Position on O-Team: 

Marketing Lead

Program:

New Media

Year:

4

1. How have you been involved at Ryerson?

Starting in the second semester of my first year, I got a job on campus as a Project Assistant in the Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Community Services. Following that, I became a Junior Rep for the Filipino Canadian Association at Ryerson (FCAR) (No I’m not filipino, my orientation leaders roped me in since they were the Vice Presidents that year!) At the start of my third year, I became the Marketing Director of FCAR. This past year, I also obtained a job at the Continuing Education Students’ Association of Ryerson as a Graphic Designer, and now, here I am as the Marketing Lead of the Ryerson O-Team!

2. Why did you want to join the Orientation Team?

I personally had a GREAT experience in my first year orientation, and have had a blast the past two years volunteering as both a group leader and as a Spirit Squad member. This year, I really want to take part in creating an orientation week that helps the new students feel welcomed into our Ryerson community, so that they can have as great, if not better, of an experience as I did.

I actually didn’t plan on working for the O-Team, but when I heard that they had created a Marketing position that would entail graphic design and social media management, I thought it would be worth a try. I’ve been looking for jobs that are more specific to my passions, and the job description of the Marketing Lead position fit perfectly into what I was hoping for.

3. What were you most nervous about coming into university?

Responsibility and independence. I was told countless times by my high school teachers that I would have seemingly unmanageable workloads, and that I would be on my own – that professors didn’t care about you and would fail you without a second glance. However, when I came to Ryerson, I soon learned that professors are pretty cool in general. Contradictory to what my high school teachers said, they have always been very caring and do sometimes give you a second chance if you slip up. There is so much knowledge they have to share! In terms of the workload, yes, time management is important, and will definitely be stressful at first, but you get the hang of it.

4. What piece of advice would you give a group of incoming first years?

ENJOY THE LITTLE MOMENTS. We’re brought up through elementary school and high school just living day by day in a monotonous routine, and because of that, school becomes an obligation rather than something to be excited about. When you get here, try to shift your perspective on schooling. It’s amazing that we have the opportunity to go to school and learn new things. You have the opportunity to enrol in courses that you can be PASSIONATE about! Don’t get so caught up in marks and obligations; look around you and soak it all in! Enjoy the little moments; how you chose your courses on your own, how you can navigate downtown like a local, how you know where to buy a great lunch for under $5. It’s all about being content with where you are, and getting excited about what’s to come!

5. What are you most excited for this Orientation & why?

I’m super stoked to see the new events we’ve planned set into motion! We’ve got BIG plans, and it’s going to be an awesome time! Don’t worry if you’re shy; you’ll have amazing orientation leaders that you can talk to about most anything, and who really want to create a personal relationship with you! For those who are loud and outgoing, there’s space for you too! We’re so excited to have EVERYONE here, no matter your personality or background.

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