CISM - Canada International Student Magazine

Life in Canada

workplace values and etiquette in canadian workplaces a useful guide for newcomers

Workplace Values and Etiquette in Canadian Workplaces: A Useful Guide for Newcomers

Starting a new job in Canada involves more than learning your daily responsibilities. For newcomers and international students, understanding common workplace etiquette, professional values, and communication expectations can make it easier to adapt, build positive relationships, and make a strong professional impression. 🤝 Understand Workplace Etiquette in Canada Workplace etiquette

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understanding land acknowledgements in canada a guide for newcomers

Understanding Land Acknowledgements in Canada: A Guide for Newcomers 

Land acknowledgements are commonly heard at schools, workplaces, public events, and government gatherings across Canada. They recognize the Indigenous Peoples whose traditional territories people live, work, and study on. For newcomers, understanding land acknowledgements can provide important context about Indigenous history, local communities, and reconciliation in Canada. 🌎 What Is

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from volunteer to professional building your future career

From Volunteer to Professional: Building Your Future Career 

Starting a career requires more than academic knowledge and good grades. For students in Canada, volunteering provides opportunities to gain workplace experience, explore career interests and develop professional connections. With the right role, volunteer experience can become a valuable part of a student’s résumé, portfolio and future career story. 🌟

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small talk in canada a simple guide for newcomers

Small Talk in Canada: A Simple Guide for Newcomers

You step into an elevator, and someone smiles and says, “Cold enough for you?” This kind of brief, casual conversation is called small talk. In Canada, it happens at school, at work, in shops and even between neighbours. For newcomers, a friendly reply and a simple question are usually enough.

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free fireworks at english bay celebrate summer lights on july 31

Free Fireworks at English Bay: Celebrate Summer Lights on July 31

Looking for a free summer activity in Vancouver? Summer Lights in English Bay will bring fireworks, food trucks and a lively waterfront atmosphere to English Bay on July 31. International students, newcomers and local residents are welcome to enjoy this one-night community celebration. 🎆 Event Details The event takes place

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academic honesty in canada why plagiarism is taken seriously

Academic Honesty in Canada: Why Plagiarism Is Taken Seriously

Studying in Canada is not only about earning good grades. Students are also expected to demonstrate honesty, responsibility and respect for the work of others. Academic integrity is an important part of Canadian education, and plagiarism—whether intentional or accidental—can lead to serious academic consequences. Understanding the rules early can help

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english phrases for visiting a doctor or pharmacy in canada

English Phrases for Visiting a Doctor or Pharmacy in Canada 

Visiting a doctor or pharmacy in a new country can feel stressful, especially when you are unsure how to describe your symptoms or ask about medication. Learning a few practical English phrases can help you communicate more clearly and feel more confident when receiving healthcare in Canada.  🤒Before and During

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college, university or polytechnic find the right study path in canada

College, University or Polytechnic? Find the Right Study Path in Canada

Choosing a post-secondary school in Canada can feel confusing, especially when institutions use names such as college, university, and polytechnic. Although all three can provide valuable education and career opportunities, they differ in their teaching style, program options, learning environment, and career focus. The best choice depends on your academic

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important id documents in bc

Important ID Documents in BC: What Newcomers Should Know

Starting life in British Columbia means more than finding a place to live or beginning school—it also means making sure you have the right identification documents. Whether you’re opening a bank account, accessing healthcare, applying for a driver’s licence, or verifying your identity, having the correct BC-issued ID is essential.

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celebrating mother’s day in canada 2026

Celebrating Mother’s Day in Canada 2026

Mother’s Day 2026 in Canada will be celebrated on Sunday, May 10, 2026 — the second Sunday of May each year, a tradition shared with many countries around the world. Although it is not an official federal holiday, most Canadians observe it as a special day to honour mothers and

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tulip season in bc 2026 don’t miss these stunning spring festivals

Tulip Season in BC 2026: Don’t Miss These Stunning Spring Festivals

British Columbia’s spring calendar blossoms into color each year when tulip fields burst into full bloom across the Fraser Valley. From vibrant flower farms to family-friendly events, BC’s tulip festivals attract locals and visitors alike with sweeping fields, beautiful photo opportunities, and a chance to welcome the season. For 2026,

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what is good friday understanding the heart of holy week

What Is Good Friday? Understanding the Heart of Holy Week

Across Canada, the Friday before Easter is a statutory holiday. Schools close, many businesses shut their doors, and a quiet settles over cities from Vancouver to Halifax. But for millions of Christians around the world—including many of your classmates, professors, and neighbours—this day carries profound spiritual significance. Good Friday marks

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