In today’s increasingly globalized world, pursuing an academic career abroad offers both excitement and challenges. Dr. Barbara Borges, a dedicated faculty member at the University of Manitoba, shares her inspiring journey from Brazil to Canada, providing valuable insights for those considering a similar path.

For Dr. Borges, moving to Canada wasn’t initially part of her life plan. Amidst personal challenges, including a divorce, she found herself at a crossroads in Brazil. During this uncertain time, she received a life-changing opportunity—a scholarship from the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP), which awarded her $10,000 for a six-month stay in Canada. What began as a tentative step to improve her English and explore new possibilities quickly evolved into a transformative experience.

“I never planned to leave Brazil, but this scholarship gave me a fresh start. I thought, why not? At the very least, I’d return with better English and an enriched career,” she recalls. Her time in Canada opened numerous doors, leading her to continue her academic journey in a country far from home.

Dr. Borges’s path to becoming a faculty member was marked by perseverance and a willingness to seize every opportunity. She started as a PhD student at the University of Manitoba, working as a grade marker, teaching assistant, and research assistant. Each role built upon the last, culminating in her current position as a coordinator and instructor for the Population Health course at the Max Rady College of Medicine.

Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Borges emphasizes the importance of embracing new opportunities and challenges. “I took every opportunity that came my way. There were difficult moments, but I pushed through, and it was all worth it,” she shares.

Adapting to life in Canada came with its own set of challenges, particularly the harsh winters—a stark contrast to the Brazilian climate. “I never thought it was possible to live in such a cold place, colder than Mars sometimes! But life doesn’t stop here, even at -40°C. You still visit friends, go to restaurants, and continue with life as usual,” Dr. Borges explains, highlighting the resilience needed to thrive in a new environment.

Despite the frigid weather, she found warmth in the Canadian people, noting their friendliness and welcoming nature. “In Brazil, we’re huggers, and I found that same warmth in many people here. Embracing this cultural piece was really amazing,” she adds.

One of Dr. Borges’s biggest challenges was being far from family and friends. Building a new support system in a foreign country took time and effort, but it was crucial for her success and well-being. She also had to navigate an academic environment where English was her second language, which initially impacted her confidence.

“It was tough at first—not feeling confident enough in my abilities because of the language barrier. But with time, I grew into my role and found my place,” she reflects.

Dr. Borges offers practical advice for those considering graduate studies in Canada: “Be humble and open-minded. Learn the new culture, embrace the opportunities that come your way, and be prepared for the challenges.” 

She also stresses the importance of building connections with researchers in your field of interest, as these relationships can pave the way for future opportunities.

While her journey has been filled with growth and success, Dr. Borges acknowledges the complexities of making such a life-altering decision. “It’s important to think carefully about the pros and cons. Moving to a new country can be an amazing experience, but it’s not without its challenges, such as loneliness and being far from family,” she says.

Dr. Borges’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to pursue an academic career abroad. Her journey from Brazil to Canada underscores the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing new cultures, and staying open to the unknown. For those aspiring to study in Canada, her experience serves as both inspiration and a guide for navigating the challenges and rewards of building an academic career in a foreign land.