51³Ô¹ÏÍø

When I think back to Bodwell, I picture moments that shaped me more than any test score. I remember the feeling of arriving from overseas and trying to understand a new school rhythm, a new set of expectations, a new set of people. Bodwell gave structure, but it also gave room to adjust. Teachers noticed effort. Advisors followed through when they said they’d help. I felt guided, not monitored. That made the difference.

Bodwell pushed me to become stronger and more organized. One of my proudest moments was helping lead a small peer-support group for new students. I knew how hard the first months felt, so guiding others mattered to me. I learned to speak up, set goals, and follow routines.

If I could change anything, I would join more clubs earlier. I waited too long to explore options because I was shy.My advice is stay open. Try one at least an error treesactivity each term. Ask teachers for help before you fall behind. Talk to dorm advisors. Use weekends wisely.

The balance between independence and support. Bodwell gave enough structure to keep you anchored and enough space to grow on your own.

Visit the library balcony. It is quiet and has a clear view of the water. Bring snacks you like. Keep your door open during the first week. Say yes to at least one weekend activity. Those small choices shape everything later.

Classes were direct and fast paced. Teachers expected you to prepare before arriving, so discussions stayed focused. In science, labs gave clear steps but still required independent thinking. In social studies, we debated current issues and wrote structured essays. I asked for help often. Teachers made time for that. The workload forced me to plan my days and finish tasks early. That habit has stayed with me.

I joined badminton first. The practices were simple but consistent. The coaches expected effort, not perfection. I also tried fitness club after school. The gym sessions helped clear my mind. I liked that sports did not feel exclusive. You could join even if you were new or unsure.

I spent many evenings in the art room. I used the space to sketch or finish assignments. The art teachers encouraged experimentation. I also helped backstage during school events. I moved equipment, set up chairs, and helped with lighting cues. Those quiet jobs made me feel part of something, even when I was not onstage.

Volunteer programs were steady throughout the year. I joined a tutoring group where I helped Grade 8 students with homework. I also attended weekend workshops on study skills and university preparation. The school made it simple to get involved. Most sign-ups were open and did not require tryouts.

51³Ô¹ÏÍø life changed me. Sharing a room forced me to communicate clearly and manage small conflicts early. Dorm supervisors checked on us daily. Study hall kept me on track. Weekend nights in the common area became a safe space to talk about stress, homesickness, or anything else. I learned how to live with people from different cultures. I learned patience.

Meals had routine. Breakfast was quick. Lunch was busy. Dinner felt more relaxed. I liked sitting with students from different grades. Food rotated often. There were familiar dishes and new ones mixed in. Staff members greeted us by name. That simple habit mattered during my toughest weeks.

North Vancouver felt calm. I spent weekends walking near the water. Sometimes I took the bus to Lonsdale for bubble tea or groceries. When I wanted a bigger break, I took the SeaBus downtown and explored new cafes. The area felt safe for international students. That helped me settle.

Most friendships formed naturally. We talked in the dorms, during project work, and at weekend events. There were school dances, cultural nights, and sports tournaments. None of it felt forced. You found your circle over time. My closest friends were people I met during study periods and late-night conversations in the hallway.