In January 2023, I made my way to Canada. It was my first time living independently without my parents. I thought a lot about how I would handle things here because the conditions were so different. Having come from the hotter western region of India, I found the January snowfall to be quite difficult to adjust to initially.

Another major issue was finding a part-time job to help pay my bills while I was a student. I started looking for work online and applying, but I wasn't getting very far. I tried applying in person, as many people advised, but I was still unsuccessful. I even updated my resume, but it was ineffective.

After three months, a friend finally introduced me to his place of employment an summertime drew near, new jobs in the restaurant business became available. I was overjoyed to be offered a position as a busser at an Italian restaurant with a Michelin star. I was eager to learn about my new role and Italian food because this was my first work in this field.

Moreover, my first post-graduation course in Canada was Marketing Management at Humber Collage (Lakeshore Campus). Studying there was fun and unique as the campus was so big and historic. It is said that Humber Lakeshore was a mental asylum in the past, and many people have a variety of stories. A few buildings are not within the visiting range, but on the contrary, many Netflix series and Hollywood movies have been shot on that campus in the past. At Humber we used to get free food, free concerts, And many activities like pottery, stone and pot painting, and many more fun things.

However, balancing my employment and school with my personal life was challenging. I also wanted to explore the country because it was my first time traveling outside of my home country and in Canada. I wanted to make new acquaintances from different nations, learn about their cultures, and see new areas in Canada, including diverse attractions.

In January 2024, I started a new academic journey. when I enrolled in the School of Continuing Studies (SCS) Digital and Content Marketing course. I had no idea that, because of SCS's flexibility and support, this choice would improve not just my professional skills but also help me maintain healthy work-study balance.

At first, I was enrolled in Section 4, which was from 6:45 to 9:45 p.m. But this time clashed with my evening part-time job, which made going to classes almost impossible. I emailed Todd Rich, a program coordinator at SCS, who saved my life. He helped and transferred me to Section 2, which is from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Positive Aspects

A Helpful Environment

One of SCS's best qualities is its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. I felt like I belonged as soon as I stepped onto the campus. My first impression of the campus and SCS building was that they were happy and mesmerizing, as they were big, beautiful and super spacious. In addition to their expertise, the experienced instructors are pleasant and always available to assist students with any questions or issues.

Excellent Educational Structure

SCS is proud of its solid educational program that prioritizes real-world experience. The curriculum is meant to give students practical experience and equip them for obstacles they may face in the real world. The classroom atmosphere is one of learning, with a healthy balance of discussions, debates, and in-class activities. The faculties are really helpful and experts in their respective teaching fields. During my journey with SCS I met excellent professors like Rahim Katchi, Melyssa Cummings Lipsey, Leigh Mitchell, Tim Campbell, and Doris Montanera. The best of all the things that I should know about the specific subject which is definitely going to help me in my future progress.

Easily adjustable Class Schedules

Students can select from a variety of sections at SCS according to what is most convenient for them. There are four different sections for students; for example, I am in section 2, from 12 pm to 3 pm, and my part-time job begins from 5 pm to 12 am, so This flexibility is a blessing for working people like me who have to balance several obligations. Learning is more fun and less stressful in a classroom where professors and students develop a friendly environment.

Facility at York University Campus

York University is one of the biggest and most spacious campuses I have ever seen. It is ranked 401-500 in the world and 18-19 in Canada. Anyone coming to Canada should consider applying to York University.

At York they have their personal TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) known as “York University Subway station” from which you can travel northbound or southbound where you want to go. Its various facilities for students and professors like, for example, Gym, at gym one has to take to do their daily routine exercise and keep them healthy. One of the best things students at York can get is “Free Groceries,” which isn't that exciting! So for that students need to go to the student center and create their grocery cards in the basement of the building.

Moreover, it has a break room for everyone to chill and relax from their stress and tension. There are many indoor games and a small food court to eat and drink. The vibe of the break room is good, so no one is able to shop themselves to go there. Last but not least, it has a big food court known as “York Lane,” in which everyone can find their cuisine with every variety.

Perfect SCS Building Amenities

The campus of SCS is quite remarkable. Located within all greenery, it offers a calm setting ideal for learning. Several facilities are housed in the large structure, which includes an ample of study space, private meeting rooms, a food vending machine and also a unique coffee machine ;several meeting rooms in which students and professors can do their personal work and meet peace and silently in their own space also a prayer room that serves students from different traditions. One of the unique things that I found in our SCS building is that there is a help desk where you have to scan a QR code to stay in the for any kind of information about the courses like, for example, transcript drop off, fees refund, fees deposit, course exchange, and much other general information. These facilities support a comprehensive educational experience.

Things to Work on

SCS offers excellent academics, and I  love being there. However one drawback is the lack of events and extracurricular activities through which students can relax, make new friends, and improve their soft skills by attending events. Another aspect that one can look into is during the summer, the campus gets quite hot, which might be uncomfortable for students. This problem might be addressed by adding more table/ ceiling fans in all classes.

Tips for Future Students

I heartily suggest SCS's Digital and Content Marketing course to potential students. The study method aims to be educational and valuable, and the lectures are engaging. Guest lecturers who are subject matter experts enhance the training and offer helpful feedback from the business.

In addition, the education is affordable, allowing a diverse group of students to enroll. With its vast array of facilities, the campus meets every requirement a student could have, guaranteeing a relaxing and practical educational experience.

At last, the School of Continuing Studies has provided me with an incredibly fulfilling experience. My advancement as an academic and professional has been helped by the outstanding facilities, knowledgeable faculty, and supportive environment. SCS provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for the future, despite a few little drawbacks. SCS is the place to be if you're thinking about pursuing your education while balancing other commitments.