(A young man stands in front of large red letters spelling YORK SCS, leaning casually against one of the letters. He smiles and holds up a peace sign with left hand, wearing a backpack and causal attire. The shiny floor beneath him reflects the bold letters, creating a mirrored effect.)
Introduction:
My studies at York School of Continuing Studies (SCS) have been filled with both rewarding experiences and some difficulties. I want to share some of the most memorable experiences I had here, both good and bad, in this blog to help future students by offering guidance and insights. During my time at York SCS, I have experienced a range of emotions, from the comfort of thoughtfully planned breakout spaces to the infrequent frustration with classroom facilities.
Explore my journey at York SCS the benefits of breakout rooms and the challenges with classroom power supply issues. A must-read for future students!
The Positives: Breakout Rooms:
Breakout rooms are one of York SCS's most notable features. These learning spaces are not spacious but also very well-designed to meet the needs of the students.
Well-Equipped and Accessible:
Good lighting, air conditioning, and a TV that can be easily connected to laptops and mobile devices are all included in each breakout room. It's perfect for group projects, assignment talks, and even practice presentations because of these spaces. They are maintained neat and clean. The ease of use doesn't end there. To reserve a breakout room, all it takes is scanning a QR code outside the room, providing some basic information, and locking down the area for however long is needed up to thirty minutes or more.
Practical Uses:
I am one of the many students who have found these breakout rooms to be very helpful. They offer a quiet area where group members can gather, complete homework, and even get ready for a presentation. Additionally, these rooms provide a calm and professional environment in which to conduct business whether you have an interview or a crucial class to attend while on campus. The fact that these facilities are free for SCS students is a significant bonus.
(This is a collage of three images. In the top left, two female students sit across from each other at a white table, both focused on their laptops with bags and extra chairs around them in a room with a TV on the wall. The center-right image shows three female students engaged in a group study session, their laptops open with notebooks spread out on a similar white table. The bottom left image is a close-up of a sign with a QR code, detailing how to reserve this collaborative study space, rules to follow, highlighting the college's learning environment.)
Additional Benefits:
There are many other facilities that York SCS provides to improve the student experience expand beyond the breakout rooms.
For example, students can print copies on campus for just 10 cents each using Xerox machines. Particularly useful for students who need to print a lot of things is its cost.
To print out your documents, simply use your York U card with an existing balance. Scan the QR code near the Xerox machine and follow these easy steps:
- Scan your York U card or student ID.
- Upload your documents.
- Print them for just 10 cents per page.
I've saved a lot of money using this convenient service!
Additionally, York SCS's faculty and staff are incredibly kind and encouraging, which fosters a supportive and encouraging learning atmosphere.
(A white-colored xerox machine with the York University logo on it placed against a wall. The machine has multiple trays, which are locked and a touchscreen interface. A sign with a QR code and usage instructions is mounted on the wall next to machine. The setup is clean and organized.)Professor Tim: An Exceptional Mentor
Professor Tim at York SCS is highly regarded for his friendly demeanor, fast-paced teaching style, and exceptional mentorship. His classes are engaging and practical, with students consistently attending due to his captivating approach.
2. Approachable: Always accessible to students, responding promptly to emails.
3. High Attendance: Students regularly attend his classes, a proof to his teaching effectiveness.
4. Valuable Mentorship: Provides practical advice and actionable insights, enhancing the learning experience.
(Two guys are interacting with a Acer laptop in a classroom setting. The man on the left, wearing a blue checked shirt, is sitting down and pointing at the laptop screen with a shocked expression, his mouth open. The man on the right is standing, smiling as he looks at the screen. Both men are wearing watches and have tattoos. In the background, there is a whiteboard with two dusters attached. The has a few other items scattered on it.)
The Negatives: Power Supply Issues in Classrooms
While my overall experience at York SCS has been positive, there are a few areas that need improvement. One issue that stands out is the lack of consistent power supply to all the tables in the classrooms.
Inconsistent Power Supply:
Students, including myself, have noticed that several tables lack electrical power plugs on multiple occasions. This can be annoying, particularly on busy days when you must rush from work to class and discover that the batteries on your laptop and mobile devices are going low. Despite multiple complaints, the problem persists, with some tables remaining perpetually without power.
Impact on Students:
Imagine arriving at class, needing to plug in your devices to participate in an online test or activity, only to discover that the power outlet at your regular table isn't working. This issue has led to some tables always being empty, as students avoid them, knowing they can't rely on the power supply. Consequently, this creates congestion at the few tables where the power outlets do work, as students sit together to share the limited resources.
A Call for Improvement:
Initially, when we raised complaints about this issue, it was resolved quickly. However, the problem raised up within a few days. Now, whenever we see tables without power supply, we can't help but laugh and leave them empty.
While this may not be a major problem, it can become a serious inconvenience during critical moments like in-class online tests or activities. I hope this minor yet significant issue gets resolved soon for the benefit of all students.
(A collage of three pictures. The first image on the top left shows a classroom with a few empty tables and chairs, while three students are seated at different tables, focused on their work. The remaining two images focus on close-ups of white power outlets embedded into the tables, providing easy access for students to plug in their devices.)
Conclusion:
My time at York School of Continuing Studies has been a journey of growth, learning, and occasional challenges.
The breakout rooms have been a highlight, offering a great space for collaboration and individual work. On the other hand, the power supply issue in classrooms, while minor, has sometimes caused inconvenience.
For future students, my advice is to make the most of the excellent facilities like the breakout rooms and to be prepared for the occasional hiccup, such as the power supply issue. Overall, York SCS provides a supportive and resourceful environment that can significantly enhance your academic experience.
(A collage of five pictures:
-Top Left: A modern, sunlit hallway with glass walls and a shiny floor, leading towards, stairs and additional rooms.
- Top Right: A TTC York University subway sign with the York University logo against a cloudy sky.
- Middle: Three young men pose in front of large red "YORK SCS" letters, flashing peace signs and smiling.
- Bottom Left: A classroom with a U-shaped arrangement of white tables and black chairs.
-Bottom Right: The entrance to York University subway station with a distinctive curved roof and people walking by.)
