#23 From Colombia to Game Design: Juan Andres’ International Student Story at VFS
- Canada Student Network Podcast
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
Explore what it’s really like to study game design as an international student—from weather shocks to network-building, budgeting to making friends. Andres’ experience at VFS (Vancouver Film School) is refreshingly honest and packed with insights for students in Canada.
Facing Vancouver’s Cold: A Big Adjustment
Andres moved from Colombia, where temperatures are warm year-round. Vancouver’s winter was a shock:
“The first couple of months… from October to December was really cold. So it was hard getting used to it.”
He learned quickly to dress in layers and embrace the outdoors, finding that small walks and exploring the city helped him adjust to the new climate.
Tips for new students:
Invest in winter clothing early (jackets, hats, socks).
Spend time outside to adapt faster.
Budgeting and Cost of Living
Vancouver is expensive, and Andres had to get smart with his budget:
Living with roommates made rent manageable, especially near campus.
VFS provided essential gear like computers and game controllers.
Cooking at home saved money compared to eating out daily.
Bulk shopping at stores like Costco helped reduce food costs.
Budgeting strategically allowed Andres to focus on studies without constant financial stress.
School Life: Workload, Networking, and Balance
VFS’s game design program is intensive, but Andres found ways to balance work and social life:
The fast-paced program has short breaks, so weekend downtime is crucial.
Joining casual sports and student groups helped him make friends.
Networking opportunities included guest speakers, meetups, and industry events.
He even connected with a developer from Cyberpunk through school events.
Key takeaway: Balance is possible with planning and social engagement.
Cultural Diversity and Community
One of Andres’ favorite parts of studying in Vancouver was the multicultural environment:
Classmates came from all over the world—South Africa, India, Mexico, and Colombia.
Cultural exchanges happened naturally—sharing food, traditions, and experiences.
These experiences enriched both his personal life and his creative work in game design.
School Spirit and Fun
Beyond academics, Andres enjoyed student events:
New clubs like the soccer team brought students together.
Monthly socials, board games, karaoke nights, and holiday events made campus feel lively.
Events like Halloween costume contests and game tournaments strengthened community bonds.
Key Takeaways from Andres’ Story
Lesson | Insight |
Weather adjustment | Prepare for cold—layers and outdoor time help. |
Budgeting smartly | Roommates, cooking, and bulk shopping are key. |
Network actively | Clubs and events open doors for careers and friendships. |
Cultural diversity | Learning from classmates from different countries enriches life. |
Engage in school spirit | Social events make student life enjoyable and memorable. |
Conclusion
Andres’ journey highlights the highs and lows of being an international student in Vancouver. From adapting to cold winters and managing costs, to building networks and enjoying cultural diversity, his story is a great guide for students preparing to study in Canada.
Do you want to hear the full story? Listen to the Canada Student Network Podcast in your favorite podcast app.
#23 From Colombia to Game Design: Juan Andres’ International Student Story at VFS
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