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#26 From Mexico to Alberta: Jacobo’s Journey of Study, Snow & Student Life 🇲🇽

  • Writer: Canada Student Network Podcast
    Canada Student Network Podcast
  • Sep 22
  • 2 min read

Moving to a new country to study is always a leap of faith. For Jacobo, leaving Mexico for Alberta meant not just a new school, but a new climate, new friends, and a new way of managing his budget.

In this episode of the Canada Student Network Podcast, Jacobo shares his honest experiences as an international student at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) — from managing rent and tuition to making friends and experiencing his first Canadian winter.

Man with short hair in front of a blue backdrop featuring a large microphone. Text: "Life on Edge, Jacobo Hernandez, SAIT, Software Development."

Getting Real About Money: Rent, Food & Tuition

Jacobo doesn’t sugarcoat the cost of living. Between 02:45 – 03:35, he breaks down his monthly rent, food costs, tuition fees, and the price of books.

“Budgeting is essential. It’s not scary if you plan ahead and talk to other students.”

Key takeaway:

  • Budgeting is essential.

  • You can save on textbooks by buying from other students.

For any student planning a move to Canada, these tips offer a clear, realistic picture of life in Alberta.


Building a Community Abroad

One of Jacobo’s favorite parts of living in Canada is how easy it is to meet people if you’re open to it. Between 22:14 – 22:42, he explains how he built his circle of friends by engaging in classes, volunteering, and joining student activities.

“Every challenge teaches you something, and the friendships you make here help you feel like you belong.”

Key takeaway:

  • Don’t be shy.

  • A friendly approach and willingness to participate can help you feel at home faster.


First Snow: Finding Joy in a New Climate

Alberta winters can be harsh, but for Jacobo, his first experience with snow was pure excitement. At 12:39 – 12:53, he shares how he had his first snowball fight and even built a snowman — a small but joyful milestone in his Canadian journey.

“Seeing snow for the first time was like being a kid again — we had a snowball fight and built a snowman.”

Key takeaway:

  • New experiences can make the transition easier.

  • Embracing local traditions helps you feel connected.


Lessons Learned

From budgeting tips to snowball fights, Jacobo’s story shows that life as an international student in Canada is a mix of challenges and small victories. By planning ahead, staying open to new experiences, and reaching out to others, you can make the most of your time abroad.


🎙️ Want to hear Jacobo’s full story?Listen to this episode of the Canada Student Network Podcast on your favorite podcast app or follow @canada.student.network on Instagram.







#26 From Mexico to Alberta: Jacobo’s Journey of Study, Snow & Student Life 🇲🇽

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