The current generation of Latino immigrants to Canada has different characteristics than previous waves. Most of us are professionals and speak the language. Having a bachelor’s degree leads us to have different priorities. We are not here to settle for less and we are not looking to simply survive. We are coming to countries like Canada because we want a better quality of life, we want a chance to realize our potential.
Our expectations are
different and sometimes unrealistic. Among some, there is an aspiration to keep
certain lifestyle. We've been accustomed to going out and sharing quality time with friends. We enjoyed long holidays and lots of spare time. Most importantly, we are used to
having the constant support of our family. All of this changes when you move to
a different country.
The reality is that,
unless a company recruits you, when you get here you are Mr. or Mss. Nobody. No
one knows you and your fancy degree is pretty much worthless, unless you prove
what you can do. This means you have to start from scratch, be open and flexible
cause chances are you will end up doing things you never imagined doing in your
home country.
Your first two or
three years in a new country, like Canada, will test your ability to adapt. You
need to work hard to make your way into the culture and the society. There won’t
be long holidays to share with your family, and there won’t be much spare time
to hang out with your friends.
My advice is to be
realistic, keep your feet on the ground because it is all worth it. No matter
what you are doing or how difficult things are, don’t lose sight of your goals.
It’s hard to leave your family and friends behind, to start from zero, to prove
yourself and others that you can do it... but it’s not impossible! It just takes
hard work.
