I can go first, and I'll also bring in Jared to add to this.
I've talked to some students here at CASA and from the stories I've heard when they first came to study in Canada they actually went to Quebec first and they were doing some of their education in Laval before transferring to Alberta. They said that the distinction was clear, and the supports that they were afforded in Quebec were much different, more visible and helpful than what they were receiving in Alberta or in the rest of the country.
Jared might have more he can add to this as well.