The journeys were all different. Their destinations were the same. Eight students who chose to come to Brandon University from countries around the world have shared their trips in short videos — and now you can vote for your favourite.
Eight short videos, individually produced social-media style, are available online at BrandonU.ca/International-Videos. Ranging from about two to four minutes long, each packs an incredible amount of travel and emotional experience into a first-person perspective of coming to BU.
“Every year, I hear amazing and incredible stories from students about their extensive travel to reach Brandon University,” said Dave Rowland, Director of the International Activities Office at BU, and whose idea it was to request the videos. “The dedication and resolve that these students demonstrate — leaving their homes and their families, to travel so far for a top-notch education here at BU. They’re so inspiring, and I knew more people needed to know.”
While each video is unique and individual, with students providing their own take on their trips, they also have common elements. Students share their final days and evenings at home, saying goodbye to friends and family. Many spent multiple days travelling, with long flights and airport layovers. Arriving in Brandon and experiencing the impact of a Manitoba prairie vista in winter is stark contrast to the places students came from, continents away.
“One of my unexpected pleasures in these videos was seeing the city of Brandon, and the BU campus, with fresh eyes again,” Rowland said. “Their excitement and joy is genuine, and it definitely tugs the heartstrings.”
International students are a growing part of the BU student body, currently making up about 12% of the total student population. That’s nearly triple the proportion from a decade ago, when fewer than one in 20 students came from abroad. Due to visas and travel requirements, many choose to start in January.
“Brandon University is an excellent choice for International students. We offer a first-rate education, with plenty of options, and we’re an extremely affordable institution, especially when you consider cost of living,” Rowland said. “But as central as Brandon is, students literally need to go the extra mile to get here. That’s part of what makes their stories so compelling.”
Voting is open on the videos until 5 p.m. Central on Friday, March 11. The top vote-getter will earn a $1,000 prize, with additional prizes for the runners-up. Anyone can vote, worldwide, at BrandonU.ca/International-Videos, with a maximum of one vote per device.
If you’re a prospective student ready to start your own journey to BU, please reach out Ms. Iris Wang at wangi@brandonu.ca in the Office of International of International Activities to better assist you.
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Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.