Hey guys, I hope you all are doing well! I'm writing this blog just a month before finishing my studies. Moving from India to Canada felt like a rollercoaster ride. I'm from Delhi, India, and leaving home after 24 years was quite difficult for me. I missed my family, friends, colleagues, and everyone else.
I finished my BBA from IP University in 2020 and started working at Amazon as a Customer Service Associate for a year. Then, I joined Publicis as a Paid Social Intern. After working for six months, I got promoted to Paid Social Analyst and worked there for another year. That's where my interest in advertising and digital marketing developed. I came to Canada with my friends from Amazon, Vaibhav and Shivangi. They went to York, and I chose Sheridan.
When I first came to Canada, it was very difficult to manage everything alone – my food, my stay, and college. Thankfully, my best friend Vidhi came a few months earlier and was there to help me at every step. I did my first course in Advertising Account Management at Sheridan College, where I made diverse friends from Peru, Vietnam, and Pakistan and learned different things and cultures from them.
After completing my first course, I decided to attend York University, which my friends had referred me to. It turned out to be the best decision I made after coming here.
Focused Learning
One of the most significant differences I've noticed at York University is the focused learning approach. At Sheridan, I was often overwhelmed by the sheer number of subjects I had to juggle simultaneously. In contrast, York University structures its courses so that we concentrate on just two subjects over two months. This system allows us to dive deep into each topic, making it easier to understand and retain the study material without feeling overwhelmed. This focused approach has improved my academic performance and enhanced my overall learning experience. For instance, in the Marketing for Search Engines and Social Media course, I learned several new skills like Keyword research, SEM and SEO strategies, which allowed me to apply these skills directly to a small business I help manage, significantly boosting its online presence.
Community and Student Life
While York University offers a great learning environment, it differs from Seneca College in terms of student community and activities. Seneca has a vibrant campus life with many clubs, events like movie days, and lunch specials organized by the Seneca Student Federation (SSF). These activities create a lively and engaging atmosphere that fosters a sense of community among students.
York University, on the other hand, may not have as many clubs or community events, but it offers other unique features that make up for it. The emphasis at York is more on academic excellence and professional development, which suits my personal goals and aspirations. Although I miss the lively social scene of Seneca, the opportunities for growth and development at York are unparalleled.
A Hub of Convenience One of the best things about York University is York Lanes. This on-campus hub has everything you need, from great food and groceries to medicine and other essentials. It’s incredibly convenient to have all these amenities in one place, making it easy to take care of daily needs without leaving campus.
York Lanes also includes The Break Room, a fun arcade with both digital and analog games. It’s a fantastic place to relax and have fun after classes. I always look forward to visiting The Break Room because it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some fun time with friends. The excitement and joy that The Break Room brings is a testament to York's commitment to providing a well-rounded student experience
Amazing Professors
The professors at York University are truly exceptional. Many have their agencies and have worked for top companies, bringing real-world experience into the classroom. Their expertise has been invaluable, providing us with insights and knowledge that go beyond textbooks. Learning from professionals with firsthand industry experience has been incredibly inspiring and motivating. In one of my courses, our professor shared his experience working on a major campaign for a leading brand. This real-world insight was fascinating and provided practical knowledge that I could apply to my future projects.
The professors also organize guest lectures, inviting industry experts to speak to us. These sessions have been incredibly beneficial, helping us build connections and expand our professional networks. It’s inspiring to learn from people who are leaders in their fields, and these opportunities have opened many doors for future career prospects. One memorable guest lecture by Luki Danukarjanto, who is a Career Coach and Founder at FOCUS.inspired, discussed the latest trends in the market, and offered invaluable career advice. He guided us about how networking is important and how to initiate a conversation with a short message.
Tips for International Students Planning to Study Abroad
In Summary,
Overall, my journey from Sheridan to York has been transformative, filled with challenges and growth opportunities. Moving from India to Canada was a significant change, but it allowed me to discover new cultures, build lasting friendships, and develop both personally and professionally. York's focused learning, exceptional professors, and enriching campus life have been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations and academic success. For fellow international students, remember to embrace the journey, build a support system, and take advantage of the resources and opportunities available. Each experience, no matter how challenging, contributes to your growth and success.
I strongly encourage you to delve into the diverse range of programs available at York University's School of Continuing Studies. This is where your path to achievement truly takes flight.