I chose this University specifically because of the co-op program as I have not had any work experience prior to University as well as coming to a new country I felt this would be the best way to step out and make some connections for career-bound growth which definitely was a good initiative. Additionally, the courses offered at the University of Toronto are well rounded and it would only benefit me to study at a prestigious university and learn from the experience of being away from family.
Course Curriculum :
The courses taught here were very different from the way I was taught back in high school but it is a good way to induce critical thinking and independent learning by students. Additionally, my course offers co-op which is work placements as a part of the graduation program which was definitely a boost.
Exams :
I had to submit 2 recommendation letters from my high school for any two subject teachers as well as my grades from class 9 to 12th. I also had to answer a supplementary application form which asked questions regarding my skills and extracurricular activities. I also included a document that listed all my extracurricular and volunteering activities from school and the 4 months after school. In addition to that, I had to answer a lot of questions about my background as well as my family's background and education, and field of study.
Placement :
I think the University has a good name and therefore a lot of fo students get good job placements. additionally, our University holds a lot of alumni events as well as online networking or even in person with employers who come in and hold sessions that help to gather information about the companies you are interested in and therefore can know the next steps
Internship :
Yes, I interned at Tangerine and CGI inc. the process mirrors the real-life after the university process. You have to list down the companies you are interested in and then send in applications based on what they ask. usually required resumes and cover letters. Sometimes, you might skill tests and video interviews too. There is enough and more help on campus from people to help and make it a smooth process and help with interviews through mocks.
Events :
The campus is beautiful set in the middle of a valley. It was a little bit of an adjustment at first to step out into a new country without family or familiar faces however the campus FROSH events as well services such as the International Student Centre and First Year program advisors were able to effectively answer questions and help navigate students like me around campus to feel more comfortable. Several events in the first month of entering university were very engaging and in fact, helped to develop connections that were definitely worth it. There are several opportunities to join a sports team and participate in their tournaments. The gym membership is to Pan Am sports center which is a massive sports complex and helps to keep students engaged in various kinds of physical activities which certainly helps. The library is truly a dedicated space for learning and doing research as well as assignments. It has a lot of books, stationery that you can borrow for use as well as desktops for students to make working easier. Several clubs are open for joining and learning how to work with a team and help plan events for students which are also aligned with your field of study. Also, developments such as the new BRIDGE lab is on campus that helps Finance students get hands-on experience with how stocks work and how to read the stock market as well as pick out important information from the news and present it in a brief and constructive manner.
Fees :
50,000 CAD for tuition fees for a whole academic year of two semesters. it includes additional fees for University mandatory services as well as insurance and gym membership. Boarding on campus is around 8,000 CAD per 2 semesters and an additional 1,500 CAD for the meal plan for tax-free meals on campus and other expenses such as library expenses and so on.
Scholarship :
No
Faculty :
The faculty and staff are very well versed in their subjects as well as adapting to the various ways of teaching and learning be it using the blackboard or interactive sessions in groups and through kinetic learning. It is also an extremely tremendous effort to see how our faculty and staff are now using technology to make online learning effective and they are doing a great job to ensure learning takes place while keeping in mind the home environment and its barriers.
Hostel :
No, I live off-campus for about 20 minutes it is a good decision as to when I travel I can notice more places and names of streets and locations. When I was on campus for 1st year it is definitely recommended as you can make more friends that way and get used to the place but after 1st year I would recommend moving off so that you start to explore more around you.
