Iris from China

Meet Iris!

She is in the Tourism – Marketing and Product Development program and comes from Mianyang, Sichuan, China (the giant panda’s hometown).

She bravely arrived in Barrie, alone, in February 2016 to complete her high school education. After she graduates from Georgian she hopes to get a job in Alberta or another Canadian province so she can explore more of Canada. She did her co-op work term in Banff, Alberta.

Outside of class time she participates in the Peer Mentor program and volunteers at the Barrie Public Library. She has also volunteered for numerous Georgian events and works as an airport greeter for the International Centre.

We asked Iris some questions about her experience in Canada and how it compares to her hometown of Sichuan, China:

Do you celebrate Chinese New Year?

Yes I do! Even when I am in Canada, I still meet with Chinese friends and we have a big meal together.

Describe what you do to celebrate Chinese New Year.

I cook hot pot (traditional Sichuan food) and maybe some dumplings, most importantly, spend time with friends and video chat with family in China.

What does marriage or courtship look like in your home country?

Marriage is holy and one of the most important things for Chinese people, and traditional marriage could be lasting quite long and gets very interesting.

Tell me something unique/different about yourself that you’d like to share?

I love travelling, photography, food and languages, especially Spanish.

What surprised you the most about Canada/Georgian when you got here?

I was surprised by how friendly Canadian people are, and they are always respectful and kind.

Did you know anyone or come with anyone when you arrived?

I came alone and I didn’t know anyone before I came except my host family, but we never spoke before I arrived.

What has been the most challenging thing since you arrived?

Language and food. Communication is the most important but when I can’t express myself clearly, people can’t understand me.

Tell us what an average weekday looked like for you in your home town?

I was still in high school before I came to Canada. My average weekday would be in school all day long, from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with a two-hour lunch break.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering coming to Canada, what would it be?

I suggest you make friends and don’t be shy to speak out. No one would laugh at you because you are brave enough to come here.