Choosing to enrol in the Digital Media program at York University School of Continuing Studies was a pivotal decision in my life. This choice was largely influenced by an unexpected turn of events; my visa got cancelled because I was notified by the IRCC that my work permit was no longer valid due to my previous university not being DLI registered. Therefore, in order to remain in Canada, I needed to pursue another study program.
Given my background in handling digital marketing for my family's resort in Sri Lanka, I was naturally inclined towards a field that would enhance my skills and expand my knowledge. Although my heart still called out to pursuing music which was why I came to Canada in the first place, I needed to take a hard look at my future and make a decision in pursuing a program that will land me a job in the Canadian job market, which will also hopefully benefit my calling as a musician one day.
Why I chose York University SCS for my masters in Canada?
Upon doing ample research on Digital Marketing programs within Ontario, my research led me to York University, renowned for its excellent academic programs and affordable MBA, making it the ideal choice for my situation. The Masters program was only nine months long, and would help me obtain a one year work permit which was quite ideal.
My first day of campus commenced on a cold January winters day in the year 2024, as I walked through the snow in my large winter coat for almost 20 mins looking for my class, I was surely lost in the immensely large campus. York University itself is a vast and prestigious institution. Its size can be overwhelming at first, but it also offers a sense of being part of something grand. The resources available to students are immense, from libraries stocked with the latest research materials to various student support services. Being part of such a prestigious institution also adds a level of credibility and recognition to one's qualifications, something I truly value.
From the moment I stepped into York University, I was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities. The classrooms are equipped with advanced technology, creating an environment conducive to modern learning. The faculty, with their extensive knowledge and practical experience, significantly enhanced my learning journey.
What does the York University Digital Media Program offer?
The Digital Media program itself is in-depth and comprehensive. It covers a wide range of topics essential for anyone looking to excel in the digital marketing field. The courses on marketing strategies, content creation, and social media navigation were particularly enlightening. I learned how to craft compelling content, engage with audiences on various platforms, and troubleshoot website analytics effectively. These skills are not only theoretical but also highly practical, giving me the confidence to apply them in real-world scenarios and help elevate the digital marketing I was already carrying out for my family business.
The challenges I faced during studying
One of the initial challenges I faced was the commute. Living in Etobicoke meant that I had to endure a one-and-a-half-hour journey involving two train rides to reach the campus. This daily grind was exhausting and time-consuming. However, this challenge was short-lived as I moved closer to the school five month later, significantly reducing my travel time and allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the commute.
However, the program wasn't all smooth sailing. One of my teachers had a habit of arriving late and predominantly used examples that catered to the majority of Indian students in the class which were the majority ethnic group in the whole campus, which I found somewhat limiting. Despite this, the overall quality of instruction was outstanding, and the diverse perspectives of the other professors greatly contributed to my understanding of the subject matter.
What advice I would give for future students?
Looking back at my journey, I have a few pieces of advice for future students considering the Digital Media program at York University School of Continuing Studies. First and foremost, embrace the diversity of the program. The diverse student body and faculty bring in a multitude of perspectives that can significantly enrich your learning experience. Secondly, be prepared for the challenges, particularly if you are commuting from a distance. Planning your living arrangements to be closer to the campus can save you a lot of time and energy.
Additionally, take full advantage of the resources available at the university. Engage with your professors, participate in discussions, and utilise the library and other support services. These resources are there to help you succeed, so make the most of them. Lastly, approach your studies with an open mind and a willingness to learn. My grades were an array of A+’s, A’s and B+’s which is a further testament to how much I loved learning through this program. The field of digital media is dynamic and constantly evolving, and staying adaptable and curious will serve you well both during your studies and in your future career.
In conclusion, my experience at York School of Continuing Studies has been a blend of challenges and rewarding learning experiences. Despite the hurdles, the knowledge and skills I have gained are invaluable. The Digital Media program has equipped me with the tools needed to excel in the digital marketing field, and I am confident that future students will find the same level of enrichment and growth as I had. Embrace the journey, leverage the resources, and be prepared to learn and grow in ways you never imagined.
