#27 From Colombia to Vancouver: Juan’s Journey of Business, Balance & Growth

Moving to a new country is exciting—but also a little overwhelming. Classes, part-time work, and a whole new culture can feel like a lot to handle.

That’s exactly what Juan Luna, an Associate of Arts in Business student at University Canada West (UCW), experienced when he came to Vancouver from Colombia. In this episode of the Canada Student Network Podcast, he shares how he managed the challenges, built a new life, and discovered skills that will last long after graduation.

Adjusting to Life as an International Student

Starting over in a new country means learning everything from scratch—how school works, where to live, and even how to handle the weather.

Juan talks about how his first months in Vancouver were a mix of excitement and stress. He had to figure out tuition, rent, groceries, and books, all while settling into a new campus. His key takeaway? Give yourself time to adapt and ask for help when you need it.

Balancing School, Work, and Social Life

Like many international students, Juan had to find a way to juggle classes, part-time work, and a social life.

He explains how routines, prioritization, and small daily habits helped him stay on top of everything. Instead of burning out, he created a structure that gave him room to enjoy Vancouver while keeping up with his studies.

Managing Money and Scholarships

One of the biggest questions for any student is: How much will it cost to live in Canada?

Juan breaks down the real costs of tuition, rent, groceries, and books in Vancouver. He also shares how he earned a scholarship that reduced his tuition by 30%—a big help for his budget. His advice to other students: research scholarship options early and learn to track your spending.

Building Connections and Speaking Up

Moving abroad can make anyone feel shy at first. But Juan says that stepping out of your comfort zone is the fastest way to grow.

From joining student events to connecting with professors, networking opened doors for him at UCW. He encourages students to attend campus activities, volunteer, and have conversations—even when it feels scary.

Key Takeaways for International Students

• Plan your time: Create a weekly routine to balance school, work, and life.

• Budget smartly: Understand your costs and look for scholarships.

• Get involved: Networking and joining events can lead to big opportunities.

• Be patient: Adjusting to a new country takes time—give yourself grace.

Conclusion

Juan’s story is a real look at the ups and downs of student life in Canada. From budgeting and time management to building friendships and confidence, he shows that success isn’t about being perfect—it’s about taking small steps every day.

Do you want to hear the full story? Listen to the Canada Student Network Podcast on your favorite podcast app.

#27 From Colombia to Vancouver: Juan’s Journey of Business, Balance & Growth