My name is Vikhyat Aggarwal, and I am an international student from India. I arrived in Canada in December 2022 to pursue a Post-Graduate Certificate in Business Administration at York University. After completing this course, I continued my studies with a Post-Graduate Certificate in Digital and Content Marketing, which I am about to finish as I am in my last semester. This journey has been a roller-coaster ride, filled with challenges and growth, and I'd like to share my experiences and advice for future students considering this path.
Initial Experience
Arriving in a new country and adapting to a different culture is never easy. My first day at York University was filled with emotions ranging from excitement to nervousness. The vast Keele campus in Toronto was awe-inspiring, and navigating the long transit journey from Markham was tiring but fairly easy. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find a subway station right inside the campus, making commuting much simpler.
I decided to choose York University after thorough research. The university's three campuses offered a diverse and vibrant environment, which was appealing to me as an international student. The affordable tuition fees and positive reviews from alumni, including a former student I connected with on LinkedIn, were mainly the significant factors that led me to this university.
Academic Experience
York University's curriculum is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of subjects, with only two courses running simultaneously per semester. This structure allowed me to focus deeply on my studies while managing other responsibilities, such as part-time job. The faculty at York is exceptional, with professors like Rovena Aga, Faisal Yousuf, and Tim Campbell who always try to make learning engaging and interactive. Guest lectures are a regular feature at York university, bringing industry experts to share their insights and experiences. These sessions are invaluable for gaining industry knowledge and networking opportunities.
Difficulties and Prospective
Although the academic framework at York is strengthening, there remains room for development. Lack of placements or internships offered by the institution might influence professional development. Students should be aggressive in looking for chances to further their careers and get useful experience. Despite these obstacles, the given education is excellent. Although the Digital and Content Marketing program gave me skills like SEO, SEM, and content marketing strategy, the Post-Graduate Certificate in Business Administration set a great basis for my work. The curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry leaders, which ensures that we are prepared for the demands of the job market.
Finding a Good Balance as an International Student
Studies, work, and personal life was hard to balance for me as a foreign student. Transitioning to living on my own in a new place required flexibility and strength. Being able to handle my tasks well has been made easier by York University's flexible curriculum. Being able to easily take the subway from Markham to the Keele street made travelling to school less stressful at first. Later, I learned to enjoy the trip and use it as a chance to think and get ready for the next day.
Networking and Building Connections
Networking is an essential part of the university experience, and York University provides ample opportunities to connect with industry professionals. The guest lectures and events are perfect for building a strong network, which can be invaluable for career growth. I've found that actively engaging with peers and professors has enriched my learning experience. The diverse backgrounds of my classmates have broadened my perspectives, allowing me to learn from their unique insights and experiences.
Advice for Future Students
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For those considering York University, here are a few pieces of advice based on my experience:
- Do Your Research: Before committing to anything take the time to research the programs and connect with alumni to get a sense of what they've been through. It can give you an idea of what to expect.
- Embrace the Challenges: Moving to a country and adjusting to an education system can feel overwhelming. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Build Your Network: Attend guest lectures and networking events to meet professionals in your field. Creating a network can open up doors for career prospects.
- Take Initiative: While York University offers quality education it's essential for students to actively seek internships and hands on experiences. This will boost your resume. Prepare you for the job market.
- Maintain a Work Life Balance: Juggling academics, work commitments and personal life can be tough. Use the flexibility in your schedule wisely to manage your responsibilities.
Conclusion
My time at York University has changed me in many ways, helping me grow as a person and as a student. The education I've had has given me the skills and courage to go after the job I want. There are some things that could be done better, but generally, the experience has been valuable and satisfying. York University gives a unique mix of excellent academics and chances to grow as a person to people who want to go there. You can get the most out of your time here and set yourself up for a great job if you know how to do it.
I would love to hear your thoughts! If you have any questions about my experience or tips for navigating life as an international student, please leave a comment below.
