It was the summer of 2023, when I came to visit York University, to meet a dear friend of mine from India. I was awe-struck by the huge campus, beautiful green landscapes, student-friendly atmosphere, cozy cafes, and bustling restaurants nearby. The university painted the perfect picture of student life and this visit sparked a realization in me: This is where I want to spend my next year studying. Having a background in marketing, and eager to pursue a career in Digital Marketing, the post-graduate certificate in Digital and Content Marketing at the York School of Continuing Studies, was the perfect opportunity for me. Hence, in the Winter of 2024, I began my course at York SCS and started my journey towards building a career in Digital Marketing.
It's been almost seven months into this course, and my experience as an international student at York School of Continuing Studies has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride. York SCS has taught me much more than just digital marketing and has enriched me with valuable experiences and skills. It gives me immense pleasure to share my journey and insights, hoping it can be beneficial for future international students planning to study at York School of Continuing Studies. Here are some key highlights of my journey so far:
One of the main reasons I love attending lectures at York University is the professors. Yes, you read it right! The professors here at York SCS come with a wealth of industry experience and knowledge. They help us go beyond the basics and understand the current trends in the marketing industry through real-life examples and case studies. The professors never fail to provide a dynamic learning platform for students, where we not only study the curriculum but also explore industrial insights and concepts.
As a marketing student, I always yearned to put my theoretical knowledge into practice. However, the York School of Continuing Studies has bridged the gap between theory and practice. The post-graduate certificate in Digital and Content marketing is designed to provide the much-needed practical experience through in-class activities, case studies, group discussions, and presentations. This provides an exemplary platform for international students to gain deeper insights into the Canadian business world.
In the present times, meeting new people and building a network is crucial for landing a good job. At York University, I have tried to develop meaningful connections with industry experts through guest lectures, seminars, LinkedIn, and networking events. York SCS provides a great opportunity for students to connect with the right people from the industry and expand their professional network.
York University is equipped with several amenities for students, including libraries, a fitness center, on-campus restaurants, walking trails, and other recreational activities. I often work on assignments with my friends at the Student Centre or work out in the gym at Tait McKenzie Centre. My go-to spot during free time is York Lanes, which has a variety of cafes and activities for students to enjoy.
I am a big foodie who loves to explore various food outlets. York University never fails to impress with its endless food options. After long lectures, I love exploring exquisite cafes and other food joints with my friends, sharing food, gossip, and laughter!
I’ve had an incredible experience at York SCS where I gained valuable knowledge, built meaningful connections, and had the opportunity to grow personally while exploring everything that the campus has to offer. Reflecting on my experience as an international student, I’ve put together a few pieces of advice that could help future students as they start their journey at York School of Continuing Studies:
Before enrolling in a course at the York School of Continuing Studies, conduct thorough research on the course, its structure, and deliverables. Connecting with alumni via LinkedIn can provide valuable insights into their learning experience and help you make an informed decision.
York SCS offers a plethora of networking opportunities. Make sure to take advantage of these opportunities to build meaningful connections. Apart from the on-campus events, leverage your LinkedIn profile as a powerful networking tool. Another great way to expand your network is by participating in various professional events across the city. Here's an interesting article on how to build a professional network from scratch.
As international students, managing assignments, household chores, and part-time jobs can be challenging. The key here is to strike a balance by prioritizing your tasks and managing your time effectively.
It’s natural to feel lonely or homesick as an international student. Constant deadlines and other commitments can also affect your mental health. Make time for yourself by engaging in activities such as walking, meditating, hitting the gym, or exercising for at least 30 minutes a day. Stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for maintaining good mental well-being.
Staying away from home can be a daunting experience for many. However, building meaningful friendships can make a big difference. Participate in community events organized by York University to meet like-minded individuals to create valuable relationships.
Looking back, my journey at York School of Continuing Studies has been both challenging and rewarding. For those who are about to embark on this journey, embrace every opportunity, stay proactive, take care of your mental health, and build strong connections. Your experience at York will be as rewarding as you make it!