Let’s Ask International Students: Looking to the Future
Fresh out of school with a hard-earned degree in their hands, university graduates have a lot to look forward to in anticipation of their graduation day. Nearing the end of the fall semester of my third year, I can feel the excitement and giddiness of this day even though it is more than a year away! I look forward to all my hard work being rewarded with an exciting celebration of my years at TMU. For many international students, this day holds even more value because our friends and family may travel from home to attend our graduation ceremonies and visit the campus that has become our second home!
From attending career workshops and completing a co-op program to getting involved in one of TMU’s 10 zones and being an experiential learner, students spend their university time figuring out who they are and where their interests lie through creative endeavours and learning opportunities. For many international students, the time we spend at TMU is one of the first times we have experienced independence and adulthood. This time is meaningful and unforgettable, precious years I would be happy to do all over again!
As I approach the winter break with these thoughts, I wonder how other international students prepare for their futures as TMU students. I sat down with students – some graduated, some nearing the end of their university journeys, others just starting out their new lives in TMU– to learn how they feel about the future.
What excites you about life after TMU?
🇵🇰 Fatima A. (Chemical Engineering, Class of 2025)
I am excited to apply the skills I have learned in my courses and Faculty of Engineering & Architectural Science (FEAS) co-op opportunities into the world. I am also looking forward to gaining more industry experience and contributing to meaningful projects that make a difference.
🇵🇪 Micaela P. (International Economics and Finance, Class of 2025)
I’m really excited to take what I’ve learned in class and actually apply it in the real world. Plus, I can’t wait to learn from professionals in the industry and see how everything works outside of school.
🇻🇳 Jennifer N. (Journalism, Class of 2023)
I am excited to work in the media industry in bustling downtown Toronto, where TMU is located. The city is a great place for me to accomplish my goals!
How do you think TMU has prepared you/is preparing you in your chosen career path?
🇲🇽 Rebeka S. (Business Technology Management, Class of 2026)
TRSM has provided me access to co-op, networking events, and real-world experiences, all of which will be incredibly helpful when I start to build my future career. The downtown location close to the financial district and all the available opportunities make TRSM a global hub for business and technology, which aligns perfectly with my field of study in Business Technology Management.
🇵🇪 Micaela P. (International Economics and Finance, Class of 2025)
TMU has really set me up for a career in finance with its coursework. I think the curriculum is key for standing out in the industry. On top of that, the boot camps and conferences I attended were super helpful. I also got to meet alumni who gave me some great advice that’s been super useful for preparing me for my career.
🇻🇳 Jennifer N. (Journalism, Class of 2023)
By giving me a competitive edge! You can count on opportunities for experiential learning built into your four years in every program to put what you learn in the classroom to the test. In my faculty, The Creative School, I signed up for free networking nights and career workshops designed specifically for creative fields from as early as first year.
🇵🇰 Fatima A. (Chemical Engineering, Class of 2025)
Being in a program with a mandatory co-op program has allowed me to obtain experience in both industry and academia which makes me feel equipped to take on the workforce. The engineering society and clubs have organized many events and conferences to help students like me network and consolidate our career paths.
What do you wish you knew as a new student at TMU?
🇵🇪 Micaela P. (International Economics and Finance, Class of 2025)
I wish I had known how friendly everyone is! I came to university worried that everything would be super intense, but people at TMU are kind and willing to help. There’s a great sense of community here, and I feel like teamwork is valued more than competition among students.
🇲🇽 Rebeka S. (Business Technology Management, Class of 2026)
I wish I knew more about ways to stay organized and manage my time effectively. Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities and a social life can be challenging, but with good time management, it’s easier to achieve. I learned this lesson with time!
🇵🇰 Fatima A. (Chemical Engineering, Class of 2025)
I wish I knew about the resources available at TMU sooner. They have helped me in so many ways; from filing my taxes through International Student Support to academic help from Student, Life and Learning Support to making friends at exciting campus events.
🇧🇸 Emily T. (Child & Youth Care, Class of 2024)
Reflecting on my TMU journey as a graduate, I wish I could tell my first year self to take a moment to understand my needs, goals and interests, and align my involvement in events and opportunities accordingly. This way, I could focus on what truly matters. Be bold and seek and accept help when necessary; TMU provides valuable support resources, so make the most of them!
I was inspired by the conversations I got to have with students from all over the world through the “Let’s Ask International Students” series, and am excited to see the exciting places the future takes everyone. In Part 1, I learned about the beginnings of their journey, in Part 2 we chatted about academic challenges and wins and in Part 3, I see the range of possibilities on the horizon for everyone! With different pictures of what the future looks like, international students at TMU are ready for whatever comes next.
