Guided towards leadership: How one international student left an impact on the York community
Haohan Gao’s first time in Canada was when he moved to Toronto from China to begin his studies at York University in 2021.
"I chose to study at York because of its strong emphasis on multiculturalism," he says, adding that Toronto’s diversity helped him settle in.
"We have a lot of culture here," Gao adds. "I’ve found there's so many Chinese restaurants near where I live. It helps remind me of my hometown. I don’t feel as lonely because I can find something from my hometown, here."
As Gao, an economics student, initially began classes during the pandemic when courses were largely online, he reached out to an academic advisor for advice to feel more motivated in his studies and stay on track. He says that his advisor’s support helped him improve his academic performance and adjust to life in Canada.
"She didn’t just think of me as a student," Gao says. "She was very caring and curious about how I was doing, and she not only asked me about my life on campus but also life in Toronto."
“This was very important, because even though I have a connection with my parents back in China, I don’t have any relatives here,” Gao adds. “Her impact on my experience at York has been transformative.”
Advisors at York support and empower students throughout their academic journey. They can provide guidance on many aspects of student life, from degree requirements to study permit information and more.
“My advisor provided emotional support and encouragement, helping me regain confidence and a sense of direction.” Gao says. “Her dedication and understanding have been a vital resource for me at York.”
Celebrating and sharing culture within the York community
In an effort to meet others and make new friends, Gao began volunteering with York International (YI). He says their Coffee Break initiative, a weekly space for international students to meet and spend time together, was a great environment for him to practice English.
"You can also learn other students’ culture, because we have a lot of international students from all over the world at York," he says. "At Coffee Breaks, they can share their own experience, their perspective and also their culture."
"No matter if you are an international student, the York community welcomes you."
Gao is also actively involved in The Chinese Students and Scholars Association, which helps Chinese students adapt to life at York and share Chinese culture with others.
"It's a club where we can share our traditions with other students at York; we wanted to be the bridge between York and Chinese culture," Gao says.
After nearly three years with the association and serving as their president in his final year, Gao says his initial interest of joining a club to make friends grew into a passion for helping others.
"As a member of YI and a key leader in my student association, I successfully organized events that brought people together and fostered a sense of community,” he says. “Each event’s success felt like a significant achievement, as it not only showcased the hard work of my team but also allowed me to grow as an organizer and leader.”
Gao adds that students who are hesitant about taking the leap to join a club or meet others should feel excited to do so.
"The first step will always be the most difficult step," he says. "Some people may be shy to find a community, but if you don’t try, you won't know what’s going to happen, what kind of person you can be and what you can achieve in the future."
Connect with York University