The York School of Continuing Studies is a community with a diverse nature of learning and a sense of belongingness that is united by a shared sense of purpose. With ongoing market fluctuating dynamics, it is evident to see a rapidly changing career and educational landscape with people aiming for professional growth and achieving personal goals. It offers innovative, accessible and accelerated programs that cater to students to adapt and generate responses to this change which resulted in rendering them as outstanding, fast-growing schools in Canada.
The design of this program and the model is really remarkable as the unique and cohort delivery of the program to students can advance them as it aligns well with their peers, ensuring them for a healthy sense of connectivity with their classmates and mentors and grow on professional grounds for a stronger and a meaningful base for future ahead.
To give direction to the traffic I had to possess my management skills and mindset I got myself enrolled in Journalism and Mass Communication at Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, IP University for my graduation which paved my way toward the field of marketing. From learning about Journalism, Photography, designing, Marketing and more I was most infatuated with marketing and hence I decided to gain experience in Influencer marketing keeping today's world in mind. Doing a corporate job in India for almost a year allowed me to learn how the backend of the brands works on social media and how it makes a huge impact on consumers. While finishing my graduation and working for almost a year in a corporation I finally decided to not stop my studies and move abroad to learn more about marketing hence I enrolled myself in my Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management at Centennial College where I learned the history of marketing, Brand Management, Market Research and more…… I got an opportunity to meet new people from all over the world and learn from them for 8 months in a classroom where we had our own share of good and bad experiences be in terms of friendship or studying. I made some amazing friends for a lifetime while few chaze an opportunity and flew back to their home country in the middle of the semester which did made me wonder if I ever got an opportunity back home would I seek it or stay back here struggle, learn and grow here? Guess what I will always choose to stay here and make the best out of it!
(Alt Text- Centennial Students happily celebrating & getting clicked for their class of 2024 batch graduation ceremony)
My road ahead was embarked well when I pursued the Digital and Content Marketing course on my journey at York University School of Continuing Studies. This decision is rooted in my desire for personal and professional growth. Everything synced perfectly from the moment I stepped onto the campus. Yes, I am talking about my Orientation day here! I was late as I did not know which building to enter, how to get there but I eventually found my way and got here. I met a few amazing people at my table where I was sitting, I vividly remember the table was almost full of students and everyone was on their phone and I thought of starting the conversation and asking for which course they are enrolled in and is it their 1st course or 2nd as it was my 2nd course in Canada, they said it's their 1st course and that's how we started talking and it turned out most of them were here for digital and content marketing course with the same batch timing as mine! I was happy to know that I will not be alone here and I would have a few familiar faces when the class starts.
I was welcomed with an atmosphere of inclusivity and an aura of ambition, a perfect combo to motivate whatever you are looking forward to. Learning thrived here! A place with a dedicated student body and inspiring faculty led to a workspace where my experience at York offered me a wealth of knowledge, transformation, networking opportunities and development (I am in my last semester and I can say with confidence that I have grown as a person in my personal and professional life).
Though I am having great learning experience at York University School of Continuing Studies, being an English Language Institute it had a multicultural English school. My classmates shared different backgrounds as a Few belonged to different countries which served as a great exposure to us and most of them belonged to India (from where I am) yet we had different cultural backgrounds, Language is a barrier to all cultural differences which was resolved by the English language, it bridged for us to communicate with each other.
Unlike any other significant time at York university, this was not without any challenges. Balancing professional and personal life, coursework with other responsibilities inclusive of work and family, requires time management and unwavering focus. The standards for academics, rigorous in nature, helped in pushing the bar and step out of that comfort bubble that would endeavour for excellence.
In my previous college, I was given an option to choose my schedule, timing and subject professors too but the environment here provided me with no such options. I was given the schedule with timing from 3:30-6:30pm every day from Monday to Thursday which was not flexible for me keeping my work schedule in mind. I did apply to request to change my batch timing for the morning but it was not approved (lowkey glad now!).
Lastly, many opportunities were being missed as students we faced in York School of Continuing Studies in comparison to if we were studying under direct York University like when it comes to take advantages of the resources provided on campus like gyming, swimming and other sports- we are asked to pay abit extra than the students direct under york which should not be there. I feel we who study at york school of continuing studies are treated abit different and unfairly in respect to who study here as a graduate student at york university.
(Alt Text- Class group Photo with Professor after great presentation)
Let me talk about my experience, it's a place that offers a supportive and dynamic atmosphere, creating an ideal learning environment at York University School of Continuing Studies. All the Professors who I had an opportunity to learn from are exceptional. Their expertise, behaviour and experience in their respective fields is Amazing. Few Professors genuinely and wealthy invested it in our success. They used to bring real-world experience both relevant and engaging into the classroom, making the learning process a fun retaining experience.
Every Professors who I’ve had are all well experienced and make sure we can know about all the opportunities available to us so it helps us a step forward towards our career. York School of Continuing Studies do give chances to their own students and I am saying this with a proof as I had the chance to learn from one of the professors who was a student here (1st batch of this course). Not only this, my other Professors also tell us about different opportunity on a regular basis so that we dont miss out any chance we can have.
To enhance the learning experience, York University has well equipped its campus with state-of-the-art facilities. We have everything we could possibly need from modern classrooms to comprehensive libraries. Additionally, abiding by the policies and practices, the university’s commitment to inclusivity is evident, ensuring that every student feels valued and respected.
One of the things I loved the most are Collaborative projects that led to creation of team building behaviour and leadership skills. These projects allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. The friendships and professional connections I’ve made through these times are priceless..
So, if you’re considering York University, just know that you’re in for a supportive and dynamic learning environment where you can really thrive.
In my opinion, the York University school of continuing studies has a good education system and professional teachers. They know me now, so they aid me well in improving my skills. Many people recommended the Institute to me, especially for international students because it offers a balanced and effective learning experience. The schedule is designed for students to attend lectures for only three hours at a time, typically split into two classes. This reduces pressure allowing for better focus during classes and providing ample of time for other activities specially for part-time work (it’s an important factor as an international student). The supportive environment helps me improve my skills, fosters growth and encourages a well-rounded lifestyle.
The ultimate guide of what my experiences says regarding this:
1. Resources are the treasure you are served there whether it’s the library, academic advising, or career services, it offers a display of services designed to help you succeed.
2. Engage in discussions both inside and outside the classroom, attending networking events, and join student groups to have better learning and this would help in building relationships with faculty, peers, and industry professionals that can open doors to new opportunities.
3. Take advantage of the diversity, distinct perspectives you are having. Encourage the engagement with your fellow people from different backgrounds to enrich and broaden your worldview.
4. Stay Organized: Develop a schedule that allows you to manage your time effectively. Prioritize your tasks and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re struggling.
5. Approach your studies with a curious mind. Keep curiosity high and don’t just aim for good grades; seek to understand and apply what you learn.
Conclusion:
I am elated to reflect on my time at York University School of Continuing Studies which would be a help to many of you! I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and opportunities I had during my journey. The challenges I faced had only made me better than before and the growth I experienced has prepared me for the best ahead.
To future students, I say: Keep your heart and mind open for this journey. For a undoubtedly rewarding experience you are supposed to make the most of it. York University School of Continuing Studies offers a unique space where you can learn and thrive. Extract a valuable education with memories and skills that will last a lifetime. Create Memories for a lifetime, Friends who will be your side even after you finish your studies and connections that will last longer than you imagine.