Starting my journey at York School of Continuing Studies was an exciting and transformative experience. In this blog, I will share my experiences and provide some advice for future students to help them make the most of their time at York.
1. First Impressions and Orientation
When I visited the campus during orientation, I felt that York was the right place for me. The introduction to the software and modules we would be learning made me excited to start my courses. The modern infrastructure and the welcoming atmosphere added to my positive first impression.
Alt text: A woman stands smiling in front of a large, illuminated "YORKU SCS" sign
2. Comparing Experiences: Humber vs. York
Coming from Humber College, where there were many fun activities organized by the Ignite group, my expectations were high. At Humber, we enjoyed activities like playing on the claw machine, painting, making fridge magnets, playing video games, karaoke, sledging in winter, and enjoying free food. After lectures, we often went cycling near the lake on campus.
At York, however, there were fewer such activities. We attended lectures, and after that, everyone made their own plans. Even though York had a different vibe, focusing more on academics, my experience there was still good. The shift from a fun-filled environment to a more academically inclined one was challenging, but it helped me grow.
Alt text: Four friends are taking a selfie while biking on a path near a bridge, surrounded by greenery.
3. Making Connections and Overcoming Challenges
On the first day of lectures at York, I tried to connect with everyone but didn't make any friends right away. However, during my first group assignment, I started bonding with my group members, and these connections continued beyond our academic work. Despite some initial setbacks with friendships, I eventually found a group to hang out with. We enjoyed spending time at York lanes in "My break room" playing air hockey, pool, basketball, and DanceDance Revolution. One of the most memorable experiences was celebrating Holi, the festival of colors from back home, with my friends. These activities helped in building strong connections and made the overall experience enjoyable.
Alt text: A group of six friends is taking a selfie on a dock by the water, with a sunny, clear sky in the background.
Alt text: A group of friends enjoying a Holi celebration! Everyone having a great time, bundled up in warm clothes and smiling for the camera
4. Balanced Learning and Skill Development at York
The academic experience at York was unique and enriching. Without traditional exams, I felt less pressure and could focus on presentations and assignments. This balance allowed me to develop new skills and pursue various certificate courses on LinkedIn, enhancing both my personal and professional growth.
5. Utilizing Support Services
York offers various support services, including KeepMeSafe and Student counseling, Health & Well-being. I started using the mental health service in July, and it significantly improved my well-being within just three sessions. I regretted not using these services earlier and highly recommend that future students take advantage of them. These services are designed to support students in managing stress and maintaining their mental health, which is crucial for academic success.
6. Building Confidence and Skills
Regular presentations at York helped me gain confidence and improve my public speaking skills. Initially, I was quite nervous about speaking in front of a large audience, but with each presentation, I became more comfortable and articulate. One memorable experience was presenting a social media marketing strategy to Professor Kanak, which was both challenging and rewarding. Additionally, attending guest lectures, such as those by Professor Andrews, provided valuable insights and broadened my perspective. These opportunities were instrumental in developing my communication skills and boosting my confidence in presenting in front of an audience.
7. Exceptional Coordination
Our course coordinator, Todd, was very supportive. He always replied to emails quickly, so we never had to wait long for help. I remember emailing Todd about getting a refund for a credit transfer. He handled it fast, making the process easy and stress-free. His quick and helpful responses made my time at York much better.
8. Learning New Tools and Technologies
Throughout my course, I acquired new skills in tools like Hootsuite, HubSpot, Google AdWords, and SEO. Currently, in Professor Andrews' class, we are learning more about CRM, which is incredibly beneficial for my career in digital marketing. These tools and technologies are essential for anyone pursuing a career in digital marketing, and learning them has given me a competitive edge.
9. Building a Support System
A significant part of my survival kit at York was my best friend and safety net, Pooja Kotak. Having her by my side throughout this journey at York and Humber made the experience more manageable and enjoyable. Having a reliable support system makes a significant difference in your academic journey, providing both emotional support and practical assistance.
Alt text: Two friends smiling and hugging each other outdoors.
10. Favourite Lectures
I must mention that I particularly enjoyed lectures by Tim and Kanak. Their teaching styles were engaging, and I found their sessions to be the most insightful and enjoyable. They made the lectures so interesting and easy to understand, which made learning a pleasure rather than a task.
Advice for Future Students
- Engage in Group Activities: Participate actively in group assignments and social activities. It's a great way to build friendships and enhance your learning experience.
- Utilize Support Services: Make use of mental health and support services available. They are designed to help you succeed and maintain your well-being.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of your assignments and deadlines. Staying organized will help you manage your time effectively and reduce stress.
- Be Open to Learning: Embrace the unique learning style at York. Focus on understanding the material and applying it practically through assignments and presentations.
- Network: Attend guest lectures and network with industry professionals. These connections can be valuable for your future career.
Conclusion
My time at York School of Continuing Studies has been rewarding. The supportive environment, innovative learning methods, and the opportunity to build lasting friendships have made my journey memorable. To future students, I encourage you to immerse yourself fully in the experience and take advantage of all the resources available. York provides an excellent platform for personal and professional growth, and I am confident you will find your journey as fulfilling as I have found mine.
