Wanting to attend college in and move to Canada from the US?

Question

Hi, first of all I'd like to say I'm from a really small city in WI and am going to be a senior in high school. I recently have been searching for colleges and stumbled upon a few colleges in Canada that I think would be amazing. I want to go to school for either acting/theatre or clinical psychology. One of the colleges that I've found is in Toronto and I'm wondering if it's easy to move permanently into Canada after graduating from college there?

Also, is Toronto a nice city? I really want to go to a big city but I'm not sure how Canadians view Americans... Sorry, this probably seems dumb but I honestly don't know anybody from Canada and I don't know who else to ask about Canada. I also don't speak French, would this be a big problem in Toronto? THANKS IN ADVANCE!

Answer 1

One thing you have to know is that in Canada there is a big difference between a college and a university.  University is where you go to get a formal degree ... ie. BA, B.Sc., etc.  Some are McMaster,University, McGill University, Western, etc.  You can look them up to see what they offer and where they are. University requires very high marks in Canada.  A college is more practical where you learn specific trades.  i.e. computer programming, surveying, etc. where you earn a diploma or certificate.  Some are St. Lawrence College in Cornwall, Conestoga in Kitchener Waterloo, Niagara in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines, and many more across the country.  Entrance requirements in college are not as high as in University.  Toronto is a good place to get an education, but is expensive to live and you really have to depend on public transportation.  I suggest you speak to your school guidance counsellor and discuss Canadian options.  Good luck!!

Answer 2

The first poster had really good advice.  To add a bit more, Canadians are generally very nice, and do not prejudge Americans, everyone is taken on their own merit, so if you are kind and respectful to others, you can expect the same in return.  One thinking you may consider is contacting the college or university you are thinking of attending in Toronto directly.  If you contact the admissions office I'm sure they'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.  In terms of expenses, you can expect Toronto to be as expensive to live in as New York City, although if you don't mind a half hour commute, you can find much less expensive accommodations.  On the bright side, both college and university in Canada will be cheaper than if you attended school in the States.