A day in the life of Image Arts: Photography Media Arts student, Tanvi

Are you interested in learning about what it’s really like to study at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)? If your answer is yes, then you’re in the right place. Throughout the next few weeks, I’ll be chatting with current students to find out what the TMU experience looks like across different faculties, and to help future students navigate the university application process.

This week, I sat down with Tanvi Parikh, a fourth-year Image Arts: Photography Media Arts student, who spoke all about campus life and offered some helpful words of wisdom for future students. Whether you’re interested in the daily routine of a current TMU student or are looking for some application tips, Tanvi is here to help!

Claire: What is your name, your program, your year and a fun fact about yourself?

Tanvi: My name is Tanvi Parikh, and I’m in my fourth and final year of TMU’s Image Arts: Photography Media Arts program at The Creative School. I have two fun facts about myself: I love collecting rocks and minerals, and I met Lily Singh when she was on her book tour for How to Be a Bawse. She’s a YouTuber who I've idolized for a while now. I was able to get a signed copy of her book when I met her, and I treasure it!

C: What does a typical day at TMU look like for you?

T: There isn’t really a “typical” day at TMU for me, so every day is a bit different. In no particular order, my day usually consists of spending some time at my Career Boost job where I work as a Facilities Department Operations Assistant, and attending classes. This semester, I have one class every day so I spend a lot of time on campus. Afterwards, I’ll usually attend office hours or student group meetings before getting some coursework done on campus. Then I head home and do nearly the same thing the next day!

C: What do you like about working at TMU events and why should future students attend?

T: I think TMU events offer great networking opportunities. They also provide you with essential resources, and can give students a chance to take a break from classes and have some fun. I’ve been attending events at TMU for a while now, and I love the hustle that goes into organizing events that bring together the school community and foster a sense of belonging.

It can be really hard for students who come from outside of Toronto or Canada, so on-campus events offer something that feels like home. That’s what’s so great about TMU — there are so many opportunities to learn more about the world around you, and the diversity creates such a vibrant learning environment. When you graduate, you’re not just leaving with new knowledge, but also countless stories, experiences, lifelong connections and a better understanding of yourself.

C: What advice do you have for students preparing to apply to TMU?

T: First, I would say that you should get excited about the journey ahead, including the highs and lows. I also think it’s important to not get too caught up in the end goal. Learning how to adapt to different circumstances is going to help you build grit, which is a must for thriving at TMU. It might seem scary, but it’s important to remember that everything happens for a good reason. That's been my mantra for as long as I can remember.

I would also say that it’s important to research your desired program thoroughly so you can tailor your application to the program’s focus. TMU values students who are passionate and can prove their academic interests, as well as community engagement. When you’re applying, make sure to demonstrate how you contribute to your community, if applicable. 

Lastly, come to campus! The best way to prepare is by getting a feel of what your life will look like when you officially become a student here. By attending on-campus events for future students, you can meet faculty and staff members from your program of interest or participate in a campus tour. In-person research is really useful, so asking questions while you’re here will ensure that you get the answers you need.

C: Why did you choose TMU?

T: One of the main reasons why I chose TMU was because it has one of the best photography programs in Canada. I also love the flexibility that TMU offers with minors. When I was applying, I was interested in completing a minor in Criminology, and TMU was the only university that allowed me to do that. 

I also really love the location. Living in Toronto teaches you so much about the world and yourself, and TMU is such an integral part of the city. After all, how many universities do you know offer classes at a Cineplex cinema? I think all of these qualities really make TMU stand out from other universities.

Thank you to Tanvi for speaking with me! It was so interesting to learn about the experiences of a student in The Creative School. To connect with other students and learn about their experiences, check out the Future Student Events page. There are so many more opportunities for you to get an inside look into TMU’s student life.

I’ll be back on the blog with more helpful advice from current students very soon!

Until next time,

Claire