"It can be scary to go back to school, but it felt like a fresh start for my career when I enrolled in York University's School of Continuing Studies in January 2023. It was a new beginning in a new country with diverse cultures, and it truly was an incredible experience!"
Campus Visit
My York adventure kicked off with a bang! I documented every moment of my first day on my YouTube channel, "Mr. Arora Vlogs," hoping to inspire other Indian students to chase their Canadian dreams. The campus tour was a magical experience, especially when I witnessed my first-ever Canadian snowfall. York was everything I'd imagined - beautiful, welcoming, and full of driven people.
Orientation day was another highlight. I was officially greeted by Michelle Aarons, the Director of Continuing Professional Education. Meeting fellow students and learning about the amazing support services available, from York International to Student Success, made me feel right at home. Our energetic tour guide gave us a whirlwind tour of the campus, including the impressive new School of Continuing Studies building. The day ended on a sweet note with a delicious lunch. It was the perfect start to my York journey.
Professors Who Made a Difference "My first program was a Post-Graduation Certificate in Business Administration. Right from the start, I was fortunate to be taught Business Communication by Professor Doina Nugent. Her passion for clear and effective communication was contagious, and the skills I learned in her class have been invaluable in my professional life. The other professors were just as amazing – they were highly knowledgeable and made learning engaging."
Professor Belinda Chin’s class was more than just lectures; it was a culinary adventure. I still remember the fun we had with our spontaneous potlucks. Since cooking is my passion, coming from a hospitality and catering background, I jumped at the chance to host a small gathering in class. With Professor Chin’s approval, I made a pasta feast for fifty hungry classmates. Watching them enjoy every bite and their faces light up with delight is a memory I cherish. We even took photos to capture the moment. Inspired by my cooking, our next class turned into a culinary carnival, with everyone bringing and sharing their favorite homemade treats. It was a wonderful mix of flavours and cultures.
Transforming My Professional Journey at York University
My time at York University changed my professional life in incredible ways. With seven years of experience in the catering and hospitality industry and running a food truck, I wanted to build on my knowledge in business management and digital marketing. The Business Administration program improved my skills in strategic planning and financial management, helping me see how my decisions affect a business's success. The Digital Marketing program showed me how to use online tools to reach new audiences, applying what I learned to real-world projects. These skills are essential for successfully running my businesses and expanding them into new countries
York's teaching methods were particularly effective. The mix of interactive lectures, practical workshops, and guest speakers from top companies like Google, Spotify, and Amazon made learning dynamic and engaging. I picked up useful skills in digital marketing and business management that have prepared me well for the professional world.
Pocket-Friendly Programs for International Students
What sets York apart from many other Canadian universities is the affordability of its programs, especially for international students. As an international student, we already pay more than double the tuition fees compared to domestic students, so budget considerations are crucial. When exploring postgraduate programs, it's important to factor in not only tuition fees but also living expenses. The total tuition fee for my first program at York was $15,199, with an additional insurance fee of $400. In comparison, similar programs at other colleges can cost between $18,000 and $20,000. For my current program, I paid $13,699 plus a $400 insurance fee, after deducting a $1,900 credit for one subject. These cost savings make a significant difference, allowing me to invest more in my personal and professional growth.Additionally, York offers a flexible instalment system for paying tuition fees, which I found extremely helpful in managing my budget.
Choosing York has equipped me with the tools to successfully manage my businesses and expand my reach through effective digital marketing, all while being mindful of my budget. If you're an international student looking for high-quality education without breaking the bank, York is definitely worth considering."
An Unforgettable Convocation Ceremony
The convocation ceremony for my first program was incredible. It was a proud moment for all of us, and we even got a chance to take pictures with Director Michelle Aarons of York University. She is an amazing personality and made the event even more special. The campus also organized some snacks and drinks for the guests. Additionally, there are shopping places set up where you can buy York logo t-shirts and goodies to capture the memory for a lifetime.