From the Philippines to Canada: Journey of INSCOL Alumni,

Pursuing a career in nursing is a noble and challenging path. For Frank, the decision to move to Canada from the Philippines was driven by a dream of better opportunities and professional growth. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of determination in the face of significant life changes.

Why Canada?

Since 2010, Frank had been working as a Registered Nurse in the Philippines, specializing in Oncology Nursing. However, he saw limited opportunities for career progression in his home country. "Canada is known for the high quality of its healthcare system," he shared, "and I knew it would provide better career opportunities if I excelled in my work and focused on professional development."

When he discovered INSCOL in 2021, it seemed like the perfect partner for his ambitions. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the personalized support from INSCOL staff ensured his smooth transition to Canada, where he could pursue nursing programs and prepare for a brighter future.

Studying at Seneca Polytechnic

Arriving in Canada in December 2021 with his wife, Frank experienced his first cultural adjustment. Enrolling in the Nursing Leadership & Management program at Seneca Polytechnic in January 2022 was both exciting and daunting. "Returning to student life at my age was a big decision. Most of my classmates had just graduated, and the age difference was intimidating at first," he admitted.

However, the culturally diverse environment at Seneca proved to be enriching. "I made friends from India, Nepal, Singapore—it was eye-opening to learn so much about other cultures while pursuing a shared passion for nursing," he said. This melting pot of experiences created bonds and memories that made his time at Seneca truly special.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience

Adjusting to life in Canada came with hurdles. Finding a job while on a study permit was a particularly challenging feat during the lingering effects of the pandemic. However, Frank managed to secure a job within the first month through connections. "I remember arriving at Toronto Pearson Airport during winter and seeing workers doing COVID-19 swab tests. I thought, 'I could do that instead of hospital shifts while studying.' And I got the job!"

Even with a job in hand, the struggle didn’t stop there. The grueling 12-hour shifts, unpredictable bus schedules during winter, and balancing coursework with work-life demanded extraordinary resilience. Coupled with supporting his wife as she adjusted to her first experience of overseas life and harsh winters, he described these early months as "challenging, but blessings in disguise."

Building a Life in Canada

With time and planning, Frank and his wife were able to secure their apartment after staying with his cousin for a few months. His wife, also a nurse, found work as an optometric assistant throughfamily connections. While this job was not directly aligned with her nursing background, it allowed her a smoother integration into Canadian life.

"We had set clear goals for ourselves before arriving in Canada—starting studies in 2022, finishing two programs, and applying for Permanent Residency in 2024. Everything fell into place because we kept reminding ourselves of these goals every day."

Amidst the hustle of work and studies, they made sure to enjoy their new life. "We explored Canada on weekends—visiting Niagara Falls, Ottawa, and trying new foods," he shared. "A balanced life is key. I’ve seen others burn out from focusing solely on work or studies, and I always encouraged my peers to go on while remembering they’re here for a bigger purpose."

Achieving Career Milestones with INSCOL

After completing the Nursing Leadership & Management program in August 2022, Frank enrolled in the Chronic Disease Management program in January 2023. During his studies, INSCOL offered him an opportunity to work as a Student Advisor, a role he was more than happy to take on. "It felt great to give back to the organization that helped me get here. Talking to other students and sharing my tips motivated me."

It all started when Manpreet, his mentor and guide throughout the journey, presented him with an unexpected yet golden opportunity. "Hey, we do have an opening at INSCOL Mississauga, and I see you're a strong candidate because I have met you and know about you. So, if you want, you can work with us part-time while completing your studies," she suggested. Frank seized the opportunity without hesitation, working as a Student Advisor while completing his second program. His role involved supporting students enrolled in the Nursing Leadership and Management program at Seneca Polytechnic, offering them guidance, encouragement, and practical advice drawn from his own experiences. "It was fulfilling to be in a position where I could give back to future nurses, just as INSCOL had once supported me. I met students, checked in on them, and provided insights on tackling challenges. I even helped students from Niagara College with immigration-related concerns, getting a firsthand understanding of how INSCOL operated."

Balancing work and studies, Frank continued excelling academically, graduating with honors in April 2023. As he approached the completion of his program, Manpreet recognized his growth and confidence, encouraging him to handle his Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application independently. "You know the process now," she told him, affirming his capability. With that, his part-time role transitioned into a full-time position at INSCOL after graduation, further deepening his involvement in supporting international nursing students. He remained with INSCOL until mid-2024, advocating for students and guiding them on their journey toward becoming Registered Nurses in Canada.

The culmination of his hard work and dedication was his registration as a nurse in Canada after passing the NCLEX-RN in January 2024. Shortly after, he secured his dream job at Princess Margaret Hospital in the Leukemia Unit, one of Canada’s leading facilities for cancer treatment. "I researched the best hospitals before moving here, and I’m proud to say I’m now part of the team at Princess Margaret," he shared. He also received his Permanent Residency (PR) in 2024, marking the successful completion of yet another goal.

Navigating the First Steps in his New Job

“The first three months of my probation at Princess Margaret Hospital were quite challenging,” Frank recalls. “There were so many new things I didn’t know. The terminologies, procedures, and practices were all so different. But I believe the first steps in any journey are always the hardest.”

What helped him move past these challenges was a proactive mindset. “I made it a point to always ask questions, especially when I wasn’t sure about something. After all, I’m taking care of a patient’s life; that’s a huge responsibility,” he explains. “Over time, I became familiar with the processes. Now, when something happens with my patients, I know exactly what to do.”

A Supportive Environment for Growth

Now well-adapted to Canada’s nursing environment, Frank reflects on the professional opportunities that have enhanced his experience. “Being a nurse in Canada has opened so many possibilities. At my workplace, they encourage career growth. They tell me, ‘When you’re ready for a change, you can explore other departments, pursue research, or even train to become a Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator.”

This culture of growth and encouragement has been a game-changer for him. “Canada truly offers abundant career opportunities for nurses,” he added.

Work-Life Balance Matters

One of the standout benefits of working as a nurse in Canada is having a Work-life balance. “People often say the work hours are brutal, but I’ve found the nurse-to-patient ratio here to be incredibly supportive,” he says. “Sometimes it’s one nurse to two or three patients, and on certain days, it’s even one-to-one when patients are discharged early. This setup means reduced burnout compared to other countries.”

Reflecting on comparisons with other countries, he notes, “I have friends in the US where the pay is higher, but the nurse-to-patient ratio there is often one to nine or even one to ten. It’s just not sustainable for physical or mental health. Here in Canada, I feel more than happy and supported.”

Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Nurses

Reflecting on his incredible journey, Frank expresses immense gratitude for the role INSCOL played in his success. "I found INSCOL online, but they became the foundation of my transition to Canada. From helping me with the paperwork to guiding me every step of the way, their support was invaluable."

Frank shared some wisdom for nursing students considering their next steps. “At first, moving to Canada felt like a gamble, but it was a gamble worth taking,” he says. “I used to tell new students at INSCOL, You’re here for a reason. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so you must make the most of it. Grab every chance that comes your way because you never know how long it will last.”

He emphasizes resilience and determination. “There’s no easy path. Life is a roller coaster, and challenges are meant to test your strength and resilience. But each step you take brings you closer to your goals.”