What’s buzzing at Lakehead University? A wave of approximately 350 new international students is arriving, bringing fresh perspectives and global diversity! The campus recently hosted a vibrant fair to welcome them, connecting students with vital community resources. Curious how Thunder Bay is preparing for this exciting new chapter? Find out more!

Lakehead University is set to embrace a significant influx of new international students, enriching its vibrant campus community and the wider Thunder Bay region.

This academic year, the institution anticipates welcoming approximately 350 new global learners, elevating its total international student population across both campuses to an impressive 1,600. These students represent a remarkable diversity, hailing from over 80 different nations, showcasing Lakehead’s appeal as a hub for global education.

To facilitate a smooth and welcoming transition for these new arrivals, Lakehead University recently hosted its annual Community Connections Fair. This essential event provides a crucial platform for international students to acclimate to their new surroundings and forge valuable local connections.

Held at the Outpost, the fair brought together 25 vendors and service providers, offering vital resources ranging from banking and phone carriers to information on local community groups and places of worship. This comprehensive approach underscores the university’s commitment to holistic student integration.

Among the many attendees was Davia Hastings, a first-year Master’s in Civil Engineering student who traveled from Jamaica. Hastings expressed her eagerness to explore the opportunities available in Thunder Bay community and gain diverse experiences, highlighting the fair’s importance in her settlement journey.

Despite recent changes in federal immigration policies, Lakehead University has maintained its strong appeal to international students. Krista McAllister, an International Student Services’ student engagement and cultural coordinator, noted that international student registration continues to meet expectations, a testament to the university’s robust support systems and welcoming environment.

McAllister emphasized the significance of supporting students in all facets of their lives, including their faith, by connecting them with various places of worship. She also highlighted the fair’s broader benefit, welcoming domestic students who might also be new to the area and require similar settling-in services, reinforcing the spirit of the Community Connections Fair.

“This is always my favourite time of year, welcoming them and helping them get settled in, and we’re very, very excited for them to be here,” McAllister shared, encapsulating the enthusiasm surrounding the arrival of the new Lakehead University cohort. The university’s dedication ensures a supportive and enriching experience for its diverse student body.