What I’m looking forward to during my final semester at TMU
Hey, it’s Ido, fourth-year Image Arts: Film student and your student ambassador. As I get ready for my final semester at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), I’ve been reflecting on the many amazing experiences I’ve been so fortunate to have while studying here. I’ve gained experiential learning in the classroom and around the city, taken courses in subjects I initially knew little about and made unforgettable memories with friends I met in class.
The past 3.5 years of university have completely flown by, and the fact that I only have one semester left made me wonder: have I done everything I can to make the most of my time at TMU? Instead of despairing about the immutably fast and fleeting nature of time, I had a good think about the things I was excited about for next semester. Reflecting on these makes me look forward to next semester and helps me feel confident that my 4-year TMU career will be adequately rounded out!
Here’s what I’m looking forward to doing in my last semester as a TMU student.
Completing my capstone project
In my first semester at TMU, we made silent black-and-white films on 16mm celluloid. We’d spend late nights hunched over a Moviscop viewer, splicing shots together in the Image Arts film editing room. The entire project took only a few weeks — from pitching our ideas to screening the final product.
Fourth year is very different. We spend the full academic year working on one project, collaborating with dozens of peers to create a polished short film. After developing our scripts and pitches throughout fall, we’ll start shooting in winter and move through multiple rounds of editing in preparation for class critiques. I’m really looking forward to shooting my project in February and documenting the process to share with you in a future blog!
Toronto Met Film Festival
Speaking of TMU student films: if you’re interested in learning about the film industry, want to support emerging artists or want to see your own work on a big screen, you’ve got to check out the Toronto Met Film Festival (TMFF) (external link) . I’ve gone every year I’ve been at TMU and I’ve always enjoyed it!
TMFF features panels with industry guests, screenings of short films by TMU students across all programs, and 2 evenings dedicated to the capstone projects of the fourth-year Image Arts: Film class — and yes, many of the events are free! I've looked forward to it every year, and I’m especially excited for everything being planned for this year’s edition.
Checking out TMU Bold games
TMU Bold games (external link) are a great way to unwind with friends after a long week of classes and experience school spirit. I’ve always enjoyed watching the annual homecoming hockey games at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC). This winter semester, I’m going to try and catch games from a few different teams and cheer on the Bold.
Attending a TMU lecture, panel or guest speaker event
One of the most meaningful parts of university is being exposed to new ideas and diverse perspectives. Guest lectures and panel discussions are a great way to explore topics you might not encounter in class.
Last year, I attended a Lucy Molnar Wing Lecture featuring acclaimed documentary filmmaker Kirsten Johnson. She spoke about documentary ethics, and it was one of the most engaging talks I’ve ever experienced. This winter, I’m hoping to attend a few more events in subjects I care about (and maybe in areas I know nothing about yet).
Catching a Toronto Met Theatre Company performance
From February 19-21, 2026, the Toronto Met Theatre Company (external link) will be putting on Titanic: The Musical at the Chrysalis. TMU has a talented community of performers, both in the Performance: Acting program and across others. I’m excited to finally attend a production this year!
Getting my resumé graduation-ready
As I prepare for life after TMU, one of my goals is to visit the Career, Co-op & Student Success Centre to refine my resumé. They offer resumé and LinkedIn reviews, interview preparation, career advising and more. I want to make sure my job application materials reflect everything I’ve learned during my 4 years here and that I feel confident entering the job market after graduation.
I’m excited to make time for these items during what will undoubtedly be a hectic semester. It seems strange to say, since there’s always so much more to explore and experience, but I can envision myself at the end of the semester feeling confident that I successfully concluded my time at TMU. In retrospect, the only thing I would’ve changed is pursuing new and exciting opportunities earlier, having aimed to start each semester with a bucket list to make the most of my time at TMU. Luckily, I’ve still got ample time to check off a few more things!
Until next time,
Ido, your student ambassador