Leaving home to study abroad is a leap of faith many students take, and I was no different.
I’m Anam Shaikh, an international student currently enrolled in the Digital and Content Marketing Postgraduate program at York University’s School of Continuing Studies. As someone who thrives on academic validation and is nearing the end of this educational journey, I find myself reflecting on my time here. So, come along with me as I share my experience at York SCS—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
One of the standout aspects of my time at York SCS has been the exceptional university faculty. Professors like Rovena Aga, Dorris Montanera, Leigh Mitchell, and Tim Campbell have brought industry expertise into the classroom and have been incredibly supportive and approachable. Their encouragement and focus on practical, in-class activities have significantly boosted my confidence, particularly in public speaking. I’m proud to go from a last bencher to a confident first bencher actively participating in class.
2. Industry Connections and Guest Speakers
The professor’s connections with industry leaders have been very beneficial. We’ve had guest speakers from Amazon, Spotify, and even Google! Learning from their stories and gaining perspectives on current trends, especially in AI, has been eye-opening.
3. Cost-Effective for International Students
Compared to similar programs at other universities in Ontario, Canada, York University School of Continuous Studies offers a more affordable option without compromising on the quality of education. As an international student, this financial aspect has been a significant relief and a deciding factor in my choice.
4. Course Design and Load
The course design of the digital marketing postgraduate course at York SCS is another highlight. Instead of juggling the usual four courses every semester like other universities in Ontario, Canada, we focus on two complementary courses per term. This balanced course load makes it easier to manage school work as well as other personal commitments without compromising on learning. Additionally, it allows for a more in-depth exploration of each subject, leading to a better grasp of each concept.
5. Inclusive Environment:
York SCS’s commitment to inclusivity has made my experience even more comfortable. The availability of self-reflection and prayer rooms has been a thoughtful addition, allowing me to practice my faith in a calm environment. Moreover, the presence of lactation rooms for students and university faculty highlights the university’s consideration of everyone’s needs. These facilities contribute to a supportive and accommodating environment that respects and values diverse needs and practices.
The Cons: What to Know Before Enrolling in York SCS?
1. Quality of the Student Body
Having previously studied at Humber College, I noticed a difference in the student body. Humber’s rigorous admission process seemed to attract more academically focused individuals, creating a highly motivational environment. At York SCS, while I’ve made great friends with similar academic goals, the overall competitive spirit felt less intense. The diverse student body at York SCS is certainly rich and varied, but it sometimes lacks the high academic drive and focus that can push everyone to excel. Ultimately, the experience comes down to your chosen program and the people in it.
2. Lack of Resource Awareness and Social Media Presence
One major issue was not knowing about the available resources. As a new student, I needed help finding basic services like printing. Additionally, key digital tools, like the Free Microsoft Office Suite and LinkedIn Learning are not well publicized, so many of us, myself included, didn’t use them until later. Moreover, improving York SCS’s media presence could greatly enhance student resource awareness. A possible approach would be hiring graduates of the digital marketing postgraduate course, which would generate job opportunities and help produce relevant content.
3. Upfront Fee Payment Structure
Unlike other colleges that offer semester-wise fee payments, York requires the full course fee upfront. This can be financially straining for many international students in Canada and is something to consider when planning your budget. The single payment requirement can be a significant hurdle for those managing finances across multiple semesters, potentially leading to additional stress and financial planning challenges.
4. Limited On-Campus Opportunities
Despite having relevant work experience, finding on-campus employment was a challenge. I applied to numerous job listings but did not secure any interviews, which was disappointing. This lack of on-campus opportunities is something future students should be aware of. The limited availability of on-campus jobs can impact your ability to gain work experience and supplement your income while studying abroad at universities in Ontario, Canada.
Advice for Future Students:
Curiosity and engagement are your best friends at York SCS. Actively participating is key, ask questions, share your opinions, and utilize available resources from day 1. Don’t hesitate to reach out to university faculty and alumni about academic support, career services, and student facilities. Before you enroll, take the time to thoroughly research the details of the digital marketing postgraduate course and understand each module. This preparation will help you align your goals with the program’s outcomes and select the right courses for your career aspirations.
They say balance is essential, but what does that truly mean? It means your mental and physical well-being are just as important as your grades. I've heard amazing things about the support systems at York University, and they can significantly impact your success. Make sure to use these resources when needed.
The Canadian seasons became a metaphor for my academic journey in the digital marketing postgraduate course. Spring brought the hope of new beginnings, summer ignited my passion for learning, autumn whispered the changes I was undergoing, and winter taught me resilience (and the importance of a good coat!).
As I get ready to graduate, I realize my time at York University School of Continuous Studies has been about more than just learning marketing skills; it’s been a journey of personal growth. To future international students in Canada: embrace the challenges, celebrate every win, no matter how small, and keep learning. Your time studying abroad can be a game-changer if you make the most of every chance you get.