When you are the most pampered child in your family, life feels like an Ace of Hearts, full of love, warmth, comfort, ease and safety. As a result, you may unconsciously become sensitive to the external world, afraid of making choices, trusting people, or stepping out of your comfort zone. You might feel naive, like Pinocchio, and cautious, yet adventurous like Nemo.
Hi! My name is Sakshi Sharma. I am an aspiring Digital and Content Marketer. Currently, I am a postgraduate student in the Digital and Content Marketing Program at the School of Continuing Studies (SCS) of York University.
Coming to Canada and choosing York University for my further studies was a leap of faith that pushed me to explore the world, meet new people, to seize new opportunities and most importantly to win.
My experience at School of Continuing Studies of York University is a fable of accepting and overcoming new challenges, working on my skills, networking and much more. I hope my experience through this blog serve you as your roadmap to success.
The Enrolment Adventure
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My journey to Canada began in December 2022 when I enrolled in York University’s Postgraduate Program in Digital and Content Marketing for the September 2023 intake. I received my acceptance letter from York within a month.
However, on March 3, 2023, I was diagnosed with Miliary Tuberculosis, a severe and communicable form of tuberculosis. This diagnosis was devastating for me as it meant I could not come to Canada until I completed the mandatory six month treatment and passed all required medical examinations by IRCC. Consequently, I had to defer my enrollment to the January 2024 intake.
Despite the challenges, the enrollment process went smoothly when I informed the admissions team of my medical condition. I received my deferral confirmation and a second acceptance letter from York’s SCS within a week.
Student Support Team and the Registration Team of Continuing Studies were incredibly helpful in mitigating my concerns about losing money and maintaining my enrolment, even while I was in my home country, India.
Red But Fearless Learning at York
Just like in High School Musical's ‘Start of Something New’, my first day at York University was a fresh start, filled with hope and anticipation. I vividly remember the words of Executive Director Michelle Aarons during my program orientation. She encouraged us to affirm, "Today is going to be the first day of the rest of our life." Those words resonated deeply, as that day truly marked the beginning of my journey at York’s School of Continuing Studies, the beginning of a new era in my life.
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The School of Continuing Studies has incredible and dedicated professors whose passion and unwavering support make even the most challenging subjects engaging and manageable. I thoroughly enjoy participating in class activities and connecting with my fellow classmates beyond my usual circle of friends.
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The guest lectures are also enriching, providing opportunities to ask questions and connect with guest speakers on LinkedIn or other social media platforms. This supportive and interactive environment makes York’s academic experience engaging and free from the fear of judgment.
You Can Party Hard at Timbers and Toast with a Glass of Juice Too
Being a York University student often feels like being the main character in a Hollywood movie. Life at the School of Continuing Studies is lively and joyous, though sometimes hectic due to assignments. It’s also about celebrating, partying, and enjoying with a diverse group of strangers who become connections and friends while learning.
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One of my favorite memories at York University is learning from Marketing Fundamentals Professor Heath Applebaum. Heath is adored by many of my friends, and to celebrate the successful completion of our first term, he took all three of our sections to a party. Knowing that I am not a beer person, Heath asked me to order juice for myself. Consequently, I was the only person at the party toasting our success with a glass of juice. I cherish each moment of that evening, as it was the time when we began building connections, and I met some amazing people who are now my friends.
I Have Loved York for Three Seasons, but I Want to Do More
I have loved York for three seasons, but I want to do more. I spent eight months thinking about beginning again. Without any doubt, I am going to choose York University again for my second course because I love the environment York offers. Whether it is the atmosphere of the School of Continuing Studies building or elsewhere on the York campus, it feels like home.
From spending hours at Scott Library to chilling at my secret spot on campus, I am thrilled to get lost in the awe of York this coming winter, refreshing my memories back from January 2024.
Advice for Future Students: The Future is Bright and Dazzling
I know you got that James Dean Daydream look in your eyes. So, it’s okay to be Happy, Free, Confused and Lonely at the same time. If you are committed to yourself and to your goals it is easy to be an archer and balance your studies with work and personal life. Do networking, build healthy relationships with your professors.
Begin your networking adventure by connecting with outstanding instructors from the prestigious SCS Digital and Content Marketing program on LinkedIn.
8 Pro Tips for Future Students -
- Your Network is Your Net Worth: Connect with Your Professors on LinkedIn
- Just be Punctual.
- Finish Your Assignments on Time.
- Cite resources in your assignment.
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- Be Courteous to the Professor and your fellow classmates.
- Participate actively in class activities.
- Always ask your Professor whenever you need any help. They are always ready and happy to help you.
- Last but not least, always proofread, and keep editing your draft until it’s well done.
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Good Luck,Thank You !
