Why study overseas?

I've just finished my first term here in Canada, so have been here for about 4 months. During this time, I've told people that I'm an international student about a billion times. I got many responses to that and quite a lot were to do with why I came here. I don't know what it is exactly (and I mean no offence when I say this) but people here are pretty self-involved. They don't know much about the world outside of their own and that just seems kind of ignorant to me. Don't get me wrong, they're nice people, and of course I don't expect them to know every culture in other countries, but it's like they only focus on their own. Maybe that was offensive.. OK honestly, it's probably a culture shock since I come from a country that is very multicultural.

Anyway, one of the responses I got when I said I was from Malaysia, was, "But Malaysia has a lot of good schools as well, no?" Yea, no. For those of us who can, getting an education abroad paves the way for a better future. It is a great experience as well becoming independent in a new country, but there are times when I have thought, if only Malaysia had a better education system, then I wouldn't have to move halfway across the world. Not only would it save a ton of money, I would also be able to stay with my family and friends. But then I wouldn't get to explore other cultures; I guess there are pros and cons to every decision. I just really miss driving around and honestly, the food as well. Before coming over, I was adamant that I would not miss the food, because I eat whatever and don't really crave anything. But...how I miss dim sum.

Just part of growing up I guess. Adapting to new changes and working hard for the future. I've been pretty busy these few weeks, been volunteering and stuff. I'm looking to volunteer in more places.

Here's a list of my volunteer activities:
Recently, I volunteered at an event in my university which was called PositiviDAY. It was hosted during the last day of term and was aimed at uplifting people's spirits for the coming finals. A very fun day and it brought a lot of smiles around. Stay positive people!

I've also attended a Greenpeace volunteer meeting, and will be attending these regularly as well as participating in any other events planned.

And March 29th was Earth Hour! I participated in a Lights Out Flash Mob, which was just us going around in pairs switching lights off around campus. That was a fun night as well. Many don't see the point of Earth Hour, but it's baby steps. If the world can collectively switch their lights off for an hour then it raises public awareness and we can progress from there. (I hope you switch off any electrical iterms when you're not using them).

So that about sums up the past few weeks. Paying it forward one footprint at a time. I was here, were you?