Success Stories
“The ICHS modules covered numerous topics delivered in compact blocks that were easy to assimilate. There was an excellent balance between theory and practical application, between entertainment and challenge, which, in my opinion, is a great way to learn. I benefited vastly from doing thought-provoking assignments, receiving personal feedback and interacting both with the professors and with other students.
While further pursuing medical career, I was able to immediately employ the skills I gained in this course. I implemented new knowledge throughout the whole journey of validating my medical diploma in the USA, starting from writing a formal e-mail and a personal statement for residency programs, to conducting medical research. The program improved my communication, strengthened my interpersonal and teamwork skills, and helped me better understand social aspects of life in Canada, thus, contributing to my smooth cultural transition into Canadian lifestyle.”
– Adel Araslanova: Former ICHS Student and Dermatologist at Republican Skin and Venereal Diseases Hospital
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“The transition to any foreign country is tough. You have to learn to adjust to the language, the weather, the culture, and the lifestyle. Though my move to Canada was not my first experience living abroad, I really appreciated the transition ICHS provided, making my move to Canada as seamless as possible.
I came to Canada at the end of April in 2017. I was enrolled for the Fall intake of the diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) program at the College. I had no relatives, no mode of transportation, and no social network here in Ottawa; I only a vague idea of how I would get my life in order. I remember sitting in my first ICHS class being so grateful that we were discussing newcomer essentials such as opening a bank account, getting your SIN number, and preparing for the upcoming fall term. We even talked about the Canadian winters, and how to prepare! Not only did I learn what I needed to do, but how to accomplish those tasks.
Throughout the program, we discussed the intricacies of the healthcare system, OHIP, Canadian history, culture, and even the different attractions of Ottawa. In other classes we focused on medical terminology, communication, and writing skills. These were all great modules to have as we would never discuss what universal healthcare is, or the expectations of an academic paper in my DMS program.
Before moving I was hesitant about the benefits of ICHS as this was not my first time living in another country. But ultimately, I am grateful for ICHS as it provided padding for my giant leap into the unknown, helping me hit the ground running, and finishing strong in December 2018.”
– Hari Gopalan: Former ICHS Student and Specialty Technologist at CHEO