Discovering academic success and belonging all in one place
Second-year international student Fatoumatta finds community and home at St John's College.
Coming to Canada for her first year of university was a scary yet exciting time for Fatoumatta.
Travelling from Africa to pursue nursing, Fatoumatta started her journey off at University 1, where she found St John’s to help her academically and meet new friends like Hamidou, one of the St John’s Residence Don’s.
“Coming from a small place in Africa, I wanted a small community not just to meet friends but to succeed academically, and St John’s is that place for me.”
Being an international student, Fatoumatta felt supported on campus. As she got comfortable, she quickly found that diversity was embraced at St John’s College, which made her feel at home.
“It’s a welcoming place for everyone, no matter your background, who you are, or where you come from; everyone is accepted here. It felt like second home to be with the welcoming staff, endless opportunities, and academic support they provide to help me get through my studies.”
As part of her experience at St John’s, Fatoumatta has benefited from the scholarships and bursaries, which were more than just financial support for her and her family.
Receiving the Dance Memorial Bursary last year allowed her to continue building the life she wants for herself and her family, including buying fresh groceries for the holiday season and continuing her coursework to get into the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences.
Learn more about our student membership and its benefits on our website.