As I write this post, I'm sitting in my Montreal apartment, reflecting on what has been one of the most transformative periods of my life. My first semester at McGill University has officially come to an end, and I can't help but feel a mixture of pride, gratitude, and excitement for what lies ahead.
The Beginning: A Leap of Faith
Moving to Montreal wasn't just a change of location—it was stepping into a completely new world. Coming from Kenya through the WUSC-SRP Scholarship program, everything felt simultaneously overwhelming and exhilarating. The bustling campus, the diverse student body, the crisp Montreal air, and the weight of academic expectations all combined to create an experience unlike anything I had imagined.
"Sometimes the most important journey is the one that takes you home to yourself in a place you've never been before."
Academic Challenges and Discoveries
Introduction to Programming in Python
My first computer science course was both humbling and inspiring. While I had some programming experience, the structured approach at McGill opened my eyes to the elegance and power of well-written code. The assignments pushed me to think algorithmically and appreciate the importance of clean, efficient programming.
Front End Web Development
This course sparked my interest in creating user-facing applications. Learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript felt like learning a new language that could bring ideas to life in a browser. Every project was an opportunity to combine creativity with technical skills.
Mathematics Foundation (Calculus)
Perhaps the most challenging course of the semester, calculus reminded me that computer science is deeply rooted in mathematical thinking. The logical reasoning required for proofs translated beautifully into programming problem-solving.
Cultural Adaptation: Finding My Place
Adapting to Canadian university culture was an adventure in itself. From understanding the grading system to navigating social dynamics, every day brought new learning experiences:
- Academic Culture: The emphasis on critical thinking and independent learning was initially challenging but ultimately empowering
- Social Integration: Finding my community among such a diverse student body required stepping out of my comfort zone
- Winter Preparation: Nothing quite prepares you for Montreal winters, but the resilience it builds is invaluable
- Language Nuances: While my English was strong, understanding colloquialisms and academic terminology took time
Personal Growth and Realizations
Independence and Self-Reliance
Living away from family for the first time taught me practical skills I never knew I needed. From managing finances to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, every aspect of daily life became a learning opportunity.
Time Management Mastery
Balancing coursework, assignments, social activities, and personal well-being required developing systems and habits that I continue to refine. The Pomodoro Technique and digital calendars became my best friends.
Building Professional Networks
Attending CS department events, joining study groups, and connecting with professors opened doors I didn't even know existed. These relationships would later prove invaluable for internship opportunities and career guidance.
Memorable Moments
First Programming Assignment Success
The satisfaction of seeing my first complex Python program run successfully was indescribable. It was a moment that confirmed I had chosen the right field of study.
Montreal's Fall Beauty
Walking through McGill's campus during autumn, with leaves changing colors and the crisp air energizing every step, made me fall in love with my new home city.
Late-Night Study Sessions
While challenging, the collaborative late-night study sessions in the library created some of my strongest friendships. There's something special about problem-solving together at 2 AM.
Challenges Overcome
Imposter Syndrome
Being surrounded by incredibly talented peers sometimes made me question whether I belonged. Learning to view this as motivation rather than intimidation was a crucial mindset shift.
Academic Pressure
The workload at McGill is no joke. Learning to prioritize tasks, seek help when needed, and maintain perspective during stressful periods became essential life skills.
Homesickness
Missing family, familiar foods, and home comforts was inevitable. Creating new traditions and finding community helped bridge that emotional gap.
Key Lessons Learned
- Embrace Discomfort: Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Every uncomfortable situation became a learning opportunity.
- Ask Questions: Professors and TAs are there to help. There are no stupid questions, only missed opportunities to learn.
- Build Community: Success in university is rarely a solo journey. Investing in relationships pays dividends.
- Stay Curious: Beyond required coursework, exploring additional topics and technologies kept learning exciting.
- Self-Care Matters: Academic success means nothing without physical and mental well-being.
Looking Ahead:
As I prepare for more semesters, I'm setting ambitious but achievable goals:
- Deepen my understanding of data structures and algorithms
- Explore machine learning and its applications in bioinformatics
- Contribute to open-source projects
- Seek out research opportunities with faculty
- Maintain the friendships and networks I've built
- Continue exploring Montreal's rich cultural scene
Gratitude and Acknowledgments
None of this would have been possible without the WUSC-SRP scholarship program, which gave me this incredible opportunity. I'm also grateful to my professors who showed patience with my questions, classmates who became study partners and friends, and family back home who supported me through video calls and words of encouragement.
Final Thoughts
My first semester at McGill has been a masterclass in resilience, adaptation, and growth. Every challenge faced was an opportunity to become stronger, more capable, and more confident in my abilities.
To other international students or anyone facing similar transitions: trust the process, embrace the journey, and remember that every expert was once a beginner. Your unique perspective and experiences are not just valuable—they're essential to the diverse tapestry that makes university life so enriching.
Here's to many more semesters of growth, learning, and discovery at McGill University!