Success Story: Xiaojin Zhou

🌟 Student Spotlight – Xiaojin, a Passionate and Multilingual Anesthesiologist

Originally from China, Xiaojin grew up in Mexico before settling in Montreal three years ago. A dedicated anesthesiologist with a love for discovering the world, she began learning French to be able to practice her profession in Quebec’s hospital network.

Already trilingual—fluent in Chinese, Spanish, and English—Xiaojin recently took on a fourth language with ambition and discipline. Her goal is to obtain the necessary certifications to continue her medical career here in Quebec.

“I have to learn French for my work at the hospital. I love Montreal, and I want to get involved in life here.”

🌱 Consistency and Discipline

“I didn’t speak French at all—zero!”

When she started her lessons, Xiaojin didn’t know a single word of French. Yet in just nine months, she reached a level that allows her to communicate in both personal and professional situations.

She studies about 30 minutes each day, on top of her tutoring sessions with Montreal French Tutor. She makes the most of every spare moment:

“I listen to the radio in French while I drive. I take every opportunity to practice.”

Were there challenges? Of course.

“Conjugating and understanding people are sometimes difficult.”
But she never let herself get discouraged. In fact, she finds joy in the learning process:
“I love French. I also listen to music and videos in French.”

📚 A Dedicated Student with an Impressive Background

Alongside her language learning, Xiaojin is pursuing a demanding medical career. She has completed two fellowships in regional and general anesthesia at McGill, done research in vascular anesthesia, and continues to refine her English. Despite a very full schedule, she never lets her French practice fall by the wayside.

“I’m persistent, consistent, and committed. I don’t like to miss a class.”

🚀 Real Progress, Clear Goals

Xiaojin is proud of how far she’s come. In less than a year, she has developed solid language skills that allow her to interact confidently in the sensitive and technical environment of a hospital.

“I’m proud to be able to communicate in French after just 9 months.”

Her next goals: pass the TEFAQ and the OQLF exam—two essential certifications to officially practice medecine in Quebec. And she’s preparing for them with method and determination!

💬 A Simple but Powerful Message

When asked what advice she would give to someone learning French, her response perfectly sums up her mindset:

“Don’t give up! No pain, no gain.”

👏 We’re proud to support Xiaojin in this exceptional journey. Her story is a powerful example of perseverance, curiosity, and passion—three strengths that make all the difference, in language learning and in medicine alike.