Changes to work rules good news for international students
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Initiatives by the Canadian government to attract and retain international students address a long-standing issue for the University of Windsor, says Clayton Smith, vice-provost.~
The changes, announced Monday, will allow international students at public post-secondary institutions:
to work off-campus while completing their studies, and
to work for two years — rather than the current one year — after graduation.
Both changes come with caveats, however. Rules on working while at school are still to be negotiated between the federal and provincial governments. And jobs held by international students after graduation must be based outside the major centres of Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal.
"This will help all of Canada to attract international students," says Dr. Smith. "It is already perceived as a big step forward for us."
He points out that although international students are generally prepared for university fees and living expenses, they often underestimate their discretionary spending.
"They don't always factor in the cost of socializing with their new Canadian friends," says Smith. "Oftentimes, not being able to earn money here forces them to give up their studies and return home."
International student advisor Enrique Chacon says the value of work is more than just the money.
"It's a cultural experience for our students," he says. "Working alongside Canadians, the interaction with the community — it's part of their education."
Rohan Bhatt is a first-year psychology student from India. He says a job, even a low-paying position in a fast-food restaurant or discount department store, would ease his financial burden.
"I come from a middle-class family," he says. "Bringing in some money would be a big, huge relief."
Bhatt is not sure he wants to live in Canada permanently, but says work experience will help him find employment back home when he completes his studies.
Nameer Rahman will complete his master's in international relations this fall, and hopes to stay in Canada afterward. He says the rule changes are welcome, but are not a panacea.
"I think it's fantastic, but students are still faced with the same dilemmas in finding a job," he says. "It's even more difficult for international students in a tight employment market."作者: michael_z 时间: 2005-4-25 08:10:16