I would term myself to be a “true West-coast Canadian” or “Vancouverite.” Now, you ask, “What is that? Is that even possible?” Of course, each person’s definition will be different, but there are likely some common themes that carry throughout. So, let me start by sharing a few things about myself…
I live, and grew up, on the beautiful west-coast of Canada, in Vancouver, BC and unlike my Canadian friends to the east, it’s not really that cold here. This year, we’ve had three “snowfalls” and that is a rarity in Vancouver. As a kid, a typical Saturday evening at my family home included pizza, beer and Hockey Night in Canada with Don Cherry. I grew up in a very multicultural neighbourhood and as a Caucasian I was by-far in the minority in my high school; which is where my interest in other cultures first took root. I’ve now evolved into what some would describe as a typical Vancouverite, or “Westcoaster”. What does this mean you might ask?
- I hate the rain. I love that it keeps Vancouver so green, but constantly having to carry an umbrella is annoying.
- I can’t tell what direction it is without looking for the mountains. Really, I can’t tell my north, west, east, or south without referencing the mountains. In just about anywhere in the Vancouver area you can see the mountains which is the only way I can tell where north is.
- I love yoga. I could walk around in my stretchy pants every day and think that this is socially acceptable because I could say I was going to or from a yoga class
- I love the outside. A friend of mine recently visited from Edmonton, Alberta (east and colder) and she said that the weather restricts her from going outside between October and May. As a Vancouverite, this confused me as Saturday morning hike (rain or shine) is a year-round activity for me.
- Reusable bags, organic, and free range. Of course, this isn’t only specific to Vancouver but on the Westcoast the environment and farmers markets are an important part of our lifestyle.
So why am I telling you these things about myself?
Don’t get me wrong, in no way am I saying it’s better here than other places and that I’m not interested in other cultures. In fact, one of my favorite things is to hear from students what they love about their home country and culture.
In my role as International Exchange and Student Affairs Coordinator, it is my job to welcome and greet new incoming exchange and international students to Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) and I feel that it’s part of my role to let students know about Vancouver. I think that sharing this information helps to better inform students and supports their adjustment to the Westcoast. As part of welcoming new international students to KPU, we plan a week long orientation which includes getting out and seeing the sites and city. Typically (and often dependent on the rain) some of our activities have included visiting the local market (Granville Island), frisbee and soccer at the beach (Whiterock beach), running through a corn maze (yes, a maze made out of corn) or heading inside for a friendly bowling game. It brings me such joy to see the students connect, interact and talk about their own countries as they meet new friends.
So when you come to Vancouver, I’d love to tell you about our lifestyle and I’d love just as much to hear about your lifestyle at home.