UofT’s English for Effective Communication Course Experience
When I landed in Toronto, I was thrilled yet slightly overwhelmed. As a newcomer, I wanted to sharpen my English and settle into this bustling city quickly. That’s when I stumbled upon the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies’ English for Effective Communication course. It ended up being a fantastic choice—not just for practical skills but also for easing into life here. Here’s my experience as a newbie in Toronto.
Why I Chose This Course
Arriving fresh in Toronto, I needed something to boost my English and help me connect with the city. UofT’s course caught my eye with its practical approach and the bonus of student perks—ideal for someone like me still finding my footing.
What I Got Out of It
TCard and Library Access
One unexpected perk was receiving a TCard (UofT’s student ID). It opened the doors to the university’s libraries—perfect for studying or simply soaking in the campus vibe.
Student Discounts
The course also qualified me for a Post-Secondary Student ID, which let me snag a discounted Presto card for monthly transit. That saved me a chunk of change on Toronto’s buses and subways. Plus, I scored 10% off at some supermarkets—a lifesaver for a budget-conscious newcomer.
New Connections
I took the course from February to March, a busy season for Japanese exchange students. I met many of them, along with some Koreans and Colombians (apparently, January had more Koreans). The group was diverse, but language barriers made deep connections tough unless you lucked out with fluent speakers.
The Course Experience
The instructors were patient and great at teaching real-world English skills—like speaking confidently or drafting professional emails—which I desperately needed in Toronto.
The classes were solid, but the after-class activities fell short.
With so many Japanese students struggling with English, they often switched to Japanese, limiting chances for meaningful chats. That was a bit disappointing.
How to Join
Signing up is easy: head to the course page, check the schedule and fees, and register online. It’s flexible and newcomer-friendly.
My Reflections
This course gave me more than just language skills—it offered a buffer period during my first month in Toronto. That one-month cushion let me adjust to the city at my own pace. I learned the ins and outs of Toronto, from mastering public transit to discovering cozy study spots. Best of all, I connected with other Working Holiday Visa holders who became my friends. We bonded over shared challenges, making the transition feel less isolating.
For newcomers seeking a practical start and a gentle entry into Toronto life, this course is a solid pick. I’m grateful I took it—it was the perfect launchpad for my Canadian adventure.
Special Thanks
Julianne Studio – Your Best Friend for Studying Abroad and Chasing Dreams!
When I first looked into UofT courses on my own, I noticed the price was the same as going through Julianne Studio. But the extra perks of working with Julianne made all the difference.
By signing up through them, I got to join the warm and welcoming Julianne family. Before coming to Canada, they held a pre-departure briefing that covered everything—customs tips, bank account setup reminders, and even an introduction to the airport pickup driver.
As a newcomer, I had no clue where to find good food or fun spots. But Julianne regularly hosts events and gatherings where I’ve met so many Taiwanese friends.
In our first month, my partner and I didn’t even know where to live—luckily, Julianne had a condo available for short-term rent (this isn’t always available since there’s only one unit, so you’d need to ask in advance if you’re interested). This gave us the perfect window to find our ideal place in Toronto.
I’m so grateful for all their help—Julianne Studio comes highly recommended!
