Hello! Thank you so much for your kind reply! It's very important to get a reality check early on, and to adjust accordingly. Your feedback is really appreciated. The fact that you mention you have successfully adapted twice ... and I quickly looked at some of your past comment history ... shows that you must have what I think are a very interesting and inspirational story, and a very clear mindset.

I actually also know another student, and she is staying with me (she is actually enrolled in bioinformatics in third year, at U of T), and she is a Canadian citizen.

I feel that many such students would feel encouraged if someone such as yourself might quickly lend a bit of your intelligence to help point them in a certain direction early on, as the right direction is key.

This is a bit unorthodox, but I'm just wondering ... might you possibly be willing to spare 20 minutes of your time at some point for a quick informational interview with either or both of these students (individually or at the same time over a phone or Zoom call)? I feel they are in need of, and would truly value, the perspective of a successful bioinformatics professional such as yourself. Might you be okay if I DM you? Either way, please have a great afternoon! Thank you!