Post-Secondary Planning
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Mediaplanet sat down with Noam Raiter on how she found a worklife balance between being a resident doctor and influencer.
What are your career goals and how did you decide what you wanted to study?
My aspiration to become a physician started when I was five years old based on interactions with the medical system. I am fortunate to lead a normal and healthy life today but these early life experiences played a large role in sparking my interest in this career. These aspirations were validated when I was in high school and fell in love with the sciences and found my passion for leadership. I completed my undergraduate degree in neuroscience and found my interest in mental health. When I entered medical school, I was pretty convinced I would end up in Psychiatry but I quickly found a greater passion for preventive care and a holistic full-body approach to both mental and physical health. With that, I decided to complete my residency in Family Medicine which would allow me to practice medicine with these passions at the forefront.
Aside from my job as a physician, I also am a content creator on social media. My content focuses on the importance of wellness, work-life balance, and humanizing the experience of medical training. Creating a platform online has allowed me to connect with so many fellow students, physicians, and other young professionals and I have found so much joy in sharing my journey and hopefully inspiring others along the way. I am currently in my final year of residency and although I don’t know exactly what my plans are for medical practice post-grad, I hope to find a way to fuse all my passions and interests in a way
that benefits not only my immediate patients but also the greater community.
How do you balance your work as a resident doctor with your career in social media?
There are a few key reminders that have helped me find balance throughout my two careers in medicine and on social media. Number one, balance is not always “50/50”. There are some weeks where I am working 80 hours a week at the hospital and I barely post a story on Instagram. There are others where I have more free time and can post more and batch-create content to post at a later date. Don’t beat yourself up if you aren't doing everything “perfectly” all of the time. That brings me to number two, organization is key! Find whatever methods work for you but I love creating to-do lists and having a color-coded calendar synced across all my devices. Number three, make sure to still prioritize your well-being despite how busy you may be. For me, this looks like going to a workout class a few times a week, eating foods that keep me energized, and finding time for my hobbies like baking and pottery. I can’t expect to be my best self either at work as a doctor or online as a creator if I don't take the time to fill up my own cup first.
Do you have any advice for students deciding on a career path?
Don’t try to squeeze yourself into boxes that other people have designed. As we get into higher education, people may often tell us to “focus” and “minimize distractions outside of school”. Of course, these things are important but at the same time, there is so much value in being multi-passionate. Find ways to fuse your passions and let them support
Q&A WITH Icess
Mediaplanet spoke with influencer, and recent graduate, Icess to get her insight on juggling post-secondary life.
How did you decide what you wanted to study in university?
When I was in high school, choosing a university program felt like one of the biggest life decisions I had to make thus far. It is also one of those things that feel like there is only one right answer. But what is the right answer?
My whole life I wanted to head into either the field of health or pursue a career in entertainment (i.e. music, acting, modeling, content creating, etc.). But both those fields were so drastically different, I had no clue which one I should prioritize in university. At the time, I thought the smart decision would be to pursue health and continue my love of all things entertainment as a hobby. And maybe one day my dreams of pursuing entertainment would be a reality somewhere in the future. And that it did! I am a firm believer in achieving your dreams while also being in school. Now that I am older, I’ve realized that it never has to be one dream or the other. I finished school and have a job in content creating and I encourage others to chase their dreams while receiving an education as well.
I would like to mention that I did not choose my university program alone. Feeling stuck about your future is a common feeling and one of the best ways to overcome this is through a strong support system. My mom has always been the biggest piece to my support system and with her help, she made my high school to university transition so smooth.
Sarah Ferreira
Layal El Masri Business
Not only did she help me in choosing my program, she helped me understand how and why it was a good program for me. Sometimes moms do know best!
Do you have any advice for incoming students?
My biggest word of advice to any incoming students would be to follow their instincts and chase their dreams without thinking about anyone else’s expectations. Going off to university is an exciting and new experience, but do it for yourself and not for the approval of others. If you have a dream or a goal that you want to achieve in University then do it without hesitation. There is no dream that is too big and there is certainly no dream that cannot be done simply because you are in school. I totally understand that school is time consuming and demanding, but don’t ever let this deter you from achieving what you desire. Write down your goals, organize your schedule in a way that prioritizes these goals, and keep going. If you ever find yourself struggling, don't be afraid to reach out for help. Don’t ever let anyone belittle your dreams and always strive to be the best version of yourself.
York’s Faculty of EUC cultivates leaders in sustainability, bridges theory and practice, and prepares graduates to address urgent global challenges.
Veronica Stephenson
York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC) isn’t just an academic program — it’s a call to action for future changemakers poised to take on some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity today. On the road to a more just and sustainable future, the world needs thinkers who embody a collective commitment to addressing the urgent issues that threaten the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants.
In an era marked by rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and dwindling natural resources, the need for transformative action has never been more evident. The consequences of environmental degradation and social inequities manifest in various forms — from air pollution to habitat depletion, and from poverty to gender-based violence. York University’s Faculty of EUC recognizes these
connected challenges and is mobilizing its community of researchers, faculty, students, alumni, and collaborators to effect positive change.
Career-ready graduates with realworld experience
Professors and researchers at EUC renowned for their world-class expertise, engage in cutting-edge projects cross diverse fields like earth surface science, climatology, and ecological economics. Meanwhile, practical learning opportunities afford students a chance to practise their skills in the real world
“The incorporation of real-world projects, case studies, and hands-on experiences has allowed me to directly apply theoretical knowledge to tangible situations,” says Aanandita Arora, 4th year student and Dean's Changemaker with the Waste Wiki. “This practical aspect not only enhanced my problem-solving skills but reinforced my belief in the transformative power of sustainable practices.”
Mediaplanet sat down with a few students attending York’s EUC faculty to learn more about their experience in the program.
How did you first become interested in sustainable environmental management (SEM), and why did you choose York’s Faculty of EUC?
I became interested in (Sustainable Environmental Management (SEM) because of my reservations about how our economy operates in a fast-paced, growth-centric way with little regard for social and environmental externalities. When I learned about SEM and its focus on the management of natural resources from a scientific, political, economic, and technological perspective, I became interested in how to build solutions for a sustainable future. I chose York’s program because of its focus on experiential education, community engagement, and diverse professional development opportunities. Given the array of placements, workshops, work-study opportunities, and hands-on experiences, I knew York University’s SEM program would be a no-regret choice.
— Tomisona Oludairo, 4th year student and Research Assistant with the Infrastructure Beyond Extractivism project.
Launching in Fall 2024, EUC will offer a co-op experience in all programs!
How has the program affected your drive to pursue a career in the field?
The way the EUC programs is structured helped me find my passion and choose my future career path. After being equipped with basic knowledge about the field in the first year, we were introduced to different aspects of environmental management in the second year. Once we had a full picture of environmental management, we were able to choose to pursue our own research interest in the final year. That’s how I honed in on my interest in developing and supporting sustainable social movement projects.
— Tia Nguyen, 4th year student and Dean's Changemaker in EcoArts.
How has the program allowed you to pursue career development?
I've had the privilege of actively engaging with initiatives that transcend traditional academic boundaries. Initially, my internship with the Furniture Bank provided practical insights into sustainable furniture and resource management. Subsequent involvement with the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership enhanced my project management and sustainability implementation skills. A standout experience was a two-week
A wealth of opportunities
Embarking on a journey with York University’s Faculty of EUC opens the door to diverse and impactful career paths. Undergraduate students can choose to major in Cities, Regions, Planning (BES), Environmental Arts and Justice (BES), Environmental Science (BSc), Global Geography (BA), and Sustainable Environmental Management (BES), or to mix and match courses from these areas through minors or certificates to personalize their educational journey. And, students in each major will be able to enhance their career development with EUC’s new Co-op program launching Fall 2024. Graduates are career-ready for roles as problem-solvers, policymakers, planners, and leaders. Whether shaping sustainable policies, engaging in ecological conservation, or contributing to critical urban studies, students emerge ready to actively contribute to building a more sustainable and just future.
course transcending classroom walls, taking us to diverse locations like Oil City, Sarnia, a women's refugee centre, and Black Creek Community Farm. This immersive journey offered firsthand insights into challenges and opportunities across sectors, bridging theoretical concepts with real-world applications.
— Aanandita Arora, 4th year BES student, Dean’s Changemaker with the Waste Wiki
What are the most important lessons and skills you’ll take from your time at York?
Sometimes, after long days of hard work, I’d get discouraged and wonder if all my efforts were worth it. The answer would come soon after my first year came to a close, when I was hired at the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. In the interview process, I was able to draw on my knowledge from my courses and my experiences in clubs. All my hard work resulted in a four-month position at the largest conservation authority in Ontario. Ultimately, what I learned is to never stop working hard. Fantastic results are always waiting on the other side.
— Anthony Loschiavo, 2nd year student and Summer 2023 Intern with TRCA.
Graduating with experience and career knowledge gives new graduates a critical advantage.
Brock University's Goodman School of Business recognizes this and all three of their undergraduate programs — Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Accounting, and Bachelor of Business Administration International Dual/ Double Degree — offer the opportunity for co-op, so students can apply their classroom knowledge while gaining valuable work experience. With a co-op employment rate of 96 per cent, your future career starts at Goodman.
Mediaplanet chatted with Goodman students Prabnik Sidhu and Noah Van Belle to hear firsthand about the co-op advantage.
Prabnik Sidhu
Hometown: Brampton, Ont.
Fourth-year honours Bachelor of Accounting Co-op Student
Tell us about your co-op experience.
Through co-op, I worked for 12 months with Deloitte as a tax analyst on the Business Tax team. My job entailed working on tax compliance, where I assisted in the preparation and review of income tax returns for individuals, corporations, and partnerships. Through my work, I ensured there was compliance with any relevant tax laws and regulations. I was often asked to analyze financial data and workpapers to support accurate and timely tax filings as well as to interact with clients to gather information, address inquiries, and provide tax-related advice. There were many opportunities to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including audit and advisory, to provide comprehensive client services.
How has co-op helped to clarify your career direction?
My work term played a vital role in shaping what my career direction looks like. It felt incredibly rewarding and fulfilling to have a work experience that aligned with my interests. I truly felt challenged in the workplace while being supported from both the co-op office and the Business Tax team at Deloitte. I felt a sense of gratification when realizing this industry is something I could see myself doing long-term.
Noah Van Belle
Hometown: Oakville, Ont.
Fourth-year honours Bachelor of Business Administration Co-op Student
Tell us about your co-op experience.
During two of my co-op placements, I worked closely with the Intelligent Automation team at Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Ltd. (Coke Canada) in the IT division. My team focused on utilizing emerging digital technologies within the company. My primary responsibilities were to develop applications using Microsoft Power Apps and to create automation solutions using Power Automate Desktop to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
How has co-op helped to clarify your career direction?
My co-op experience exposed me to a wider range of career options. I’ve always been interested in operational management roles, particularly those in supply chain management. The technicalities involved in creating and distributing products to customers fascinate me, especially in the case of consumer packaged goods companies. I’m passionate about driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement because of their problem-solving nature. For instance, my job at Coke Canada introduced me to innovative positions in IT. This experience sparked my interest in automation work, which complements my passion for continuous improvement and increased operational efficiency.
The new University of Toronto Scarborough health sciences stream program, now taking applications, is specialized to set students up for prosperous careers.
Katherine Cappellacci
Canada’s urgent need for more health care professionals has led the country’s top university, the University of Toronto, to develop over 50 innovative undergraduate programs available at its Scarborough campus. They aim to prepare students with the necessary expertise and practical knowledge to enter the health care sector directly and contribute significantly.
Offering numerous programs of study, the new health sciences stream provides distinct advantages like integrated paid co-op programs and an experiential, well-rounded educational approach. Plus, along with degrees in life sciences, physical and environmental sciences, and psychology and health studies, students gain a competitive edge in the job market by earning the new certificate in pathways to health professions.
Through conversations with government officials and industry associations, the University of Toronto Scarborough was inspired to build this program to specifically address local and provincial health care demand.
Building a comprehensive skill set
“There’s a great need for health workers in Ontario, particularly in the eastern GTA,” says Shelby Verboven, registrar and assistant dean of strategic enrolment management at U of T Scarborough “We’re always speaking to professional colleges and health related programs to ensure our students learn core competencies and meet industry standards.”
Students also choose courses to
augment their training in areas that interest them like critical and creative thinking, communication and leadership. “The pathways to health professions certificate was created when we realized we needed doctors, nurses, and all health care workers to have a broader understanding of the health care system needs,” explains David Zweig, professor and vice-dean of recruitment, enrolment and student success. “Along with gaining necessary knowledge and skills, we’re giving them the advantage to enter the field with a deeper, well-rounded foundation.”
With small class sizes and access to global health leaders, U of T Scarborough students get top-of-the-line academic advantages. They’ll also gain real-world experience through leading paid co-op work terms with some of Canada’s best organizations.
A career entry point
The co-op work terms are intentionally interspersed in the academic year so students combine in-class skill development with hands-on experiential learning. Students graduate with job connections, above-average professional practice, and a better understanding of the career options they love most.
Additionally, opening at U of T Scarborough in 2026, the Scarborough Academy of Medicine and Integrated Health will provide an inclusive hub for health care education and extend the impact of U of T’s health education programs. The academy will streamline students into Scarbor -
ough’s health network while also strengthening connections between health care workers and the diverse communities they serve.
“Access is top priority for us,” says Verboven. “Underrepresentation is an issue in health care and we’re working to change that by creating opportunities that bolster our surrounding neighbourhoods.” Areas of study include medicine, nursing, pharmacy, rehab and therapy, mental health and counselling and health support.
Apply today
Through its innovative curriculum and community connections, U of T Scarborough is addressing urgent health-care needs in the eastern GTA. A bachelor of science degree plus a certificate in pathways to health professions and co-op experience makes them excellent candidates for graduate health care schools. “We want students to start their career with us,” says Zweig. “They’ll get amazing opportunities that will translate into future professional success.”
Post-secondary education offers more than opportunities — it also transforms lives and communities.
The CST Foundation provides access to education for all Canadians, regardless of their background.
Janice Tober
While higher education is shown to offer more career opportunities and greater earnings potential, studies also show that post-secondary education can transform not only lives, but communities.
With rising inflation and increasing tuition fees, coupled with growing inequality and stagnant wages, fewer Canadians have access to education and training, and one out of every two students graduate with an average debt of $28,000, according to the Canadian Association of University Teachers.
The CST Foundation is at the forefront of supporting and enabling access to higher education for all Canadians, regardless of their background.
Through financial assistance, the company has helped over 600,000 families access post-secondary education and awarded over $2 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 200 Canadian post-secondary students. Every student should have access to post-secondary education Affordability is a significant factor for students and their families in making the decision to pursue post-secondary education. While two-thirds of Canadian youth have some funds put aside for higher learning, according to Statistics Canada, many students still can’t afford to earn a degree or diploma.
The CST Foundation began in 1960 and provides a path that enables every student to pursue their dream career.
Tasha Kara is one such student who received a Founders’ Award in 2021. Mediaplanet sat down with her to learn more about her post-secondary experience.
How has your journey with postsecondary education been?
When I was two years old, my grandmother and my mom made the decision to start an RESP with CST for me. Together, their contributions helped me to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University in 2017, where I double majored in International Development and Gender and Sexuality Studies.
Fast forward to 2021, and I was humbled to receive the CST Founders’ Award. In 2023, I gained my Master of Public Health degree from the University of Toronto, with a focus on social, behavioural, and global health. During this time, I was fortunate to undertake two practicums. The first was with a Uganda based non-profit organization, Afya na Haki (Ahaki) which explored equitable access to vaccines, and the second was with a consulting firm, SHIFT Collaborative, which focused on researching the population health impacts of climate change and health system adaptation strategies in B.C. Today, I’m back with the Provincial Health Services Authority in B.C., promoted into a strategic role that specializes in mitigating health emergencies and preparing for climate change impacts on B.C.’s health system.
What or who inspired you to pursue post-secondary education?
The driving force behind my pursuit
of my master’s degree in public health was a sense of frustration and curiosity. Attending undergraduate classes heightened my awareness of the systemic challenges inherent in women’s health and the realization that access to a healthy life was inequitable.
My pursuit of post-secondary education was also inspired by my grandmother, a resilient woman who, despite not having the opportunity to pursue formal education herself, instilled in me the importance of always learning.
How has the CST Foundation helped you along your postsecondary education journey?
Though I was delighted to have been accepted to the program at the University of Toronto, there were significant financial realities to consider, such as increased living costs. While I worked part-time to pay for my studies, it wasn’t enough.
While the CST award assisted with tuition and living expenses, it also meant more than financial freedom. It gave me the opportunity to focus on my studies.
What advice would you give to other students considering attending post-secondary school for the first time?
Your time in post-secondary education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about cultivating a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability,
Through its awards and bursaries program young Canadians can reach their full potential through post-secondary education.
The Founders’ Awards are offered to students who have benefited from a CST Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and are starting postsecondary studies. In 2023, the organization awarded 14 Founders’ Awards at $7,000 each.
The Bursary Awards are awarded to students starting post-secondary education and need financial assistance to do so. The Bursary Awards aren’t limited to university degrees but encompass diplomas and apprenticeships as well. In 2023, the organization awarded 25 Bursary Awards at $6,000 each.
and building a network that will serve you well beyond the classroom. The critical thinking skills you learn will help you make informed decisions and approach life differently. The intellectual freedom gained through education expands your mind and gives you the tools to navigate the complexities of the world with greater autonomy and understanding.
Embrace curiosity, approach your educational journey with an open mind, build relationships, and engage with your community, peers, professionals, and staff. These connections can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and a broader understanding of your field.
And if you ever find yourself in a position of power or in a spot where you can help someone else, don't hesitate. So many people supported me along the way, and my plan is to keep that chain going by supporting others. It's not just about me — it's about recognizing the strength of community and making sure that support and opportunities are shared.
George Brown College degree programs offer the right blend of theoretical learning and real-world experience to help you succeed after graduation. Our programs are highly responsive to industry needs and are developed in close consultation with our many partners across Toronto, Canada and the globe. Each year we update our programs to reflect emerging labour market needs and techological change.
Students start building their networks right away, including in class with faculty — many are dual professionals who teach and work in their industry. Thanks to our downtown Toronto location and strong connections to employers, we offer an exciting range of experiential learning opportunities so you can learn by doing in the heart of Canada’s largest city.
George Brown College offers 16 honours bachelor degrees and has other degree programs in development. Our programs cater to a wide range of students with many pathway opportunities available to recognize previous post-secondary education or work experience.
Entrance scholarships
The college offers Degree Entrance Scholarships for eligible students in their first semester. Entrance scholarships are renewable based on maintaining a grade point average of 3.7 (80 per cent). Learn more at georgebrown.ca/entrance.
Business
• B302 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services): Co-designed with employers, this business degree prepares you to succeed in today’s financial services industry. After completion of the first year, students can choose to specialize in either accounting or financial planning.
• B303 Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Business Analytics): Learn how to turn complex data into actionable insights through this four-year degree program.
• B304 Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Trades Management): This program is offered in partnership with Algonquin College and Mohawk College to support skilled tradespeople in gaining the business skills to transition to management or run their own company.
• B310 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Supply Chain Management): Learn how to analyze data,
optimize operations and manage supply chain logistics.
• B312 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Digital Marketing): Learn how to plan and implement engaging and personalized digital experiences for owned or social media.
Construction Management
• T312 Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management): Ontario’s first internationally accredited four-year degree specializing in construction management, this program combines theory, applied research, field study, and practical training in business methods.
Design
• G301 Honours Bachelor of Digital Experience: Research, create and test effective, human-centered designs for a range of digital applications.
• G304 Honours Bachelor of Brand Design: Gain crucial skills in collaboration, research, strategic thinking, technical design execution, and brand storytelling to succeed as a brand designer through this four-year program.
Early Childhood
• C118 Early Childhood Education (Consecutive Diploma/Toronto Metropolitan University Bachelor’s Degree): This four-year program leads to both an Early Childhood Education (ECE) diploma from George Brown and a Bachelor of Arts Early Childhood Studies degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.
• C148 Early Childhood Education (Consecutive Diploma/ George Brown College Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership Degree): This program offers many distinct advantages, including the ability to graduate with both an Early Childhood Education diploma and an Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership degree from George Brown.
• C305 Early Childhood Education
– Honours (Degree Completion): Students with a previous twoyear Early Childhood Education diploma can pursue an Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from George Brown College through this program. A part-time study option is also available.
Health Sciences
• S118 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N): This collaborative degree program has students complete their first two years at GBC and
the final two years at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). Graduates earn a TMU bachelor’s degree.
• S302 Honours Bachelor of Behaviour Analysis: This fouryear degree program creates a comprehensive understanding of behavioural psychology and applied behaviour analysis (ABA).
• S305 Honours Bachelor of Science (Dental Hygiene): Ontario’s first degree-completion program for graduates of diploma and advanced diploma dental hygiene programs, this online program prepares students for oral public health care and advocacy, policy development, education and sales careers.
• H311 Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (Hospitality): Prepare for managerial and supervisory roles within the exciting hospitality sector.
• H315 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Culinary Management): Learn kitchen skills and business acumen to thrive in the everchanging food and beverage industry. The only four-year degree of its kind in Canada.
• H318 Honours Bachelor of Food Studies: Combine culinary arts with a comprehensive food studies curriculum.
• C302 Honours Bachelor of Interpretation (American Sign Language - English): This first-of-its-kindin-Canada program cultivates learners to become interpreters who are critical thinkers with unbiased communicative language and interpreting practices.
Get help planning for your future
Deciding where to pursue your post-secondary education is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. We can help! Visit us on campus to see our facilities and have your general questions answered, or connect with our Entry Advising service at georgebrown. ca/entry for more personalized advice. If you would like to pursue a degree but don’t meet the admission requirements, we offer academic upgrading and pre-program options to help you reach your goals.
Greg Benchwick, Communications Manager, Education Cannot Wait
Worldwide, 224 million children are having their futures and their educations ripped from their hands by the converging challenges of conflict, climate change and other protracted crises. Education Cannot Wait’s Postcards From The Edge highlights the real stories of hope and redemption on the frontlines of the world’s forgotten crises in places like Bangladesh, Burkina Faso and beyond.
Hope for the Rohingya Fleeing from persecution and violence in their homeland of Myanmar, close to 1 million Rohingya refugees now live in refugee camps
in Bangladesh. Global efforts are underway to provide the girls and boys living here with safe learning environments. The global fund for education in emergencies, Education Cannot Wait, has already reached over 300,000 children by building schools, providing access to learning materials, training teachers, and creating climate-resilient pathways toward sustainable development. Zawad, 11, lives with his four sisters and two brothers in the camp. Now Zawad is back in school and dreams one day to become a teacher, because, “Educated people have the knowledge to define right and wrong, which will help them lead a better life.”
Burkina Faso In the middle of Africa, Burkina Faso experiences high levels of violence, insecurity, displacement, poverty and hunger. At the heart of this forgotten crisis are the 1 million children that are out of school. Without safe learning opportunities, they are exposed to threats of childhood marriage, recruitment into armed groups, and other grave violations against their humanity. The children of Burkina are sharing shocking stories of losing their homes only to regain hope in a series of postcards from brave and resilient children like Mariam, Darifa and Issa.