International student success story: From Colombia to security management in Canada
For many international students, the path to higher education abroad is met with challenges, both financial and cultural. Geovanny López, a determined student from Colombia, exemplifies this journey as he pursues a Master of Science in security management at New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) in Vancouver, Canada. His story is one of resilience and adaptation on his academic and professional growth journey.
Choosing Canada for a unique educational opportunity
Geovanny chose to study in Canada to accelerate his career and professional options, knowing that he had limited options for advanced study in his home country. In addition, Geovanny sought to provide his family, particularly his children, with the opportunity to improve their English and experience life in a different cultural setting.
With a background in technical and sensitive security work, Geovanny hoped an advanced degree would enhance his career prospects. “I wanted to deepen and improve skills in my career that would allow me to continue growing and developing professionally,” he says.
Adapting to a new life in Canada
Moving to Canada marked a significant change for Geovanny and his family. “Migrating is a big change,” he acknowledges. The transition required adapting to new cultural norms and balancing the demands of work and study. “The positive thing is that I came with my family. I’ve had great support from them,” he says. Despite the hurdles, they’ve gradually adapted to their new environment over the past year.
Financial challenges and the search for solutions
Funding his education was one of the most significant obstacles Geovanny faced. “It wasn’t easy to get the money,” he admits. As an international student, he encountered stringent requirements and limited options from traditional banks. “It’s almost impossible really. Banks don’t lend, and I had to bring the money from Colombia at a certain point,” he says, reflecting the broader financial struggles faced by many international students.
Discovering MPOWER Financing: A turning point
The high exchange rate between the Colombian peso and the Canadian dollar compounded Geovanny’s financial difficulties. At the time, one Canadian dollar was worth approximately 3,000 Colombian pesos, making it a considerable effort to fund his education in Canada with Colombian earnings. Geovanny found a solution in MPOWER Financing.
MPOWER Financing offers tailored financial solutions for international students and a viable alternative to traditional banks. Geovanny found the application process straightforward and efficient. “The application process was very easy. I got a quick response,” he says. MPOWER’s collaboration with NYIT further streamlined the process, enabling direct payment to the university and alleviating the stress of managing international transactions.
A positive future ahead
Geovanny says his studies are progressing well.”I see my future well, I see it with optimism,” he says. He and his family are open to the possibility of staying in Canada, depending on job market opportunities and his family’s comfort.
Advice for fellow international students
Geovanny encourages other international students to study abroad. “My advice to international students,” Geovanny says, “is that they must have everything very well planned.” Preparation, he says, is key – from financial planning to understanding cultural differences. Adapting to a new country involves numerous changes, and being well-prepared can make the transition smoother.
MPOWER Financing: A recommended resource
Geovanny has become an ambassador for MPOWER Financing: “I would recommend MPOWER, yes. In fact, I’ve already done it,” he says, underscoring the positive impact MPOWER has had on his educational journey.
For Colombian students and other international scholars, MPOWER Financing offers a lifeline, simplifying the financial aspect of studying abroad and enabling students to focus on their academic and professional aspirations. Geovanny’s journey is a testament to the difference MPOWER can make, turning dreams of international education into reality.
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