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Alt Text - York U in winter
Embarking on a journey at York University School of Continuing Studies (YUSCS) has been nothing short of a transformative experience. From battling snowstorms to celebrating milestones, my time here has been a roller coaster of learning, growth, and unforgettable memories. As I approach the end of my program, I want to share my experiences and offer some valuable insights to future students who are ready to embark on their adventure at this esteemed institution.
The Icy Beginning: My First Course
My journey at York began in the heart of winter, with my first course in Public Relations. It was January, and the snow outside was relentless. My classes ended at 9:45 PM, leaving me to face the biting cold and snowy nights. One evening, after a class, I found myself stuck in a snowstorm with a few of my classmates. But what could have been a stressful situation turned into one of my fondest memories. We huddled together, finding warmth in shared stories, laughter, and impromptu discussions about our course, future goals and hobbies. We ended up staying at the university until late, but instead of feeling stranded, we felt a sense of togetherness that only such spontaneous moments can bring. That night taught me an invaluable lesson and taught me the importance of forming connections and building a network—you never know when you might need it!
The Joy of My First Convocation
One of the most memorable milestones in my York journey was my convocation. Having graduated during the pandemic, I missed out on the traditional graduation ceremony back home. My convocation at York was, therefore, my first ever, walking across the stage in my cap and gown, and hearing my name called, was an experience I will cherish forever. It brought back the journey that had brought me here—the challenges, the late-night study sessions, and, of course, the friendships that had made the entire experience worthwhile.
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Alt Text - York U convocation day with my friends.
Coffee Breaks at Tims: More Than Just Coffee
If there’s one thing that I look back on with fondness, it’s the coffee breaks at Tim Hortons on campus. These breaks were more than just a chance to grab a cup of coffee—they were moments of connection, where we could relax, chat, and get to know each other outside the classroom setting. It was during one of these coffee breaks that I met one of my closest friends at York. t became a ritual for us to meet up at Tim Hortans before or after class.
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Alt Text - Me and my friend enjoying at the campus.
Trending Insights: Industry Experts Spill the Tea
One of the greatest aspects of my program has been the incredible industry connections that our professors brought into the classroom. We had the privilege of learning from guest speakers from top companies like Amazon, Spotify, and even Google. Hearing their stories, understanding the challenges they faced, and gaining insights into the latest trends—especially in areas like artificial intelligence—was eye-opening. These sessions were more than just lectures; they were opportunities to ask questions, seek advice, and gain perspectives that we couldn’t find in textbooks. For anyone considering YUSCS, I cannot stress enough the importance of attending these guest lectures and networking events. They offer a wealth of knowledge and can open doors to potential job opportunities down the line.
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Alt Text - Professor giving a lecture in class
Low-Key Struggles: York U's Not-So-Instagrammable Moments
While my experience at York has been positive, it hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the difficulties I encountered was a lack of awareness about the resources available to students. For instance, it took me some time to discover basic services like printing and digital tools such as the free Microsoft Office Suite and LinkedIn Learning. These resources, while immensely helpful, were not well-publicized, and I only started using them later in my program. Another challenge was the upfront fee payment structure. Unlike other institutions that offer semester-wise payments, York requires the full course fee upfront. As an international student, this was a significant financial burden, and it’s something future students should be aware of when planning their budgets.
Level Up Your YorkU Game: Tips for Thriving at the School of Continuing Studies
As you prepare to start your journey at York University School of Continuing Studies, here are a few pieces of advice to help you make the most of your time here:
Plan Your Finances: As an international student, managing finances can be tricky, especially with York’s upfront fee payment structure. Make sure you plan your budget carefully, considering all costs involved. While York is cost-effective compared to other universities, it’s still important to have a financial plan in place to avoid any surprises.
Plan Your Career Early: Start thinking about your career goals from the beginning of your program. Set academic and professional goals, and develop a strategic plan to achieve them. This will not only help you stay focused but also ensure that you’re taking the right steps toward your desired career path.
Embrace Networking Opportunities: Building a strong network is crucial for success in today’s job market. Take advantage of every opportunity to engage with alumni, industry professionals, and your peers. Attend networking events, connect on LinkedIn, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people who can offer guidance and open doors for you.
Don’t Miss Out on Campus Life: While academics are important, don’t forget to enjoy your time on campus. Participate in university events, and take the time to explore what York has to offer. These activities are not just about having fun—they’re opportunities to learn new skills, meet people, and make your university experience richer and more fulfilling.
Alt Text - Me and my friends giving a presentation in the class
The York U Saga: A Finale Worth Celebrating
As my time at York University School of Continuing Studies comes to a close, I'm overflowing with gratitude for every moment spent here. The obstacles, the friendships, the late-night study sessions, and the celebrations have all been part of an incredible journey of growth and transformation. For those about to embark on this journey, my advice is to dive in with an open mind and heart. York U isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about gaining an experience that will shape you in ways you might not expect. Seize every opportunity and forge meaningful connections. Your York experience will be what you make of it, so make it unforgettable!
Alt Text - My yorkU id card.
