Kazakhstan, China, Zimbabwe and India – just a few of the 48 countries from which students will be traveling to start their educational journey at Trent University off on the right foot, participating in a unique orientation program at Trent International Camp in Haliburton, where they’ll enjoy a truly Canadian experience, as a means of introducing them to Canada and Trent University.

From September 1 to 4, 2016, a total of 180 new international students will be welcomed to Trent International camp at Camp Timberlane, one of the only university programs of its kind in the country.

“I am delighted to be welcoming over 180 new students from over 40 countries to Camp Timberlane in Haliburton,” said Dr. Michael Eamon, interim director of Trent International. “At camp, international students, living in cabins, will experience a mix of practical workshops and seminars along with quintessentially Canadian outdoor activities such as canoeing, swimming, telling stories and eating s'mores around the campfire. Sharing their diverse backgrounds and experiences in this manner helps students to forge strong and meaningful relationships with each other and the University.”

Trent International camp is offered to international students in addition to Trent’s more traditional student orientation, which takes place at the University from September 4 to 10, 2016. The camp is tailored to meet the particular needs of students coming from around the world. Students receive cultural learning, and are provided tools to fully engage in the breadth of opportunities Trent offers, before moving to campus and taking part in Trent’s greater orientation activities for all new students. 

“One of our main objectives is to help international students with their transition to Trent and life in Canada. Trent International camp is the first of several key supports we offer, spanning the entire student experience at Trent,” explains Professor Eamon.  

“Trent International camp is really your first impression of Trent, and it makes the transition so much easier,” said Juan Urzua, a third-year international student from Mexico who participated in Trent International camp last year and is returning this year as a camp assistant. “You meet a lot of people in one long weekend who end up becoming your friends and support group during your time at Trent.”