During her journey through the New Media Design and Web Development program at the BCIT School of Business + Media, Mori Saadati discovered more than technical skills, she discovered resilience, community, and a sense of belonging during some of the most challenging moments of her life.

After immigrating to Canada while much of her family remained in Iran, Mori began her studies determined to build a new future. Like many students in accelerated programs, she balanced demanding coursework with personal growth and creative exploration. But for Mori and for many Iranian students, global events would soon reshape her academic experience in ways she never expected.

During periods of unrest affecting Iran, students with loved ones overseas faced a unique emotional burden. Internet shutdowns and communication disruptions meant that contact with family could disappear without warning, leaving many unsure of their loved ones’ safety.

“It’s hard to explain what it feels like when you suddenly cannot reach your family,” Mori shares. “When communication stops, everything else becomes secondary. You’re trying to continue with assignments and deadlines while not knowing if the people you love are okay.”

Balancing these fears alongside the fast-paced academic environment became overwhelming. During one particularly difficult period, Mori experienced intense emotional distress that affected her ability to attend classes and focus on coursework.

Encouraged by faculty and staff who recognized she was struggling, Mori connected with student support resources and Accessibility Services. Through these supports, she gained access to guidance, counselling resources, and academic accommodations that allowed her time and flexibility to recover while continuing her education.

“The support changed everything,” she explains. “I was at a point where I felt like I couldn’t continue. Knowing that there were people who understood and were willing to help gave me the strength to keep going.”

Faculty members demonstrated patience and flexibility, helping her manage deadlines during a time when continuing her studies felt nearly impossible. Combined with the encouragement of her cohort, instructors, and support teams, this sense of community allowed Mori to regain stability and move forward.

Looking back, Mori credits the people around her with helping her finish her program successfully and achieve strong academic results. Today, her journey has come full circle she is now completing an internship with the Marketing and Communications department at BCIT, contributing to storytelling and digital content initiatives that support the community.

Seeing other students face similar pressures has inspired her to share her story, particularly for Iranian students who may be navigating similar challenges silently, as well as for anyone studying far from home without a strong local support system.

“The reality is that many students move here alone, without family or familiar networks,” she says. “Sometimes people look strong on the outside, but they’re carrying a lot internally. I want others to know that support exists and that they don’t have to go through difficult moments alone.”

By sharing her experience, Mori hopes to encourage students to reach out when they need help and to remind them that asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

“If my story helps even one person realize that they are not alone especially someone who moved here without family or a support system then it’s worth sharing,” she says.

For Mori, BCIT became more than a place to study it became a second home. She says she will always feel grateful for the people who supported her during difficult moments and helped her continue forward when giving up felt easier.

BCIT student support resources

Students seeking support can access a range of resources at BCIT, including:

• Accessibility Services: BCIT Accessibility Services supports all BCIT students with disabilities and medical conditions, permanent or temporary.

• Early Assist: Get help early. If you are a BCIT student or know a BCIT student experiencing personal, financial, medical, social, or learning challenges, you can submit a referral through Early Assist to get help.

• Counselling and Student Development: Free and confidential counselling services are available to all BCIT students, alongside other resources to support wellness and wellbeing.

• Student Life Office: Explore resources and services to make your educational journey at BCIT a successful one.

• Recreation Services: Recreation services has something for everyone. Learn how to balance your study time with fun and engaging opportunities to stay active, and connect with BCIT community through play.