From Finance to Marketing: My Transformative Journey as an International Student and Proud Yorkian

Studying at York School of Continuing Studies has been a transformative experience. The supportive environment has fostered both academic and personal growth. With fantastic professors, engaging guest lectures, and lifelong friendships, my time at York has been unforgettable. Additionally, I developed a strong network for my future career. Initially focused on finance, I transitioned into digital and content marketing, finding a new passion and direction. In this blog, I will share my journey and offer tips for future students considering a similar path.
Exceptional Faculty and a Supportive Environment
York School of Continuing Studies is known for its amazing professors. They are not just knowledgeable, but also super approachable and supportive. Their classes are engaging and practical, and they share a lot of real-world experience. They truly care about student success and are always ready to provide extra help and personalized guidance. This supportive environment has made it easier for me to adapt to a new educational system and succeed academically.
The professors use real-world examples and case studies in their lectures, which makes it easier to understand how theory works in practice. Their interactive teaching style encourages us to participate in discussions and projects, helping us develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are so important in today's job market.
Engaging Guest Lectures
Our professors often organize guest lectures featuring industry experts. These sessions have been incredibly valuable, providing real-world perspectives and networking opportunities. Guest lectures complement our coursework and offer a deeper understanding of the subjects. For instance, a series of talks on digital marketing trends and strategies significantly enriched our learning and provided practical insights we could apply to our projects.
Guest lectures help us stay current with the latest industry trends and practices. They offer a better understanding of the professional world and the expectations and challenges we may face in the future. Additionally, these sessions allow us to interact directly with experts, gaining valuable advice and insights.
Tait McKenzie Centre
The Tait McKenzie Centre is a fantastic facility for York University students and staff. It offers affordable gym memberships with access to a lot of great amenities. If you’re into fitness like me, you’ll love this place. Even though it can get busy sometimes, I’ve always been able to finish my workouts without any problems. The drop-in fitness classes, especially spin cycle, are a fun way to stay in shape and meet other fitness enthusiasts.
The gym has high-quality equipment, and the atmosphere is friendly and supportive. There’s a clean pool, a well-equipped workout room, and a big gym for sports like basketball. I’ve taken swimming classes here, and the pool is always clean, with helpful instructors.
One of the best things about the Tait McKenzie Centre is how affordable it is. For students, the membership costs just $20 after tax for the whole year, which is an amazing deal. It’s the perfect spot for students who love fitness and want a great place to work out.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
York School of Continuing Studies takes pride in its diverse and inclusive community. The presence of international students creates a rich cultural mosaic at the school. This diversity has allowed me to interact with peers from different backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing my learning experience. The school's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its comprehensive support services for international students, including academic advising, language assistance, and cultural integration programs.
The diverse student body has enriched my educational experience by exposing me to various cultures, traditions, and viewpoints. This has helped me gain a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s interconnected world. The school celebrates diversity through cultural events and activities, fostering a sense of belonging.
Excellent Mentors and Inspiring Study Atmosphere
The mentors at York University have been outstanding, providing guidance and inspiration throughout my studies. Their support has been instrumental in my learning journey, helping me navigate both academic challenges and personal growth. The study atmosphere at York is equally inspiring, encouraging students to push their limits and achieve their best. I have learned valuable lessons not only in accounting but also in life, thanks to the dedicated mentors and the positive environment they create.
Advice for Future Students
- Get Involved:Join clubs and school activities to meet people and make your time at school better.
- Manage Your Time Well:Keep track of your classes, lectures, and activities with a planner or app to stay organized.
- Know You are Not Alone:Ask for help from teachers and classmates if you need it. Everyone is here to support you.
- Always Do Your Best:Work hard in your studies and activities. Your effort will make a difference.
- Have Fun:Enjoy your time at school, make good memories, and remember to relax and have fun.
Reflecting on my time at York School of Continuing Studies, I can confidently say it has been a life-changing experience. The exceptional guidance from faculty, engaging guest lectures, and valuable library resources have greatly contributed to my academic and personal development. York's innovative learning methods and its diverse, inclusive environment have made my time here truly unforgettable and have played a key role in advancing my career. For those who are considering York, I encourage you to fully engage with every opportunity available—get involved in activities, manage your time effectively, seek help when needed, always strive for excellence, and make sure to enjoy the journey. By embracing everything York has to offer, you will find success and fulfillment. My experience has set the stage for a promising future, and I take great pride in being part of the York community.