Hey everyone! My name is Tushar and I'm an international student from the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, India. If you've ever been there, you know what I mean by bustling – it's a city that never sleeps! Anyway, after graduating with my bachelor's degree and dipping my toes into the working world for a few months, I decided to take a leap and pursue a post-graduate program in Canada. Why Canada? Well, the maple syrup is great, of course, but more importantly, I wanted to explore the exciting world of marketing, specifically Digital and Content marketing.
Why York SCS & The Digital Content Marketing Program?
While researching programs, I kept coming across York University's School of Continuing Studies (SCS) Digital and Content Marketing program. What initially drew me in was its focus on practical skills and industry knowledge. Coming from a non-marketing background, I didn't just want theory; I wanted to learn how to actually do things.
Finding My Tribe (Even Though Most Spoke Hindi!)
One thing that surprised me (but maybe shouldn't have!) was the number of fellow Indian students in the program. Let's just say the stereotype about Indians and higher education in Canada holds some truth! But hey, that just meant a ready-made group of friends who understood the whole "adjusting to a new country" thing. We quickly bonded over smoke breaks (because let's face it, can we survive without our vaporizers?), scratching our head over the exchange rate (everything seems expensive here!), and of course, our shared love for cheesy Bollywood songs. House parties with Bollywood anthems became a regular occurrence – let's just say the neighbors got a healthy dose of desi beats! And then there was someone who made me realize that I love techno music too and that it can be really vibey.
The Perfect Blend: Course Structure & Professors
One of the things I absolutely loved about the program was the course structure. Unlike some programs that cram 6-7 courses into a single semester, York SCS kept things manageable. We focused on two courses every two months, with a break in between. This allowed for a deeper dive into each subject without feeling overwhelmed.
The professors themselves were a real highlight. We had a great mix – some with extensive industry experience and others who were more academically focused. Now, I won't lie, there were a couple of professors whose lectures could lull even the most enthusiastic student to sleep. (But hey, everyone has their teaching style!)
However, there were also some real gems. Professor Rovena, for instance, had this incredible ability to make even the most complex concepts crystal clear. She was very calm in every aspect. Her real-life examples were spot-on, and she had a way of explaining things that just made sense. You could tell her years of experience were truly paying off!
Then there was Professor Timothe – the complete opposite of Professor Rovena (in the best way possible!). His classes were always lively and engaging. He had this infectious energy that made even the most mundane topics interesting. Imagine trying to explain website analytics – a topic that could put even the most enthusiastic student to sleep. Yet, Professor Tim would weave in hilarious anecdotes and pop culture references that had us all engaged and laughing. Plus, his debates in class were legendary – I swear, I learned more from those friendly arguments than I did from some textbooks! The only caveat? He wasn't afraid to be strict with assignments, so don't be fooled by his playful demeanor and make sure you put in the hard work! Professor Tim was a tough grader. He expected nothing less than our best work, and his assignments were no joke. This one, which I’m currently doing, felt like a disaster in the beginning, though I know I’m acing it now. There were times when we'd walk out of his class both exhilarated from the engaging discussion and slightly terrified about the upcoming deadline. But yea, that just pushed us to work harder and learn the material inside and out. In the end, his strictness paid off. We emerged from his class with a solid grasp of the concepts and the ability to apply them in the real world.
College Life: A Glimpse into York
The SCS building itself felt a bit separate from the main York University campus. While there weren't a ton of on-site activities for SCS students specifically, we did have access to all the facilities in the main building – the library, study spaces, and even the infamous printing services. Yes, everything here seems to cost money, from playing pool with friends to printing a simple document. But that's just a part of the Canadian experience, right?
Speaking of experiences, York Lanes became our after-class haven. This food court offered a delicious array of cuisines, perfect for grabbing a bite with friends after class. And let's not forget the stunning campus itself. Stepping out of the (admittedly very cool-looking) subway station, you're greeted with a beautiful scenic view that's truly a sight to behold.
Bonds That Last a Lifetime
One of the most valuable takeaways from my time at York SCS has been the friendships I've made. Despite being the youngest in our group (shocking, I know!), I learned a ton from my peers. Their diverse work experiences in India gave me valuable insights into the industry, not to mention some stellar life advice (including the occasional relationship tip – a well-rounded education is key!). We may have come from different backgrounds, but our shared passion for marketing and our same taste in music forged a bond that I know will last a lifetime.
Looking Forward & Advice for Future Students
As I wrap up my program at York SCS, many ups and downs, which are obviously a part of life. But I can honestly say it's been an incredible journey. I’ve grown both personally and professionally. The program equipped me with the skills and knowledge, I need to thrive in the Digital Marketing world.
Here's my advice for future students:
- Do your research: Choose a program that aligns with your career goals and learning style. York SCS's focus on practical skills was a perfect fit for me.
- Embrace the diversity: You'll likely meet people from all walks of life. See it as an opportunity to learn from different perspectives.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions: Professors are there to help you succeed. Don't hesitate to clarify doubts or seek guidance.
- Strike a balance between academics and social life: Study hard, but also make time to explore Toronto and connect with your classmates.
- Enjoy the ride: This is an exciting time in your life. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and soak up every experience.
If you're looking for a program that will give you the practical skills and industry knowledge you need to succeed in digital marketing, then York SCS's Digital and Content Marketing program is worth considering. It's been an amazing experience, and I can't wait to see what the future holds!
P.S. Don't forget to budget for those printing costs – trust me, they add up!
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