Hi there, aspiring international students of York School of Continuing Studies! If you're reading this, You are probably considering York University to fulfil your Canadian education dream and to get that international exposure. I will help you confidently navigate this new chapter, as an international student enrolled in the Digital and Content Marketing course, I'm here to share my experiences and offer some advice. Now get a cup of coffee, relax, and let's get started!
Evening Classes at York: Perfect for Working Professionals
You'll see that the class schedules are flexible right away. Although there are other times available, I choose to attend sessions in the evening from 6:45 to 9:45. For someone like myself who was balancing an internship during the day, this timing was ideal. I would leave the workplace at the end of the day, get a fast snack (often a hurriedly assembled PB&J sandwich), and then go to class. It takes some work, but if I can you can do it too! Imagine it as the rewarding but laborious equivalent of levelling up in a video game.
Boost Your Resume with HubSpot and Hootsuite Certifications
With so many useful skills covered in the course, your CV will look as polished as a diamond in the rough. We had to complete the HubSpot and Hootsuite certifications for marks; believe me, these aren't just fillers for resumes. In the field of marketing, these certifications are crucial. Furthermore, there's no better feeling than putting a fresh badge on your LinkedIn profile and enjoying the virtual cheers that follow (play the LinkedIn notification bell).
Learn from Industry Experts and Guest Lecturers at York
Our instructors were professionals in the marketing field with years of hands-on experience. This implies that our knowledge came directly from the front lines. We also had several guest lectures from business owners and prominent figures in the field who discussed their experiences, triumphs, and spectacular failures (because who doesn't enjoy a good failure story?).
During a guest lecture, the people from the brand Roll-Up, a toilet paper brand, shared a very remarkable experience. You read correctly: toilet paper. This presentation had such an impact on two of my seniors that they decided to take on the brand Roll Up as their group project, created a fantastic marketing strategy, and ultimately secured internships with the company. I was greatly impacted by this anecdote, which served as a reminder that ideas can arise from the most unlikely sources. Always keep in mind to create creative marketing strategies with the toilet paper life gives you!
Hands-on experience in Marketing for Search Engines and Social Media
The course wasn’t just about theory. In our Marketing for Search Engines and Social Media subject, we got down and dirty with paid ads, Google Analytics, and SEO audits. Special shoutout to Professor Kanak Agarwal, who provided us with an SEO audit template that I plan to use in my future job applications. Practical skills like these are what set you apart in the job market.
The Magic of Content Creation: Tim Campbell-Smith’s Class
If I had to choose, my favourite would be Tim Campbell-Smith's course on content creation. His classes were always a blast, and his excitement and energy were contagious. We discussed various content formats, completed content creation tasks, and got tailored feedback. Tim's comments were amusing and constructive, although my alt-text for one of my tasks was hilariously incorrect. The assignment was creating a meme-based blog since who doesn't enjoy memes? His words, to borrow, were, "The Alt-text was completely wrong but hilarious to read." Who knew that making mistakes could be so much fun?
Tips for Future York Students: Make the Most of Your Time Here
So, what advice do I have for you, future York students?
- Embrace Flexibility: If you're working or interning, taking classes in the evenings can save your life. Although it's a busy schedule, it's doable.
2. Utilize Certifications: Make the most of your HubSpot and Hootsuite credentials. They are great advantages to have in your career.
3. Learn from the Best: Pay close attention to the guest lecturers and industry experts. Their practical experiences offer priceless insights.
4. Get Realistic: Give your all to real-world tasks and assignments. Their purpose is to equip you for life in the real world.
5. Have Fun: Embrace the adventure! You'll gain a lot of knowledge while having fun, and the lecturers are informed and encouraging.
Final Thoughts: My Journey at York School of Continuing Studies
In conclusion, I would say that my time at York School of Continuing Studies has been immensely fulfilling. During the process, I learned useful skills, formed important contacts, and had a great time. Prepare yourself, maintain your curiosity, and enjoy your time here to the fullest. You can succeed at this!
P.S. Keep in mind that even toilet paper can make for an interesting marketing story if you find yourself under pressure. Enjoy!
