The Bridge
Special Issue 2001/2002
Student Services
The ISO Welcomes International Students to Concordia and Montreal
by Pat Hardt
Student Advisor
Of the 26,000 students enrolled at Concordia, approximately 1,800 are international students. Every year, the ISO (International Students Office) welcomes approximately 800 new international students from more than 110 different countries. While some pursue Undergraduate degrees, Masters or Doctorates, others come as exchange students for one or two semesters. Eventually, they all fall in love with Montreal!
Montreal—The City of Festivals!
Simply coming to Montreal is an education in itself! Voted recently by a number of magazine polls as one of the top cities in which to live, Montreal is a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis. It is relatively safe, not big enough to be intimidating yet big enough to have some of everything in terms of entertainment, sports, cultural events and, let’s not forget, those fantastic restaurants! Montreal is the Festival Capital of the world. There are hundreds of fun things to do, both in the winter and summer, and many of them are completely FREE!
Joie de Vivre—Come Experience It!
Concordia is an English university, but please note that French is the official language of Quebec. So, not only are you coming to a university with a very multicultural and diverse population, but you will also have the opportunity to experience the French language, culture and “joie de vivre” outside the University. You too may end up falling in love with seductive Montreal, as so many of us have already succumbed to her charms. You may even end up learning yet another language. Now, how’s that for an education?
The ISO—Here for you!
Our staff is warm, friendly, and always helpful!
At the beginning of each semester, the ISO offers small-group Orientation sessions which are specially designed to give you essential information and help make your adjustment as smooth as possible.
We offer a comprehensive compulsory Health Insurance Plan, so your parents don’t have to worry. Furthermore, Concordia has a terrific Health Services department right on campus.
Our staff can provide counselling and support for personal, academic, cultural and adjustment difficulties.
The ISO organizes Special Events. It is very important to appreciate the cultural richness and diversity of your new city, so every year we organize special trips to help you appreciate a few truly local experiences. Here is a sample of some of the special events we have planned in the past:
- apple-picking and a picnic in the country in the fall, Executive 2000–2001
- a ski-trip in the Laurentian mountains (including lessons) in the winter,
- a visit to the Quebec City Winter Carnival, and
- a visit to a “Cabane à Sucre” (Sugar Shack) at maple syrup-time in the spring.
Academic Success—You Can Do It!
In spite of the many outside attractions, academic possibilities at Concordia are endless. Many of our academic programs are highly recommended, classes are small, and there are fantastic academic support services to help you in every way. Of course, as the ancient Chinese proverb says, “if you find what you love to do, you will never work a day in your life.” In other words, follow your passion!
The CISA Executive 2000–2001
photograph provided by ISO
CISA (Concordia International Student Association)—Get Involved!
CISA is an international student association whose members get involved at the beginning of each semester in welcoming new students. Membership in CISA is free and the Association offers a variety of activities for international students and great opportunities to make new friends and enjoy organizational or leadership experiences. Joining CISA is an absolute MUST for any new international student.
At a CISA Wine and Cheese Party
photograph provided by ISO
The Immigration Regulations—Just Follow the Steps!
The reality is that it takes a bit of time, but if you read the instructions carefully, follow the steps indicated, and supply the necessary documents, the process will go smoothly. In a nutshell, here’s how it works. With your letter of acceptance from the University you will receive a Guide outlining all the steps you must take. If you follow the steps, and can prove financial ability, you will eventually receive all the documents required to legally study in Quebec and Canada.
Important: In accordance with government regulations, you must provide the ISO with copies of these documents as soon as you arrive.
The ISO Team
Claudette Fortier, Coordinator
848-3514
fortier@alcor.concordia.ca
Pat Hardt, Int. Student Advisor
848-3516
hardt@alcor.concordia.ca
Jenny Calder, Administrative Asst.
848-3943
jennyc@alcor.concordia.ca
Claire Beaudreault, Liaison Staff
848-3945
beau@alcor.concordia.ca
Virginia Bahula, Secretary
848-3515
virginia@alcor.concordia.ca
The ISO is located at:
1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. West
Hall Building, 6th Floor, Rm 653
Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8
For more information about the ISO, our services and publications , please check our web site.
