Are you an international student looking for support? We’re here for you.
George Brown College recently increased the number of supports and services available to international students, including more one-on-one advising both online and in-person.
“We’re excited to have more international students on campus this fall, and we’ve increased the number of international student-focused employees to ensure everyone feels supported and set up for success,” said Melissa Gallo, George Brown’s Director of Student Engagement and Career Success.
We’ve added additional International Student Advisors to provide guidance on matters related to your experience at George Brown and to answer questions about immigration applications.
Our International Student Advisors are available for one-on-one appointments either in-person or online. The advisors also host virtual drop-ins and welcome students for afternoon in-person drop-ins (no appointment necessary).
Visit georgebrown.ca/international/current-students to learn more.
International Student Advisors
- Ali Agha: Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts, Centre for Preparatory & Liberal Studies
- Michelle Choi: Centre for Construction & Engineering Technologies, School of Fashion & Jewellery
- MJ Kim: School of Design, School of Performing Arts, School of Media, Community Services, Health Sciences, School of ESL
- Mariana Razzak: School of Computer Technology, School of Early Childhood
- Grace Yi: Centre for Business
We're here for you
We continually adjust, improve and expand the services we provide to reflect changing needs and situations. Over the last three years, we’ve made other upgrades including:
- Establishing a Manager of International Support
- Partnering with the iCent international student app to provide support and a welcoming presence for GBC students arriving at Pearson International Airport
- Working with community organizations such as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Service Canada, The Neighbourhood Office, Toronto Public Library and Morcare Insurance to deliver student workshops and information sessions.
- Creating emergency bursaries to help students cover unexpected expenses
“International students contribute so much to the George Brown community, and we value the perspectives and energy they bring to class and other college activities,” said David Begg, George Brown’s Associate Vice-President of Global Partnerships and Education.
“After what’s been a challenging two and a half years, we remain committed to adapting services to meet evolving needs and adding new student supports in a timely and thoughtful way.”
Other services available to international students
George Brown provides several supports for international students. They include:
- Career Services
- Counselling and Student Well-being
- Health plan offered through the Student Association of George Brown College
- International Student Advising
- International Student Ambassador program (volunteer opportunities)
- International student awards and emergency bursaries
- Tutoring sessions offered through the Tutoring and Learning Centre (TLC)
Make connections this fall
Student Success events
The Student Success team organizes a wide range of events, some specifically for international students, including virtual drop-ins with international advisors, and learning sessions on topics like financial literacy and time management.
These events are a great way to learn something new and connect with others.
And be sure to follow @gbcollegeinternational on Instagram.
School of ESL events
The team at the School of English as a Second Language hosts great events for both international and domestic ESL students, including outings, workshops and on-campus events.
Follow the School of ESL on Instagram to learn more @gbcesl.
Say My Name
We launched the Say My Name campaign during the Fall 2022 semester to ensure every member of the GBC community feels welcomed and included. This campaign provides a way for students to share the correct pronunciation of their name with the college community. Look out for student submissions on our social media channels.
Join a conversation circle
Practice your speaking skills and meet new people by joining a Conversation Circle hosted by the Tutoring and Learning Centre. Students can register online by choosing the “Group Conversation Fall 2022” category.
