Hey everyone! š So, let me take you on a little journey through my time at York University School of Continuing Studies. Moving to a new country and starting a new chapter has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride š¢. From excitement to anxiety and everything in between, hereās a glimpse into my life at YorkU!
Arrival in Canada
I arrived in Canada on January 2nd, and man, it felt unreal! āļø The cold, crisp air hit me like a slap in the face, so different from the warm climate I was used to back home in India. The streets were covered in snow, looking like they were straight out of a holiday movie. I was like, "Is this for real?!" This was the beginning of my big adventure.
First Impressions of York University
One of the first things on my list was to visit York University's campus. I'd seen it in so many vlogs and photos, but seeing it in person was a whole different story. My friend, who had been in Canada for a while, agreed to show me around. As we got closer to the campus, I could feel my heart pounding. I was so excited! š
The campus was even more beautiful than I had imagined. The mix of modern and historical buildings, the meticulously maintained gardens, and the vibrant atmosphere were amazing. Walking through the iconic Vari Hall felt like I was in a dream. I was completely awestruck by the size and beauty of it all. Seriously,couldn't believe I was finally here! š¤©
Capturing Memories
The York University campus is incredibly photogenic. I spent hours wandering around, snapping pictures of everything. šø The stunning architecture, serene landscapes, and lively student life made for perfect photo ops. I wanted to capture every moment and share it with my family and friends back home.
I remember calling my mom on video and showing her the campus, my classroom, and all the beautiful spots. She was initially sad about me being so far away, but seeing where I was and the life I was building here made her happy. Her words of encouragement and love gave me the strength to keep going, even on the toughest days. ā¤ļø
One day, I decided to explore the campus alone. I found a small pond with ducks swimming around, and I sat by the water's edge, reflecting on my journey so far. I took a few pictures to capture the peaceful moment. These photos became cherished memories, reminders of the incredible adventure I was on.
Flexing to Friends
Of course, I had to show off a bit on social media! š I posted pictures of the campus, the places I visited, and the new friends I made. My friends back in India were super curious and impressed by my new life in Canada. It felt good to show them the world I was now a part of, and it was a great way to stay connected despite the distance.
I remember the excitement of posting my first picture from YorkU. The likes and comments started pouring in, with friends and family expressing their amazement and support. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I had made it this far. The journey hadnāt been easy, but seeing everyoneās reactions made it all worthwhile. š
Adapting to a New Education System
One of the biggest challenges was adapting to a new education system. The teaching methods, classroom dynamics, and expectations were different from what I was used to. I had to learn to manage my time effectively, balancing coursework with part-time work and social activities. There were moments of frustration and self-doubt, but with each passing day, I grew more confident in my abilities. šŖ
The professors at YorkU were more than just educators; they were mentors who guided and supported us throughout our courses. Their real-world experience and insights added immense value to our learning. They challenged us to think critically and push our boundaries, fostering an environment of growth and innovation.
Digital and Content Marketing Course
The Digital and Content Marketing course was a highlight of my time at YorkU. It provided me with practical skills and in-depth knowledge crucial for todayās digital world. We delved into SEO, social media marketing, content creation, and data analytics. The hands-on projects and real-world case studies were incredibly beneficial.
I remember one project where we had to create a full marketing campaign for a real company. The pressure was intense, but seeing our ideas come to life was thrilling. My team and I spent countless hours brainstorming, planning, and executing our campaign. The sleepless nights and passionate debates were worth it when we presented our project and received positive feedback. This course not only prepared me for the professional world but also boosted my confidence in my abilities. š
The Commute and Strikes
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the daily commute. Living far from campus meant dealing with a long and tiring bus ride every day. The 1.5-hour journey each way was exhausting and often left me drained by the time I reached class. If you're thinking of studying at YorkU, I highly recommend living closer to campus to avoid this hassle. Trust me, it makes a huge difference! š
Another major issue was the frequent strikes. Disruptions caused by strikes from TAs, professors, and even food service workers affected classes and reduced dining options. The uncertainty and interruptions were frustrating and made it hard to stay focused on academics. It was a tough time, but I learned to adapt and make the best of the situation.
Seneca: The Unofficial Hangout Spot for YorkU Students
One quirky aspect of studying at York Universityās School of Continuing Studies is the proximity to Seneca College, which has become a popular hangout spot for YorkU studentsāespecially since thereās no Tim Hortons on the YorkU campus. The lack of a Tim Hortons has led many of us to venture over to Seneca, where we can grab our much-needed coffee fix and socialize. But itās not just about the coffeeāSeneca also hosts a lot of fun events, like food festivals and quizzes with exciting prizes. Even though we study at YorkU, many of us participate in these events at Seneca. I even won a shirt in one of their quizzes! This cross-campus connection adds a unique flavor to our daily routine, blending the boundaries between the two institutions and making Seneca an integral part of the YorkU experience
Conclusion
My journey at York University School of Continuing Studies has been a mix of incredible and challenging experiences. I loved the beautiful campus, the variety of dining options, and the valuable knowledge I gained from the Digital and Content Marketing course. However, the long commute, political climate, and frequent strikes were definite drawbacks. Despite these challenges, Iām grateful for the opportunities and experiences Iāve had. I hope the university continues to improve and provide better support for its students.
Overall, my time at York University has been transformative. It equipped me with the skills and knowledge I need for my future career. As I move forward, Iāll carry with me the lessons learned and the experiences gained, always remembering the positive impact York University has had on my personal and professional growth. The friendships Iāve made, the challenges Iāve overcome, and the knowledge Iāve gained have all contributed to shaping who I am today. Looking back, despite the hurdles, I wouldnāt trade this experience for anything. It has been a journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery, and for that, I am profoundly grateful. š