Thus began my journey to search for the perfect engineering degree. I knew that I needed to get out of my comfort zone — so I chose to apply to universities far from home. My hope? To gain an academic experience that would expand my mind, connect me with like-minded future leaders, and expose me to cultures and people different from home. 

I found all of this and more at Dalhousie University. Located on the East Coast of Canada, Dalhousie is a top institution that offers dynamic programmes across 13 different academic schools. It has four campuses in two main locations: Halifax, a diverse oceanside city full of opportunity, and Truro, a quaint countryside town for a peaceful retreat. 

I found Dalhousie to be my most affordable option whilst meeting a great many of my criteria: being one of the best in its region, having a great engineering programme, lots of opportunities, and one of the warmest winters in Canada. As an Indian used to warmer weather, the latter point was important — and Dalhousie delivered. All the buildings are connected so you never have to get out in the cold between classes!

Despite being so far away from home, I felt immediately welcome and comfortable here. It wasn’t long before I felt like I belong on this campus with over 20,000 students from more than 120 countries. We have the Dalhousie International Students Association, Dalhousie Indian Students Association, Dalhousie Hindu Students Association, Dalhousie Gujarati Students Association, and hundreds of other student societies where you can get involved.

For student Shivam Chauhan, Nova Scotia reminds him of a mid-sized city in India. “There is Halifax if you want the hustle and bustle of a busy town, and if you step away you get a quiet and peaceful area to work at your own pace,” he explains. “Moreover, Nova Scotia is beautiful, and Halifax is the perfect balance of natural beauty and human-made conveniences.”

Chauhan is based on the Sexton Campus, home to Dalhousie’s Faculty of Engineering and Architecture and Planning. He describes it as modern, beautiful and connected. Sure enough, this purpose-built campus is well-equipped, housing several classrooms, laboratories, a cafeteria, a gym and a Maker Space — Chauhan’s personal favourite. 

“We get access to several machines, like 3D printers, laser cutters, woodcutters, sewing machines, and more to make whatever we want!” he enthuses.

Dalhousie is well-known for launching great careers — including those of its international students. Initiatives centred around diversity and inclusion ensure this.

Each of Dalhousie’s 13 academic faculties builds understanding through excellence in teaching, but don’t let rigour fool you. Outside the classroom, there are over 400 active student societies and regular campus events for students to enjoy. 

Soon enough, they graduate, with many finding high-skilled jobs and later, permanent residence. They have the different skills and attributes sought after by employers today — as seen in how valuable they are in various organisations in various industries, from corporate, HR and business to engineering and IT. It's safe to say anything is possible in a vibrant country happy to host anyone with a dream.