Why I Chose Edmonton
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By Ada Tai
I came to Edmonton as an international student and was always asked the same question, “Why did you choose to come to Edmonton?” I usually joked with people and told them “because I love shopping and I was attracted by the world’s largest shopping centre – West Edmonton Mall!” Of course that is not the whole story. The primary reason I came to Edmonton was to study at the top-ranked Canadian university – University of Alberta!
The U of A is one of the best post-secondary institutions in Canada. It provides students with great programs, teaching resources, facilities and social opportunities. Through my time at the university, I spent a lot of time doing part-time jobs, volunteering, and getting involved in community events through university programs. These activities greatly helped me to get to know the culture and the society, and I gradually learned about the variety of working opportunities that exist for me here.
Working in Edmonton helps me adapt to the culture. I easily built good relationships with my colleagues and industry contacts. I was impressed by how friendly and respectful Edmontonians are. Compared to many of the foreign students and immigrants who struggle to find a good job or settle in foreign countries, I always believe I am the lucky one: I took advantage of the opportunity to settle down in a growing and dynamic city that offers great studying and working opportunities.
Living in Edmonton, I am never bored! I can travel to anywhere in the region, the country, or even the world easily. I also enjoy attending unique festivals and tradeshows. I still clearly remember how full I was at the Heritage Festival the first summer I was here because I tried 17 different kinds of food from 17 countries! Some friends have warned me about how cold and dark the winter can get in Edmonton. I always say it will depend on how you see it. When the weather gets bad, I enjoy doing indoor sports! It does not matter where I work or live in the city, I can always find a great fitness facility at a convenient location.
After working at Edmonton Economic Development Corporation, I feel more connected to the spirit of the city. I am now more and more confident to tell people the reason I chose to come to Edmonton. Initially, it was to study at the U of A, but as time went by, I saw great opportunities to work and live here. I finally bought a place in town, and sure enough, Edmonton has become my home.
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Ada Tai
Ada Tai is from Mainland China and has been living in Edmonton for just over 6 years. She came to Edmonton to study Leisure and Tourism Management at the University of Alberta. She works at Edmonton Economic Development Corporation in Human Resources and loves her job. In her spare time she enjoys swimming, yoga, squash as well as socializing and traveling.
