How did you hear about SISEC?

A friend of mine read the article in the magazine “20Minuten“ and told me about it. I liked the idea of combining sports training and learning English at the same time.

Did you plan a language stay before you heard about SISEC?

At first I wanted to go to the French part of Switzerland to learn French – traveling to Canada to learn English was not considered at this time. Then I heard about SISEC, and the offers convinced me right away.

What was your first impression of Canada and Canadians?

I was surprised about the city. Even though Calgary has almost one million people, the city seems small and comfortable. There are a lot of parks and trees here, and it doesn’t seem crowded at all.
The Canadians are very helpful. If I need help in a store or have to ask for directions they take the time to help and are very patient.

Was SISEC helpful in getting you used to your new place?

When I arrived here I felt a little bit strange without my friends and family and everybody speaking English.
But because Fred and Evelyn speak Swiss German, I felt like being in a big family. They included me in their lives and took me to various events. This was a big help to feel comfortable. I never felt alone.

There are always four students sharing a house. Do you think this is a better solution than living with a family?

I can’t really tell. Before now, I had lived only two weeks with a family. That was in Paris . But I’ve talked with classmates who have had to switch families because they didn’t get along with the first one.
I feel at home at the SISEC House. I have my own room and I am allowed to personalize it. I just have to get used to cooking (laughs).

How do you like the FOCUS International Language School ?

The teachers are very friendly and there’s a good learning atmosphere in the classroom. It isn’t like “school”. The lessons are active and creative and learning is actually fun.
It is great to get to know students from other countries. In my class, there are students from Japan , Korea and Russia . Our school events also give us the opportunity to get to know these people and their different cultures.

You are also here to play Hockey. What has this experience been like so far?

In Switzerland I played only a few times for fun. To find the right team out here for me wasn’t easy, but Fred worked really hard on that. Now I’m playing on a Woman’s Shinny Hockey Team and I like it a lot – even though it looks much easier than it is.

What has been your most positive experience since you arrived?

(laughing) ... Team Canada beat Finland in the World Cup Finals!
Before I came out here I had my ideas about how it would be. So far only good things have happened. I like being here and I feel very comfortable.

Is there something you don’t like?

As a big Hockey Fan, I’m very disappointed about the NHL Lockout. It is frustrating.