Kayla O’Mahoney went on placement in second year to Humber College Toronto, after completing her international work placement as a commis chef at Culledon Estate and Spa in Belfast.
I’m a Culinary Arts student at SETU, and I chose to study in Canada because it offered a unique opportunity for personal, academic, and cultural growth. The Canadian exchange programme allowed me to experience life in a completely different environment, exposing me to new perspectives and ways of learning. I was particularly drawn to the chance to immerse myself in a diverse and multicultural society while developing independence and adaptability.
Before I moved to Canada, I completed my international work placement as a commis chef at Culloden Estate and Spa. It was a challenging yet highly rewarding experience that strengthened my culinary skills, adaptability, and teamwork. Working in a professional fine-dining environment exposed me to new techniques and high standards of service, while also allowing me to engage with diverse colleagues and guests.
Adapting to cultural experiences
Moving from Ireland to Canada has been fascinating because of the cultural differences and scale of life here. Canada is very multicultural, with people from all over the world living and studying together, which creates a very diverse and open-minded environment. Cities are larger and more spread out, and public transport plays a bigger role compared to the smaller, more walkable towns and cities in Ireland. The weather is also a major difference, with Canadian winters bringing heavy snow and much colder temperatures than I was used to, which was challenging at first but has become one of the highlights of the experience. Despite these differences, Canadians are very friendly and welcoming, and I have found similarities in the value both cultures place on community and politeness, making it easier to adapt and feel at home.
Academically, studying in Canada provided a well-balanced course structure that enabled me to engage deeply with my studies while also exploring new experiences outside the classroom. This combination of learning and cultural exposure was highly appealing, as it supported both my professional development and personal growth.
Additionally, I valued the opportunity to challenge myself by living in a different climate and lifestyle. Experiencing extreme winter conditions and adapting to a new way of life strengthened my resilience and problem-solving skills. Overall, choosing to study in Canada was a decision driven by the desire to broaden my horizons, gain international experience, and enhance my academic and professional prospects.
I have made friends from all over the world, broadening my cultural understanding and creating lasting connections. We watched the Superbowl together, which was such a great experience. We are planning to travel together to iconic destinations, including Niagara Falls and Montreal, which will allow us to further explore Canada’s diverse landscapes.
New connections and experiences
I have also made friends from all over the world, broadening my cultural understanding and creating lasting connections. We watched the Superbowl together, which was such a great experience. We are planning to travel together to iconic destinations, including Niagara Falls and Montreal, which will allow us to further explore Canada’s diverse landscapes and culture. Another highlight, was ice staking at Nathan Phillips square and visiting the St. Lawrence food market, which is an indoor market, containing a wide variety of stalls, from food all over the world.
Personal growth
Moving from Ireland to Canada has really helped me grow as a person. Being away from home pushed me to become more independent and confident in handling new situations. I’ve learned how to adapt to different cultures and ways of life, which has broadened my perspective and made me more open-minded. Meeting people from all over the world has also been a huge highlight, it’s been amazing to build friendships with individuals from different backgrounds and learn from their experiences. Academically, studying in a new environment has challenged me in positive ways and improved my ability to work and problem-solve independently. Overall, the move has been a valuable experience that has helped me develop both personally and professionally.
Advice for other students
My advice to second-year students would strongly be to consider participating in the Canadian exchange programme. It is an incredibly valuable and memorable experience. However, I would recommend working during the first semester to save in advance, as flights and accommodation alone can cost approximately €5,000. In addition, the visa issued does not permit employment, so it is essential to budget carefully and bring sufficient funds to cover living expenses.
Although the financial commitment is significant, the experience itself is truly worthwhile. Living in Canada provides exposure to a completely different climate and lifestyle. For example, I experienced temperatures drop to -35°C, and snowfall can last for days at a time, so it is important to pack a jacket or two!
Academically, I found the course load to be slightly less demanding than at home, which allowed more time to explore Toronto and travel within Canada. This balance made it easier to fully immerse myself in the cultural and social aspects of the experience.
Overall, studying abroad in Canada is an opportunity that I believe everyone should experience at some point in their lives. I am extremely grateful that SETU provided me with this opportunity, as it has been both personally and academically enriching.
