Real Side of York University: My Ice-Breaking Experience

I am Priyahans Gaur, a Full-time student presently enrolled in Digital and Content Marketing at York University School of Continuing Studies. My experience at York University was quite an icebreaker as I got to experience something more than what I expected and some other things a little less than what I imagined. Dive in with me and see the real side of York University School of Continuing Studies.

Things That Impressed Me

A Campus Like No Other

The campus of York University speaks volumes. From the very entrance, the blend of modern architecture with green spaces lends an ambiance that is inspiring for learning and development. The university invests properly in infrastructure to make sure its students have the very best facilities. There are study spaces all around the campus which are comfortable, allowing students to find that perfect spot that matches one's study needs. The mix of the old and new architecture on the campus plays a story of growth and progress, which is why York University is a place that really is unique to study at. 

The Commute: Not as Bad as You Think

One of the most striking features of the York University campus, in my experience, is its commutability. The university is located in the most prime area of all and is easily accessible by all modes of transportation. You can reach the campus easily by car, bike, or public transport—whichever suits you best. Direct service of several routes of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) buses and subway lines facilitates the prompt reaching of the campus for classes for students residing in any part of the city.

Fee Structure and Quality of Education

The Fees that York University School of Continuing Studies charges for a Post Graduate Diploma course are much cheaper than what other colleges/universities demand. Don’t think that York University charges lower fees for the courses so they must have an average curriculum. The quality of education is not compromised at all. They have top-class faculties available and the course material they teach with, it’s always available to the students to make it easy for them to understand everything that has been taught in the class. The Faculty is also reachable to students through email making it easier for students to clear doubts about assignments. 

Things That Need Improvement

The Diversity Dilemma  

Enrolling at York University School of Continuing Studies was a decision that got me thrilled with the thought of meeting people from all over the world. It is for this reason that I look forward to the richness in diversity that comes from having different cultures and perspectives in one environment. However, my experience has been somewhat different. Furthermore, as soon as I began my course, it became clear to me that majority of the students are from India. While learning about various states and cultures of India can be fascinating, the expected touch of global diversity was apparently missing. This was a little discouraging partly due to Canada’s multicultural nature, particularly regarding Toronto.

The Challenge of Randomly Assigned Course Schedules

Students at the School of Continuing Studies are faced with timetable restrictions. There is not a lot of flexibility for choosing our own time slots for the courses offered. This restriction effects students who wishes to work with their studies going on side by side. In these cases, students had to juggle both tasks simultaneously with the overlap in course timings and job hours. More often than not, such a situation gives way to much stress and struggles in finding ways of balancing academic and professional responsibility by themselves, with no accommodation or school support in terms of scheduling. Thus, the rigid scheduling system is a severe problem for the student in balancing effectively between education and employment.

Advise for Future Students

Being a current student in the Digital and Content Marketing program at York University School of Continuing Studies, there are a few things that I have learned, which I would like to share with future students. First of all, make full use of the amazing campus and all its ultra-modern facilities. The location of the university and high accessibility to public transport make getting around very easy via TTC buses and subways. On the financial side, York offers good education at an affordable cost, so make sure to utilize all the resources and course materials you can to get maximum value for your money. It may not turn out to be as international in its population, as was expected of it, but relations with students in class can help learn about cultures. Keeping up with the schedule can become a problem due to fixed course timings; therefore, it is essential to plan and communicate with the instructors beforehand. Embrace the journey, rich with its mix of opportunities and challenges, seek help when necessary, and you shall find York University to be that place of growth and inspiration, just as I did.

Conclusion

My journey at York University School of Continuing Studies has been a mix of pleasant surprises and unforeseen challenges. Such an inspiring campus, with its modern architecture blending into the green spaces, easily accessed by commuting, and high-quality yet extremely budget-friendly education options make it very alluring to many. Still, it is faced with highly significant problems for students who seek a balanced academic and professional life: not enough diversity in terms of students from overseas origins and rigid scheduling.

Everything has been fairly smooth so far because of the friendly environment on campus and a robust educational framework. York University School of Continuing Studies is an energetic place for growth and learning undergoing progressive improvement. If one decides on this way forward, it gives an exceptional mix of opportunities and challenges that may shape a well-rounded educational experience.

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