5 things I learned in first year as an international student
Hey! I’m Cammyn, a fourth-year international student from Singapore. Starting university, especially in a new country, is exciting, and it can also be overwhelming and a little scary. That combination of anticipation and nervousness was how I felt when I first arrived at Rotman Commerce in 2022. I had no idea about the people I would meet or how much I would grow, both personally and professionally. If you’re an incoming student, or even just thinking of applying, here are five things I wish someone had told me when I was in your shoes:
1. Build your support system
Orientation—whether it’s with your college or Rotman Commerce—is your first real chance to meet people who might just become lifelong friends. My best advice? Introduce yourself! Everyone is looking to make connections and are trying to find their community, just like you! Don’t be afraid to take that first step.
Student clubs at RC often run summer mentorship programs that connect you with both incoming students and upper-year students before school even begins. I found the First-Year Learning Community (FLC) especially helpful, as it provided me with a strong academic foundation and helped me find my footing socially.
2. Find and maintain a balance
While Rotman Commerce is a rigorous program, I’ve found that keeping a healthy balance between my academic and social life is what truly keeps me grounded and thriving. As an international student, I wasn’t just starting university; I was also embarking on a new chapter of my life in a completely new city.
Take the time to explore Toronto! Visit different neighbourhoods, discover cosy cafés, and attend events around campus and the city. RC Student Life runs events and programs year-round to help you get involved (check out their guide). Beyond RC, U of T has hundreds of clubs you can explore. As a Formula One fan, I joined the U of T Formula Racing Team, which has been a highlight of my time here. It is easy to get caught up in assignments and deadlines, but don’t forget to enjoy the university experience outside the classroom.
3. Make the most out of RC resources
Take advantage of the many resources Rotman Commerce has to offer. From career workshops and panel discussions to networking events, there are countless opportunities to help you learn and grow outside the classroom. As an international student, I also found the International Student Immigration Advisor helpful. Whether it was about study permits or general guidance, they helped make these processes feel more doable and less stressful.
The Centre for Professional Skills (CPS) is another valuable resource. In my first year, working with a teamwork mentor during a group project helped me improve my communication and collaboration skills. CPS also offers support in areas such as writing and presentation, which are essential in both academic and professional settings.
4. Choose your electives wisely
Electives are one of the most flexible parts of your degree, giving you the freedom to choose what you want to learn and explore interests beyond the realm of business. I’ve always been fascinated by biology, so I decided to take several biology-related courses as my electives. These classes offered a refreshing contrast to my Rotman Commerce courses and challenged me to think critically in new and unexpected ways.
Electives can expose you to new perspectives and add depth to your RC experience. Take advantage of that flexibility early. You never know, you might just discover a new interest along the way.
5. Embrace your own journey!
When I first started at RC, I was convinced I would enjoy computer science, mainly because it felt like everyone else did. I enrolled in a few courses, thinking it was the right thing to do, but I quickly realised it wasn’t for me, and that’s okay.
University is the time to figure out what truly works for you. Along the way, you will learn, adapt, and grow at your own pace. In the summer after my first year, I didn’t have an internship lined up. I used to feel behind. Looking back, taking the time to rest and be with family was exactly what I needed to recharge for the new academic year. I did that this summer—check out my summer reset!
Your journey might not look the same as everyone else’s, and that’s completely normal. Take it easy on yourself! It is all part of the process.
By Cammyn Lim (BCom ’26) | August 18, 2025
