Nearly 300 international students were welcomed to campus for their first day of school at Northern College in Timmins on August 29.
The college has one of the most diverse student populations in the north, with people from India, China and Africa.
One student said studying at Northern College provides the opportunity to “meet new people and talk about what kind of a different life we have. We can make friends here.”
During the orientation, students met with representatives from various sectors of the community including: health, banking, housing and police.
“They come from countries where perhaps they don’t view the police the same way we as Canadians do, and they have to understand that here, police are to serve and protect, and they are basically our friends,” stated Audrey Penner of Northern College.
“There have been a few passing by that are not familiar with our 911 emergency call service in Canada, so I’m passing that along, and the other thing that’s really important to pass on is their location,” said Constable Bill Field, Timmins Police Services.
Police officials emphasized an importance on highlighting issues such as women’s rights and racism.
“Here in Canada, we place a high value on personal property, personal privacy, the right not to be interfered with, and the right to not be addressed in certain derogatory fashions,” said Marc Depatie, Timmins Police Services.
Winter is another thing many of these newcomers are being told to take seriously.
Northern College says they want all of their 3,000 students to have the best possible experiences while learning.
