Studying Abroad in Canada: Manon’s Experience at CES Toronto
Studying abroad in Canada is an incredible opportunity to grow personally and professionally. CES Toronto, located in the heart of the city, offers immersive English courses and a unique path through the Recognized Organization (RO) Program. This program, officially approved by the Canadian government, allows young adults to study and gain professional experience through jobs or internship. In this article, you’ll discover Manon’s real experience, from her first English class to her current marketing internship in Toronto.
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Can you introduce yourself?
"Yes, sure! My name is Manon, I’m 23 and I come from Paris, France! I’ve been living in Toronto since January, and I’ll be returning to my country in August. I’m currently enrolled in the RO program at CES Toronto.
I chose to come to Canada because I’d been dreaming about studying abroad for a long time. As I was taking a gap year, it was the perfect to come and experience life in another country!"
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What attracted you to Canada?
"I was attracted to Canada because it’s a very good destination to learn English with a big diversity, and lots of beautiful landscapes. Plus, it’s easy to travel to other amazing places like the USA, Mexico, the Bahamas, etc. Studying English at CES Toronto for four months was one of the best decisions of my life. The winter was taught and very cold, but sunny days are finally arriving and I’m so happy! Toronto is just perfect in spring and summer, with so many outdoor activities!"
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How has your English improved since you started?
"I came with a lot of difficulties to talk, I couldn’t understand people easily, it was a real challenge! After 3 months of English courses at CES, I feel much more confident when I speak, I can understand conversations and express myself easily now. Of course, I’m not bilingual yet, that takes time, but my English level has improved significantly, for sure!"
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How did you hear about the RO Program and how does it work?
"I heard about the RO Program through a French agency that advised me plan my trip abroad! I told them that I wanted to have a professional experience and improve my English as well.
I took care of the administrative side, with my official documents, applied on the official Canadian government website, and everything was good! It takes time but we’re well supported in all the steps of the file by the staff, they’re quick to answer any questions."
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Can you explain the RO Program to someone who doesn’t know it?
"Sure! The RO Program (Recognized Organization Program) allows you to study English in Canada (Vancouver or Toronto) while also obtaining a work permit. You start with 3 months of English courses, and after you can work or intern for up to two years.
To get a job aboard, it’s a little bit difficult because you need to adapt your resume to the culture! For example, here, in Canada, you don’t need a picture of you on it, unlike in France. I can advise starting your job search early, when you know that you’ll have your work permit, you can look on LinkedIn, Indeed, and I think even the CES school can help you in the research if you need!"
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What’s your life like outside of school?
"After classes, I love hanging out with friends. When it’s sunny, we love to go to the park, there’s a lot in Toronto, our favorite spot is Trinity Bellwoods! CES Toronto also organizes great activities thanks to Adriana, who plans a lot of fun events to help students socialize, have good time and make new friends.
During winter, we enjoyed ice skating at city hall, tobogganing, and taking walks to enjoy the different views of the city. Even though it was cold, the city remained beautiful!
I love to go shopping too hahaha , Toronto has so many cool shops!"
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What’s your current or future job goal?
"After finishing my 3 months of English courses at CES, I started an internship in Marketing with a Canadian company. In France, I study marketing too and, in the future, I’d like to work in customer relations within the hospitality sector.
Studying abroad has taught me a lot and has made me more open-minded and independent. This international experience is a great asset for my resume and my future career. Companies are really attracted to people who have experienced working abroad!"
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What has this experience brought you on a personal level?
"Like I said before, I really grew up. This experience has made me more open-minded, and I feel more confident, more independent! Meeting people from all over the world has enriched my experience. It’s very interesting to learn how other cultures are and share your own with them too!
Even though everyone has different English levels, communication was never a problem. Everyone is kind and supportive because we’re all here to improve together. I truly appreciated that spirit, especially when I first arrived at CES Toronto school!"
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What would you say to someone who’s hesitating to come study abroad and work in Canada?
"The only thing I would say it’s: don’t hesitate!! Coming to Toronto to study and work is the best thing I’ve ever done. I improved my English, gained professional experience, met amazing people from all around the world, and discovered a lot about myself.
Sure, I was a little bit stressed before coming, it’s a big step to leave your home city, but it’s absolutely worth it. No regrets at all, just unforgettable memories!
From learning English to learning about herself, Manon’s adventure is a beautiful reminder that studying abroad is much more than just school, it’s a life experience. Ready to start your own journey? Discover CES Toronto and live it too.
Want to know more? Explore our RO Program page here and start your Canadian adventure today!"
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