Foundation Program

Web Developer and Cloud Integration Specialist
YWCA Hamilton

Alisa Teptiuk moved to Canada with a clear vision of what she needed to achieve to establish herself:

“When I came to Canada, I realized that to settle here and secure a good job, I needed three essential things: Canadian education, connections, and Canadian work experience,” Alisa explains.

Bridging the Gap

With a strong background in IT, Alisa took the first step toward achieving her goals by joining the Foundation Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs) at York University’s Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies.

“I’m incredibly happy that I found the Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEP) at York University. From the first information session, I knew this was the right path for me. I immediately registered and applied for WES diploma verification because I was determined to be part of it. I’m proud to call myself a York University student,” she shares.

The program equipped her with invaluable skills through courses like Professional Communication in the Canadian Context, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), and Jumpstart for Success.

“The quality of teaching was outstanding. The program covered everything from improving grammar and understanding Canadian work culture to enhancing technical skills in OOP I can confidently say that I became stronger, gained more confidence in my abilities, and developed a deeper understanding of Canadian politeness and workplace etiquette—a significant breakthrough for me,” Alisa adds.

Building Connections

Through the program, Alisa found a supportive community and built strong professional connections.

“York University provided numerous opportunities to connect with others through sessions, meetings, and collaborative activities. Whether it was during lessons, coffee breaks, break rooms, or group work, I formed strong bonds with many of my classmates, some of whom have become close friends,” she says.

Before joining the program, Alisa felt isolated in Canada, but her time at York transformed her experience.

“During my studies, I felt surrounded by friends, supportive people, and meaningful connections that extended beyond academics and into my personal life,” she explains.

Gaining Canadian Work Experience

York University’s program also played a pivotal role in helping Alisa gain Canadian work experience.

“The program connected us with job search coordinators, hosted job fairs, and organized alumni sessions where we could learn from their experiences. These resources equipped me with everything I needed to find my first job that met my criteria: close to home, permanent, full-time, in my professional field, and with great colleagues. In just three months of active searching, I landed my first job after one successful interview. I applied everything I learned at York—from formal communication and proper attire to preparing for common interview questions,” she recalls.

Alisa’s first role as a Python Odoo Developer marked the start of her Canadian career. She later transitioned to her current role as a Web Developer and Cloud Integration Specialist at YWCA Hamilton, a position that perfectly aligns with her career goals.

Looking Ahead

Alisa continues to strive for growth, with plans to pursue IT certifications and further develop her technical and soft skills.

“I am deeply grateful for the educational opportunities at York University. The program not only helped me build a successful career but also enriched my Canadian life, and I’m excited to see what’s next,” she shares.