It’s been just over seven months since Tanvi Seth moved to Calgary from Mumbai, India. While this is her first extended experience with ice, snow and freezing temperatures, she “loves winter”.
Tanvi came to Calgary with her husband and daughter (a student at Connaught), when her husband was offered scholarships at several Canadian universities. Her husband is pursuing a graduate degree in public policy. The family choose Calgary (over Victoria and Kingston!) because “it’s so liveable for a family,” Tanvi says.
Life Was Tough in Canada at First
This is Tanvi’s first time away from her family, and life was tough at first. While her husband and daughter were at school, Tanvi was at home. In India, she was completing a doctorate degree in management while teaching management courses at university. In Canada, she began looking for work but found it challenging as her credentials were not recognized, a common issue for those educated outside of the country.
Volunteering Opportunity Arises
To overcome this barrier, Tanvi began pursuing volunteering opportunities. She came across a posting at Grace, walked by the church a few times – and eventually came in. Soon, she was volunteering while her daughter was at school. Tanvi now works in the office on a temporary contract.
A Trip Home (and a PhD?)
Tanvi is off to India next month for a family reunion – and to defend her doctoral thesis. Be sure to say ‘hello’ when she comes back (perhaps her name-tag will read Dr. Tanvi!)
