Fluent success: Learning English has boosted Anastasiia’s confidence, personally and professionally, in Canada

Soon after arriving in Canada in 2022, Anastasiia decided to learn English to create more opportunities for herself. She signed up for Adapted LINC classes with Collège Boréal, which helped her immensely both professionally and personally. Not only has improving her English skills led to making friends in Canada and going about her daily life, but it also means she’s able to do her job better.

In this article, she talks about why newcomers need to learn English to unlock more opportunities in Canada, and her plans to learn French – Canada’s other official language – in future as well.

• Name: Anastasiia Parkhomenko
• Country of origin: Ukraine
• Arrival in Canada: December 2022
• Currently lives in Timmins, Ontario
• Occupation: Gymnastics instructor

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you first arrived in Canada?

It’s a mistake to consume too many social media posts about what’s happening in Canada because then it sinks into you. I say this because I became so worried about how to find a job. Everybody said there were no jobs for coaches in Canada and that I would only work as a cleaner.

But in Canada, if you showcase your knowledge about your profession to people and find a way to move forward, then you succeed. Canada is the best country for immigration, in my opinion, because it’s a country that has a lot of immigrants. This is a little bit different from what it is like in Europe.

What motivated you to enroll in the Adapted LINC/CLIC Adapté program at Collège Boréal?

I wanted to improve my English, and through the Adapted LINC program, my English will get better. It has helped me to quickly integrate into the country.

How has the program enhanced your confidence in communicating in English or French in social settings as well as in job interviews or at the workplace?

It has helped me understand the cultural programming here. One of the most important topics we spoke about is the importance of a cover letter. I did not know how important this was before I came here. We also learned about how to write a résumé, how to write emails, and how to speak in an interview…these are very important topics.

How did your interactions with program facilitators, coaches/mentors, and learnings during the program prepare you for your integration into Canadian society?

We have teachers from Canada who speak in the Canadian way. We speak about small talk, and it has helped me to communicate with Canadian people because where I come from, we don’t have small talk. It’s helped me to integrate, have friends, and make more friends.

Can you describe a specific moment or lesson that stands out to you as particularly helpful or memorable?

We have a lot of nice topics. For example, during our previous lesson, we spoke about Canada Day, so our teachers told me about why it began and how they celebrate it. They helped us to understand a little bit about the celebrations and traditions in Canada.

What opportunities – professional and/or personal – have come your way as a result of completing the program?

I’ve started speaking better English, so I no longer struggle with explanations, and this in turn helps in professional settings. I also feel more comfortable with the English speakers. I don’t need to take out my phone every time to translate.

Can you share any advice or tips for newcomers considering enrolling in language programs like Adapted LINC/CLIC Adapté to ease their transition and enhance their language skills?

I think you need to take language classes, especially if you come from a country where English and French are not common. Don’t think about it too much, just take them. I have had three good teachers through the school, because I passed two levels, and they are amazing. They correct you if you make mistakes, and they are very polite. It’s a really good place to learn.

Looking back on your settlement and integration journey, what are you most proud of achieving, and how do you envision continuing to grow in the future?

I am really proud of my English…it’s still not perfect, so I am going to keep working on it, but I am proud of how far I’ve come in the one year that I’ve been here.

I remember, when I first landed at the airport, I could only say maybe two or three words, but now, I can speak full sentences. When I finish my English classes, I would like to try to start learning French… I would like to know a little bit. For example, when I go to Quebec, I would like to order a coffee in French.

Can you offer any advice or tips for individuals who are considering immigrating to Ontario? What are some mistakes they must avoid or ways they can navigate the integration process more smoothly?

Learn English. This is the best advice I can give you. If your English gets better, you will be more confident, and your life will get better. And, don’t be scared to take the next step. Keep moving forward. For example, after my work permit, I have to focus on my PR, and then the next step. There is no time to dwell on what happened in the past.

If you live in Ontario and want to know more about English or French language classes offered by Collège Boréal, here’s more information. Spread the word!