Alt text: Four girls of different nationalities are wearing their graduation capes and hats and looking down at one book. There is a convocation ceremony going on in the background.
One thing that I have been passionate about all my life is writing. From creative to corporate, it is the one thing I know I can do extremely well in any situation. That is the reason that while I was completing my Bachelor's, I started interning and freelancing to learn more about the world of Content Marketing.
Soon, after treading different paths, I came across the Digital and Content marketing course at York University, and here I am!
While I know choosing to study abroad is a significant decision, filled with excitement and uncertainty. As an international student at the York School of Continuing Studies, I embarked on this journey with hopes of gaining valuable education and experiencing a new culture. Here, I’ll share my journey, highlighting both the positive aspects and areas that could use improvement. This blog aims to provide future students with a realistic view of what to expect and how to navigate their path at York.
Professors and Their Expertise
One of the most notable strengths of the York School of Continuing Studies is the caliber of its professors. Many of them are seasoned professionals with extensive industry experience, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. This bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application is invaluable. Professors often share anecdotes from their careers, making the learning process engaging and relatable.
For example, in my Digital Marketing course, the professor came to Canada as an International Student, just like us, and now he is a director at a Digital Marketing Agency and PPC Specialist while teaching at 3 different colleges. His knowledge about digital marketing especially in areas like paid ads, SEO, SEM etc. was immense and his journey was a motivation to all of us.
Opportunities with Guest Lecturers
Alt Text: A Lecturer is speaking to students in a classroom.
York School of Continuing Studies regularly hosts guest lecturers from various industries, providing students with a broader perspective on their fields of study. These sessions are incredibly enriching, offering networking opportunities and firsthand knowledge from industry leaders.
For the Digital and Content Marketing course, we had guest lecturers who owned various Digital Marketing Agencies, PPC Specialists, E-Commerce Agencies etc.
I remember a session with a guest lecturer who was a founder of a company that translated videos for Youtubers to different languages to create a mass appeal and gain followers from different parts of the world. He also extended opportunities for students as he was looking to hire people on the tech side of his business.
Industry-Relevant Assignments
Assignments at York University are designed to simulate real-world challenges, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their careers. Projects often require collaboration, research, and practical application of knowledge. In one of my courses, we had to develop a complete marketing strategy for a fictitious company, which included market research, SWOT analysis, and campaign planning. This hands-on approach is invaluable in building the skills needed for the workforce.
However, there is still room for improvement. While many assignments are practical, the curriculum could further integrate AI, data, and performance analytics. Given the rapidly evolving nature of these fields, it’s crucial for the curriculum to stay current and provide students with cutting-edge tools and techniques.
Variability in Student Experience
One of the challenges at York University is the variability in student experiences due to the high number of students and diverse class schedules. With different batches and timings, not all students have access to the same resources and professors. Some of the best professors only teach morning classes, leaving evening batch students at a disadvantage, and vice versa. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially for students who have limited flexibility in their schedules.
Curriculum and Teaching Methods
While the overall curriculum is robust, there is a need for more consistency in how it is delivered. Each professor has their own style and approach, which can lead to discrepancies in the learning experience. Some professors are excellent at making the content practical and engaging, while others stick strictly to the theoretical aspects, which may not resonate as well with students who have significant professional experience.
Given that many students at York are pursuing post-graduate studies, it’s essential that the curriculum is as practical and hands-on as possible. More efforts should be made to standardize the quality of teaching and ensure that all students, regardless of their batch, receive a high-quality education that meets their needs.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, York University School of Continuing Studies has areas that could be improved. The curriculum could benefit from a more significant emphasis on practical applications, especially in integrating AI, data, and performance analytics. These are critical skills in today’s job market, and ensuring that students are proficient in them will enhance their employability.
Moreover, the school should work towards providing a more uniform experience for all students. This could involve ensuring that all professors, regardless of the class timing, are equally skilled and experienced. Additionally, offering more flexible learning options could help accommodate the diverse schedules of international students.
Advice for Future Students
For future students considering York School of Continuing Studies, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Be Proactive: Take advantage of the resources available to you. Attend guest lectures, participate in workshops, and network with industry professionals.
- Seek Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios. Whether it’s through internships, part-time jobs, or freelance projects, practical experience is invaluable.
- Engage with Professors: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors with questions or for guidance. Their industry experience can provide you with insights that go beyond the curriculum.
- Leverage Technology: Familiarize yourself with the latest tools and technologies in your field. Given the emphasis on AI and data analytics, having proficiency in these areas will be beneficial.
- Stay Flexible and Open-Minded: Understand that not every class or professor will meet your expectations. Stay flexible and open-minded, and focus on what you can learn from each experience.
Alt Text: The building of York University School of Continuing Studies with cars passing around it.
Conclusion
Studying at the York School of Continuing Studies as an international student has been a rewarding journey filled with learning and growth. While there are areas for improvement, the opportunities to learn from experienced professors, engage with industry leaders, and work on practical assignments are invaluable. By staying proactive and making the most of the resources available, future students can navigate their path successfully and gain a meaningful education that prepares them for their careers.
