Preparing for global success has never been easier — and Canada, with its diverse cultures, is the perfect starting point. Here, you could explore the European-like wineries of the Niagara Peninsula during day time and get a glimpse of Iceland in the Northwest Territories by night.

Then there are Canada’s world-class natural wonders. Virginia Falls roars loud enough to be heard from the wooded wilderness of Nahanni National Park. Whether it’s fall, winter or spring, Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site  captivates with its turquoise waters, lagoon systems, rich fauna and riotous wildflowers. The quaint fishing village of Peggy’s Cove and its wave-washed boulders beckon. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where the mountains meet the sea, enchants with its 950 square kilometres of rugged wilderness, the world-famous Cabot Trail and river canyons carved into an ancient plateau. The Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park is great for bird watching, hiking or just enjoying the boardwalk.

Throw in how open, safe and diverse it is for visitors, and it’s little wonder why the Great White North welcomes thousands of international students every year. For an academic journey of a lifetime, many choose Dalhousie University. 

With campuses in the oceanside city of Halifax and an Agricultural Campus in the town of Truro, this East Coast institution is home to over 20,000 students from more than 120 countries. 

What sets Dalhousie apart is how it uniquely merges the power of discovery with meaningful teaching. 

The opportunities students gain along the way prepare them to make a real difference across Canada and the world. This begins in Nova Scotia, a North American area with an Irish or Scottish feel, thanks to a rugged and atmospheric landscape occupied by friendly locals with Celtic roots.

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.