What did you study at Ryerson and what year did you graduate?
I studied Radio & Television and graduated in June 2013.
What made you choose that program? Was it related to the career you envisioned?
I chose RTA because I loved being creative and thought working within media/broadcast and communications would suit me. I came into the program hoping to start my own production company when I graduated, but that idea evolved as I went through my four years.
Were you involved in any clubs or societies as a student? What did you enjoy most about them? Do you think they provide benefits for students?
I was part of the Ryerson Women’s Volleyball Team for four years, a member of the Tri-Mentoring Program and was part of Ryerson Urban Hip-Hop Union (UHHU). I loved being part of them because they really enriched my Ryerson experience. I met amazing people and my involvement really helped in generating a network at Ryerson that has led to many learning and work opportunities.
 What did you do immediately after graduation?
Right after I graduated I started a summer contract with Sport4Ontario. I wanted to work and make sure to continue expanding my experience and my network.
What is your job title?
Bell Graduate and Leadership Development Program – Project Specialist
 Highlight some of your past work experience
Throughout university I held many internships and jobs to make sure I was always challenging myself. Below is a list of some of my work experience while I was in school:
- Positive Living Productions – Research and Development Intern
- Sony Music Canada – National Promotions Intern
- Canadian Chinese Youth Athletic Association – Events Coordinator, Marketing Coordinator
- TVO Kids – User Generated Content Clerk
- Ryerson Tri-Mentoring Program – Social Media Marketing Assistant
- Universal Music Canada – Special Markets Intern
- Event emcee for many different organizations
 What personal qualities or abilities are important to being successful in your current job?
You need to be able to work within a team. Communication is key. Anyone can learn a skill, but it’s the soft skills that you learn through interaction with other people that is of true value. Being able to pay close attention to detail and effectively analyze data is necessary to be successful in my current role.
How do you see jobs in your field changing in the future?
I think there will continue to be a rise in start-ups and small production companies. Now is such a good time to “hire yourself,” because there are many platforms for people to share their works. It’ll continue to be tough and those who work hard and show determination are going to be the ones that ultimately succeed.
What special advice would you give a student entering this field?
Everyone needs to be able to market himself or herself, don’t for a second think that nobody is watching or that any minute you won’t meet someone who can lead to an opportunity. Anything can happen at anytime.
What is the most important thing you took away from your experience at Ryerson?
The most important thing I took away was that Ryerson is that it’s such a unique community. It has a culture like no other. We compare ourselves to other schools, but ultimately we are different, in a good way. Since we’re in the heart of downtown Toronto with majority commuting students, many forget to indulge in what the university has to offer. You make your own experience and can create its value to your life, but YOU have to do it. Take advantage of every minute you have to learn, create, help, empower and ultimately live.
Is there anything you wish they’d taught you at Ryerson?
I wish there was more of a business aspect to my program.
How do you stay motivated?
I try to keep myself busy and remind myself that when I think I’m working hard, there’s at least one other person out there working harder.
What, in your opinion, are the keys to success?
Good posture and a smile are the keys to success because if you look approachable and friendly, that opens doors. What happens once those doors are open is a different story.
Do you have any final advice for students?
Every day you spend not learning something is a day that someone else is.
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