I chose TMU's master of journalism program because it’s a hands-on program, which is rare for graduate studies. At the time I applied, pre-COVID, I was most excited about using the on-campus facilities like the broadcasting and recording studios. The courses looked fun and collaborative. I figured there was no better place to study journalism than in the heart of Toronto with loads of young, talented journalists.

My favourite experience was working in the On the Record newsroom as part of the podcast team. We’d have to stay up late writing scripts and cutting audio, but we were in good company and made episodes we could be proud of. I also enjoyed my internship. It was a welcome change of pace from schoolwork, and I learned a lot.

I’m not in any extracurriculars at TMU. Joining virtually just didn’t cross my mind. With most clubs operating online, you have to research which club you’re interested in, check if they’re still active and then go to their Zoom events after likely spending all day on Zoom. It just made more sense to get involved locally than to pursue more virtual activities.

My experience with my professors has been great for the most part. One thing that’s true of all of them is that they want to see you grow and perform well. The pandemic has been hard on everybody, and the professors have been flexible and willing to make compromises that work for everyone. They are supportive, fun and, of course, very talented people.

Enrolling in courses may take some getting used to, which is true of all university portals, but follow the instructions on RAMSS Support and you’ll be just fine. If not, someone will help you. The administrative team was always polite and warm when I needed help. The team is small, so you recognize their names and their faces. Even when everything was online only, they felt personable and within reach. They also made sure students knew about all the great opportunities available. They pass along relevant paid and volunteer roles, which is a huge help, especially for people in creative fields.

On campus, you’re right by the Cineplex in Yonge-Dundas Square. You can hit up a board game café. You can go thrifting in Kensington. There are tons of places to go out for drinks, and there are events going on all the time—sports games, concerts, comedy shows. Anything you could think of doing, it’s there.

Best place to live: In the Church-Wellesley Village

Best place to study: At home

Best campus events: Frosh week (for undergrads)

Weirdest tradition: Saying Gould Street smells like churros, even when it doesn’t

Best campus food: Food trucks

Best cheap lunch: Street hot dogs

Best pizza: Maker Pizza

Best place for a fancy dinner: One of the Joey restaurants

Best giveaway: Yeti microphone

Best bar for hanging out: The Warehouse

Best live music venue: The Phoenix Concert Theatre

Best hangover breakfast: McDonald’s

Best place for a nap: There’s no place like home

Best weekend activity: Coffee and Allan Gardens

The thing that surprised me most about the school: How they’ve handled COVID

If I could change one thing about the school: The name

Editor's note: This interview has been updated to reflect the university's name change to Toronto Metropolitan University in 2022.