Written By: Suveka Suvi
Congratulations, you got into Ryerson University!
Now, the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘university’ may be studying, studying, studying. But here’s a secret: That's wrong! I mean, you may have late night study sessions. Sure, you may need 3 cups of coffee to prepare for a midterm exam.
But this is your opportunity to learn, grow, and absorb as much as you can. Afterall, there are a ton of possibilities available within the Ted Rogers School of Management (TRSM) waiting just for you!
So here are the top 5 tips to get the absolute best out of your university experience, regardless of if it’s your first year or final year.
Number 1: Join student associations
Chances are you have heard about Ryerson’s infamous hackathons, student-led conferences, or case competitions. But have you ever wondered what went on behind the scenes? Well, here’s your chance!
Joining clubs and activities not only improves your personable and technical skills, but you also get to learn new things outside of your ordinary classroom atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in Accounting, Human Resources, Retail (wink wink), or IT; TRSM introduces you to a world of opportunities with clubs specifically geared towards your favorite industries.By joining student groups, you will learn more from industry experts, alumni, faculty, and students themselves.
The Ted Rogers Student Society (who manage these student organizations) constantly post job opportunities within these clubs on their website . Not only that, but just within 5 minutes and a stable internet connection, you can easily find several clubs and activities through their social media platforms (like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook). There are entry-level positions available, so you won’t need over 5+ years of experience – just be sure to show passion and a willingness to learn!
Want a head start? Check out the Retail Students’ Association (RSA)’s IG!
Number 2: Take advantage of the career services
As we said before, university is your time to learn, grow, and absorb as much as you can, but you don’t have to have everything figured out yet! Maybe you’re unsure about what field to go into. What are the job prospects like? How can I better market myself as an ideal candidate? Well, the Business Career Hub is here to save you! Specialized Career Coordinators are there to provide you support on any co-op or career-related inquiries. Through 30 minutes or 1-hour sessions, you can get one-to-one guidance on building your cover letter, resume, preparing for an interview, and so much more!
Follow this link to start paving your pathway!
Number 3: Participate in bootcamps
Bootcamps are amazing (and free) tools that introduce you to a particular software or topic within 3-hour, lecture-style seminars. With the help of skilled facilitators with loads of experience, you can learn different aspects of digital communication, branding, design thinking, Python, R, Tableau, and more! TRSM’s Business Career Hub constantly updates its calendar to give students chances to learn about skills that are in high demand in today’s workforce.
Available to all years and alumni, these soft or technical skills will help you stand out when applying for different jobs. They provide you with a digital badge attached to your personal LinkedIn page and get you Ted Points (if you’re in your first year). It is important to note that you attend all the bootcamps you have registered for and finish the corresponding work to earn the badge.
Find out more here.
Number 4: Apply for Awards and Scholarships
University is expensive! After doing a quick budget analysis, you may be scared of the expenses racked up. But fear not, Ryerson’s Awardspring is here to save your day! You will get access to over 1000 awards, scholarships, and bursaries by filling out an application. With generous donors, these awards can help you pay for tuition, daily commute expenses, or pay to participate in student-run events. Awardspring gives you a list of awards suited to your qualifications. All you have to do is fill out the form and hit submit! Take advantage of the opportunity and get a better hold of your financial future!
And Number 5: Remember your Accomplishments
This is a monumental time in your life. You are currently studying during a worldwide pandemic with social distancing measures and more virtual than in-person contact.
Remember your story and how you came to be where you are!
You are gaining an education and skill sets during unprecedented times to enhance yourself and build a better career! That fact that you’re even reading this post means that you’re taking steps to become a better YOU and that alone is something to celebrate.
So ultimately, remember university isn’t about studying only! It is your time to learn, grow, and absorb.
Cheers to a more uplifted university career!