Written for incoming international students at Fanshawe College, this listicle takes a warm, first-person approach — helping new arrivals settle in faster with practical, insider knowledge from a fellow student's perspective.
The 5 tips
1. Public Transit Is Your Best Friend — The Fancard unlocks free LTC bus access across all of London. Combined with the Transit App for real-time arrivals, getting around without a car is easier than most newcomers expect.
2. Weather Can Surprise You — Be Prepared — London's seasons are unpredictable. The tip: buy your winter coat and boots before the first snowfall — stores sell out fast. Layer everything.
3. There's More to London Than Downtown — Springbank Park's trails, Covent Garden Market's food stalls, and neighbourhood pockets most newcomers never discover. Exploring beyond campus accelerates belonging.
4. Canadians Really Mean It When They Say "Sorry" — Politeness is cultural, not guilt. Embracing it — holding doors, saying thank you — goes a long way with locals.
5. The Falcon Shop Has Everything You'll Ever Need — Textbooks, supplies, and branded Fanshawe merch, all on campus. More useful than most students realise before they arrive.
Approach & craft
Each tip is anchored by a real student quote from a named international student, giving the advice authenticity beyond the author's own experience. Resource links are embedded throughout for immediate action. The tone stays conversational and encouraging — meeting readers exactly where they are emotionally before they land.
AI usage note
AI was used to help structure the piece and refine readability. All examples, student quotes, location details, and personal touches were customised based on real knowledge of London, Ontario and the Fanshawe student experience.