Two years before immigrating I visited Vancouver to attend a conference. Canada was such an amazing country that after returning to India I applied for my immigration.

After landing in Ottawa I realized it was not easy finding employment in my area of work. My Social Work degree needed to be recertified and this was an expensive and slow process. I was constantly asked for “Canadian experience” and not being bilingual in French put me at a disadvantage for employment in Ottawa.

I started with a "survival job" in a restaurant to pay some of my living expenses. This provided an opportunity to meet people, keep me focused and build connections in the community.  I worked in the evening and during the day I accessed the employment center and applied for jobs. My first big purchase was a computer with web access. This provided unlimited access to information and opened up job opportunities across Canada.

To better understand the employment market I scheduled a number of information interviews with community organizations related to my area of work. These interviews were most useful; I received some of the best advice that eventually helped land my first full time employment in Waterloo Region. 

Finding employment is just the first step in settlement, others include securing a suitable and affordable place to live, securing a driving license and insurance, accessing credit, and making good friends.  Settling in any new country or place takes time and effort. To succeed as a new immigrant you need to be resilient and adaptive.
 

I first moved to downtown Kitchener where I could walk to many places.  I was a regular at various celebrations and events held in the downtown.  This was a great way to get to know people.

I did not access many of the valuable settlement services when I landed in Waterloo Region.  I was too busy and trying to survive on my own.  Looking back, I realize that local immigrant organizations would have helped a lot.

At work I had a great group of colleagues. I think this was the highlight of my first year in Canada. This positive work environment helped adapt and use my previous work experience.

The first year of settlement in Canada is still a big blur to me. It was a huge change in all aspects of life. It has taken me several years to feel stable and confident enough to call Canada home. While there were lots of moments of doubt and frustration, and questions on why I immigrated, there were also happy moments of accomplishments and friendships to cherish.  I am now happily married with a lovely daughter and own my first home. Overall, I am very happy to be here.