IMS International Community was featured in the IMS Magazine 2024 Summer: Student Life
Read the whole article here!
The Institute of Medical Science (IMS) at the University of Toronto is home to students from all across the globe. For international students navigating the intricacies of higher education far from home, this journey can often be a challenging one. The IMS International Community is a student group dedicated to fostering connections, providing support, and enriching the academic journey of international students at IMS.
Neda Rashidi and Fernando Montano are among the founders who helped bring the IMS International Community to life. Inspired by their own experiences as international students, they recognized the need for a supportive community amidst the challenges of navigating a new academic and cultural environment. Their vision was clear: to create a space where international students at IMS could find support and a sense of belonging.
“IMS International was born out of the shared experiences and challenges faced by international students. We wanted to create a community where no one felt alone in their academic and life journey,” shared Neda.
The group was established amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, a period during which a sense of community was needed most. Fernando mentioned that the loneliness was only intensified by the pandemic. “This group came at a very important time in my life. It provided a sense of community during a very big time of uncertainty,” he said, emphasizing the pivotal role of community during uncertain times.
Neda added that the pandemic brought with it additional challenges for international students— especially for those unable to return home to their families and those who moved here alone. “We lost touch with the world that kept us connected. Everyone was internally closed,” she shared. Neda emphasizes that this was the spark that made them realize they needed a space to talk about the problems that international students share.
Neda and Fernando, though no longer students at IMS, have left an enduring legacy through the IMS International Community. The founders remain good friends and continue to stay connected with the student group through its group chat. They both expressed satisfaction and content with the group’s current trajectory, and they hope the group will continue to run and support international students within the IMS community.
“It is something we created and I hope it continues to provide a sense of community. These are the friendships that last,” Fernando concluded.
Anna Mandel and Katie Göke, current members of IMS International Community, shed light on their roles and experiences within the group. Anna, the current President, highlights the inclusive and collaborative nature of the group, where every member’s contribution is valued. Katie, the Financial Director, discusses the importance of funding in implementing the group’s initiatives and organizing events to unite students. Both express gratitude for the connections forged within the group, aiding in their personal and academic growth.
“Leading IMS International has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s inspiring to see how our diverse backgrounds come together to create something meaningful,“ said Anna.
“Managing finances and planning student events for IMS International has taught me valuable skills in budgeting and organization. But more importantly, it’s allowed me to give back to a community that has supported me through my journey,” Katie remarked.
From its humble beginnings, IMS International Community has grown to become a cornerstone of the IMS student community. Anna, Katie, Neda, and Fernando reflect on the group’s journey, starting from virtual meetings during the COVID-19 lockdown that have transitioned into large scale in-person events. They take pride in the diverse range of events organized, ranging from professional workshops on career development to delightful international cuisine nights, where members savour dishes from around the globe. The book club stands out as a cherished tradition, having commenced since the group’s establishment. Here, students delve into selected books and engage in discussions to exchange their insights. Moreover, the group has embarked on numerous outdoor escapes, including excursions to Niagara Falls, Canada’s Wonderland, and hikes at Rouge National Park.
As IMS International continues to thrive, its founders and current leaders remain committed to its mission. Neda emphasized the importance of passing the torch to new generations of student leaders, ensuring the group’s continuity. Fernando echoed this sentiment, underlining the value of the friendships and support networks forged within the community. Anna and Katie express optimism for the future, eager to see IMS International continue to flourish and support international students at IMS.
IMS International stands as a testament to the power of community and collaboration in enriching the academic journey of international students. Through shared experiences, supportive networks, and engaging initiatives, the group embodies the spirit of inclusion and unity. As the IMS International Community continues to evolve and grow, it continues to showcase the transformative power of student-led initiatives that address genuine needs. The group has grown into a pivotal student group within IMS, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among international students.