Student Life

Aug. 27, 2026

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What Our International Students Say:

Gabi - (2025/2026)

My experience in the Pacific Rim School District became so much more than just an exchange program; it became one of the most important chapters of my life. I arrived in Canada hoping to improve my English and experience a different culture, but I left with a second home, a second family, friendships I know I will carry forever, and so much personal growth. I will always be incredibly grateful for all the love, support, and kindness I received from Deb, Marc, and every staff member at the school. Some of the moments I will miss the most are actually the simplest ones: walking into school, stopping to talk to everyone, laughing in the hallways, sharing stories, and always feeling so welcomed and cared for. My host family became so much more than just a host family; they became my family, and they always will be. Living in Canada helped me become more independent, more confident in my English, and taught me how people from completely different places can become some of the most important people in your life. I know I will miss the big moments, but I will miss the little everyday moments even more, because those are the ones that made me feel like I truly belonged there. I will forever be grateful to the Pacific Rim School District for giving me an experience that changed me and a place that I will always consider home.

Leona - (2025/2026)

My name is Leona (Germany) and I spent my exchange year 2025/26 in Port Alberni, British Columbia. For me, choosing the Pacific Rim District was 100 percent the right choice. The nature is fascinating and breathtaking with the lakes (especially Sproat Lake), mountains and of course animals. At the beginning, it's always kind of a crazy start. You live in a new family, know no one and need to adapt to your new environment for the time of your stay. I personally decided to stay for 10 months because I knew it was going to take a while to like 'actually arrive'. Also you get to experience way more fun events and try more things.

I enjoyed being part of the volleyball class, the track & field team and the theatre production. At first, you might feel a bit lost so I would say to feel less lost it's cool to get involved in various fields (sports, theatre, volunteering). That way you are also able to connect with more people and make friends. Earlier in my year abroad, I put some pressure on myself because I wanted to find new friends very fast which wasn't the best idea. Honestly give yourself time! I found my best friend in Port Alberni in December. My 10 months in Port Alberni helped me to get more out of my comfort zone, improve my English, and generally be more open towards new experiences, people and food.

I literally landed the jackpot with my host family. They were funny, entertaining, understanding and just what I was hoping for. We went on trips to Nanaimo, Tofino and Vancouver. With the school, I went on a one-day skiing trip to Mount Washington. I also went on two trips with the exchange program. I got to visit Victoria, the capital of BC, and go surfing in Tofino.

Looking back, I didn't just spend ten months in Canada. I spent ten months becoming a more open, confident and adventurous version of myself, and I wouldn't want to have missed a single part of it.

Blanca — Spain (25/26)

Coming to Canada for my exchange year was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. At first, I was so nervous because it was a different country, language, and culture—everything was new. But I’m so happy I came to Port Alberni because everyone made me feel so welcome.
My host family became like a second family to me. I also want to thank my coordinators, Marc and Deb, who were always kind, supportive, and there whenever I needed help. Knowing I could count on them made this experience so much easier.
I have improved my English so much, made incredible friends from different countries, and learned a lot about Canadian culture. This experience has helped me grow in so many different ways.
I will always be thankful to all the people who made me feel at home, even though my real home was thousands of miles away. It never felt that far because of the kindness and support I received. I will carry these memories with me forever.

Emma — Italy

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to live on the other side of the world, far from everything you know? I have, and if you're reading this, you probably have too.
Now, a year after the beginning of this experience, I know the answer to this question. My life has changed so much. I met new people, I have new ideas, I know better what I want from my future, and I have the certainty that I can do whatever I want—because at 17, I packed my life in a 23 kg suitcase, took a plane by myself, and built a new life for myself in Port Alberni.
The Pacific Rim School District gave me, in 10 months, what my hometown couldn’t give me in a lifetime. I had the opportunity to grow and to know myself better.
Living away from home can look terrifying; trust me, I was panicking the whole month before my departure. But the moment I landed in Canada, I started living, truly living. My time there could not have been better. I wouldn’t change a thing, and I will always remember it with a smile.
It was not always happy. I had rough times, and I wanted to go back home, but I stayed, and now home is not completely home anymore. I have a second home and a second family on the other side of the world, and it’s the best feeling in the world.
Now, it’s your turn. Do it if you have the opportunity. It will be the best experience of your life.

THINGS TO DO IN PORT ALBERNI:

Come explore all that the Pacific Rim has to offer!

Click on the link to see all the amazing trails around us.

https://www.alltrails.com/canada/british-columbia/port-alberni?search=true

Stay safe when out exploring our wilderness:

Go with other people

Plan ahead and know the difficulty level and distance

Be prepared for weather changes, and give yourself an ample amount of daylight to return safely

Always tell an adult where you are going

COMMUNITY SPORTS AND CLUBS:

Skating: https://www.mountarrowsmithskatingclub.com/

Soccer: https://www.avsoccer.com/leagues/front_pagePlus.cfm?leagueID=0&clientID=4713&link=Plus