Bo Lyu

Even though I studied abroad when I was younger, immigrating to Canada with my whole family—and two young children—was still a big challenge for me. Everything felt new again, and I wasn’t sure how to start over, or where I truly fit. It’s why before ELT, I often felt unsure—about my English, about how to build my life here. Simple conversations made me nervous, and I didn’t feel confident in professional settings.

Over the past few months, I’ve met with Marcella and class at least 4 times a week. I want to thank her from the bottom of my heart—not only for helping me improve my English, but also for showing me so much about Canada: it’s beautiful nature, its deep and complex history, and its warm and welcoming people. She made me feel supported, seen, and never alone.

I’m also very thankful to Ryan. His practical advice on how to adjust to the workplace here gave me direction, and I’ll never forget the films and books he recommended—or the small jokes that made everything feel more human and lighter.

Thanks to ELT, I feel more confident speaking, more ready for the future, and more connected to this place I now call home.