My Learnings as an International Student at York SCS

Figure 1/Alt text- A red neon sign with the words "Yorkscs" written in it. The sign is lit up and reflected in the floor.

Hi to all of you! I'm Karthikeyan Nantha Kumar, an international student from India who is enrolled in the School of Continuing Studies (SCS) at York University. To provide guidance to anyone who might be pursuing a similar route, I would like to discuss my experiences as an international student at York SCS today.

A World of Opportunity: Embracing Life at York SCS

It was a leap of faith, mixed with excitement and a little anxiety, to come study in Canada. I was welcomed right away by York SCS because of its varied student body and emphasis on professional development. I was able to establish a closer connection with both teachers and students because of the more engaged learning atmosphere that was created by the smaller class numbers in comparison to traditional colleges. The industrial experience and knowledge of the professors really enhanced my learning.

The Power of Networking: Building Bridges Beyond Classrooms

Figure 2/Alt text: “A photo of a conference room with rows of chairs and attendees seated, listening to a presentation on stage."

York SCS's emphasis on networking has been one of the major joys of my experience. The school actively arranges industry seminars, workshops, and guest lecturers to help students network with possible employers. Attending these events and stepping outside of my comfort zone changed my life. In meeting with experts, I acquired useful presenting and communication skills and gained understanding of the Canadian employment market. Additionally, during my two semesters, I attended the presentations of at least ten guest speakers, which provided me with firsthand knowledge of the employment market.

Beyond Textbooks: The Unexpected Perks

The most rewarding aspect of this experience has been the incredible network of friends I’ve built. York SCS boasts a vibrant international student community. We come from different backgrounds and cultures, but we share a common goal of academic and personal growth.

The exposure to working with other community members provided me with a genuine feel of international studies. Studying with them broadened my perspectives, exposed me to diverse viewpoints, and gave me experience with corporate work culture.

The Part-Time Hustle: A Canadian Work Experience

First Job:
Getting part-time work has proven to be one of networking's most obvious advantages. I was hired by a fellow foreign student at a nearby grocery shop for my first job in Canada. We kept in touch after exchanging contact information at an on-campus event. She introduced me to her roommate, who worked at the grocery shop, after I said that I was looking for a job. This relationship resulted in a job interview and my first employment experience in Canada.

Tim Hortons:

I got my second job at Tim Hortons through networking as well. I said to a classmate that I needed to get some work, during our study session. He was still friendly with the manager from his time working at Tim Hortons. I got employed following a quick meeting that he introduced me to. These encounters emphasized the value of establishing and sustaining relationships as well as the effectiveness of networking.

Advice for Future International Students: Embrace the Journey

If you're considering studying at York SCS, here are some tips to help you navigate your journey:

• Embrace the challenge: It might be intimidating to adjust to a new academic setting and culture. Ask questions, have patience with yourself, and ask mentors and lecturers for assistance. York SCS provides a multitude of resources to assist students from other countries.
• Network actively: Participate in workshops, social activities, and career fairs. Make an introduction to professionals, teachers, and other students. Developing relationships may result in worthwhile internship or employment possibilities. Numerous studies demonstrate the benefits of professional networks, including increased employment and business prospects, deeper and wider knowledge, enhanced ability to innovate, quicker career development, and increased status and authority
• Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone: Participate in group discussions, presentations, and volunteer activities. This will help you build confidence, develop communication skills, and make meaningful connections. My UGC professor used to keep telling me the best place to make mistakes was inside the classroom. I feel that’s right too, because that's the place where you can learn from your mistakes, and the professors won't judge you; instead, they teach you.
• Seek out a support system: Make friends with other foreign students, become involved in school events, and join student clubs. Your experience will be more fulfilling, and your transfer will go more smoothly if you have an encouraging network.
• Explore Canada: Utilize your weekends and breaks to travel to Toronto and other Canadian cities. You'll have a greater comprehension of the nation and its culture as a result.
• LinkedIn Update: Just as we keep our other social media platforms updated with what’s happening in our lives, as international students, we have a responsibility to keep our professional lives updated on LinkedIn. Just like scrolling through Instagram, it’s important to regularly check LinkedIn to stay informed about the job market and professional opportunities.

The Takeaway: A Fulfilling Experience

My journey at York SCS has been a transformative one. It has not only equipped me with valuable academic knowledge and professional skills but also exposed me to new cultures, broadened my horizons, and helped me build lifelong friendships.

To all future international students, I leave you with this: embrace the challenges, actively seek opportunities, and remember to enjoy the ride.

“Classroom is the place to make mistake’s”

Your time at York SCS will be an enriching and unforgettable experience that will shape your future!

Reference:

https://hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking