling, and it passes quickly. It is associated with a change of situation and with the fact that your family and friends are far away. Canada is comfortable, safe, and has many prospects. Canada is generally a very interesting country.
For those who want to move to Canada, I advise you to believe in yourself. Just set a goal and go towards it. Absolutely anything is possible. When I moved, I left both a good job and a generally comfortable life, because I wanted something more, I wanted other perspectives, I wanted to see the world. When you move, you will realize that you have enormous opportunities for self-realization, and I am sure you will have a wonderful time.
Will there be stress? Most likely yes, but it's worth it.
And remember... “You can never cross the ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore” Christopher Columbus).
Translation: “You will not cross the ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore” (Christopher Columbus).
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