Hola Folks! I am Meetali Goyal, I landed in Canada back in January'2023. I have completed (almost) two years at York University. Below are some key takeaways which I hope can help you in some way!
My first degree at York University, ‘School of Continuing Studies was in Human Resource Management. Later, I decided to continue my studies with a Post Graduate Diploma Certificate in Digital and Content Marketing. It is located in the bustling city of Toronto, Ontario. My university days were filled with learning, growing and creating unforgettable memories
The First Steps
I still remember my first day on campus vividly. It was a crisp winter morning, and although the cold nipped at my cheeks, my excitement to meet new people and explore the university kept me warm. The orientation day was eye-opening, filled with valuable information, a light lunch, and a comprehensive campus tour. I heard a rumour that the best way to get to know the campus was to get lost a few times—seems like that was more truth than fiction, as I found my way through countless corridors and hidden spots while discovering the university’s unique charm.
I began my research into York University by exploring YouTube videos and conducting thorough online searches. Initially, it was challenging to find detailed reviews about the actual experience, but I navigated this by consulting with educational agents who provided valuable insights. Additionally, York University’s affordability was a key factor in my decision-making process, helping me make the right choice.
The Campus
"York University" located in Toronto, is one of Canada’s largest and most vibrant institutions. The Keele Campus, with its blend of modern and Brutalist architecture, became my academic home. From Vari Hall and Scott Library to York Lanes and the athletic facilities, every corner of the campus offered something new to discover. As a person who lives in Scarborough, I found the transit to York University to be long but manageable. The city’s excellent public transit made exploring easy, and having York University’s own subway station on campus further enhanced convenience, simplifying my commute and access to the city’s offerings.
Diving into Digital and Content Marketing
I've always had a strong interest in marketing, and York University’s program was a perfect fit. Online digital marketing excites me because it blends innovative strategies with the power of data to reach and engage audiences effectively. The dynamic nature of digital platforms and the ability to see instant feedback and impact make it an exhilarating field. York University’s School of Continuing Studies offers a Digital and Content Marketing "curriculum" that provides a convenient and collaborative learning environment, making it easy for students to gain practical skills and insights through a supportive cohort-based approach.
“Rovena Aga”, “Heath Applebaum”, and “Tim Campbell” were among my favourite professors at York University. Rovena Aga's engaging teaching style and deep industry knowledge made digital marketing classes incredibly insightful. Heath Applebaum's enthusiasm for communications and storytelling left a lasting impression, while Tim Campbell's strategic business insights offered practical knowledge that I continue to value.
The School of Continuing Studies: "Where It All Falls Short".
While York University boasts a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, extracurricular activities, and organizations, the same can't be said for the York University School of Continuing Studies. This division, which primarily caters to working professionals, part-time students, and those seeking flexible learning options, focuses more on delivering academic and professional development programs. Due to its unique student demographic and the nature of its offerings, the School of Continuing Studies lacks the typical student life infrastructure seen in other parts of the university, such as "clubs, extracurricular activities, and student organizations". Additionally, the student body at the School of Continuing Studies tends to be less diverse in terms of age and background compared to the broader university population. This can limit the exposure to different perspectives and experiences that are often a hallmark of traditional university environments, potentially reducing the richness of the educational and social experience for students.
Self-Regulation Theory given by Albert Bandura focuses on individuals' ability to manage their learning through goal-setting, self-monitoring, and adapting strategies based on feedback. At York University's School of Continuing Studies, this theory was pivotal to my success. For example, while working on projects such as developing revenue marketing models for pizza shops or just completing my assignments on time , I set specific goals, regularly assessed my progress, and adjusted my approach based on feedback. This proactive management of my learning process not only helped me navigate challenges effectively but also enhanced my performance and outcomes, illustrating the impact of self regulation on achieving academic and personal success in digital and content marketing.
A Fellowship of Friends: Building Connections at York University:
One of my favourite parts of the York experience was the time spent with friends during coffee breaks at Tim’s. These moments were more than just casual meetups—they were filled with laughter, deep conversations, and shared experiences that made my university life richer. Additionally, the in-class activities we engaged in during each session were instrumental in fostering connections among us. These interactive experiences not only enhanced our understanding of the material but also a cohesive and collaborative learning environment that helped us get to know one another better. I remember working on Lego cases, creating imaginary revenue marketing models for pizza shops, and participating in group quizzes.
Reality Check: When University Life Gets, "A little bit too much" :
Every journey brings its own set of challenges and rewards. At first, managing coursework, extracurricular activities, and part-time work was overwhelming. However, these demanding experiences were essential for my growth, teaching me effective time management, resilience, and prioritization. Group projects also presented their own set of difficulties, particularly when team members missed deadlines or failed to attend meetings, which complicated timely submissions. Yet, these situations underscored the importance of teamwork and the skills needed to navigate diverse personalities and collaborative challenges. There will also be times when you trust the wrong people and everything will feel a little too much to take in on those time remember to take a deep breath and take one step at a time.
Reminder: Take your time to understand people truly. Don't trust people way too easily on the other hand don't take forever to make friends. Observe their actions and intentions before trusting them. "In the words of Gandalf, 'All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.' - Lord of the Rings.
Take it from a person who is an avid movie/series watcher and has completed two years at York, here's my advice to future students:
3. Build Connections and Network: Embrace "Phil Dunphy’s" friendly and optimistic approach from Modern Family. Building connections with peers and professors can lead to valuable friendships and opportunities. (iykyk)
Exploring Toronto:
Additionally, I loved wandering through the city, from exploring the lush green walking/biking trails like "Tommy Thompson Park" or the "R.C. Water Treatment Plant" to soaking in the serenity of the Toronto Islands. One of my favourite spots to sit and relax was at the "Trillium Park" (near Harbour Front) where one could see the city's entire skyline. My love for the city grew deeper after exploring it more each day.
Conclusion: A Journey Well-Spent
The friendships I formed, the projects I completed, and the knowledge I gained have all contributed to a profound and lasting impact on my life. I am grateful for my professors' support, my peers' camaraderie, and the enriching experiences that have collectively shaped my journey at York. If I look back at the last seven months I have spent at York, I can see how much I have grown both personally and professionally. The rigorous academic environment pushed me to think critically and creatively, while hands-on projects and internships provided valuable real-world experience.
Before I sign off folks, remember this: tackle your university experience like you're in "The Office". Embrace the quirks, maintain your sense of humour, and roll with the unexpected twists. Those seemingly bizarre moments will eventually turn into your most memorable stories.
Ready to Dive In?
If you’re considering a journey similar to mine or have just started, I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions! Drop a comment below sharing what excites you most about digital and content marketing or any challenges you’re facing! Let’s connect and support each other in this exciting field!