Choosing a program: Advice from the TMU community
Hi there, I'm Jasmine, your student ambassador and a fourth-year Journalism student at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). Looking at programs here at TMU and at other universities can feel overwhelming due to the sheer amount of options and career paths. I remember being in the same boat, frantically making pros and cons lists to try to make the right choice for me.
The main thing that swayed my decision toward the Journalism program was visiting TMU during the fall Open House. Not only did I discover the amazing facilities in The Creative School, but I also got to talk to current students and faculty before I even accepted my offer. Chatting with people who could give me advice guided me while I was trying to make a decision.
To help you feel less overwhelmed, I recently took the time to talk to a few community members from across the university, including students and staff, asking them for their tips on how to pick a program. Here’s their advice for you!
Start your research online and consider your interests
Researching different programs can be hard to navigate, but I recommend taking a look at program and faculty webpages directly to help you get a sense of what the program can offer and the associated requirements.
“Definitely do your research, and know what you’re getting yourself into. Look at your interests, and consider what you loved in high school. I took a route where I just wanted to do something I loved. I figured out what I liked and what I wanted to do, and I went from there.”
- Katya Thornton, Image Arts: Film, Student
Think about your desired career outcomes
Finding a program that's right for you goes beyond reviewing course topics and requirements. Consider your career goals and explore the different experiential learning opportunities a program offers to help you make a decision.
“Choose something you love, but stay open to where it can take you. Look for a program that aligns with your interests, but also consider the skills and experience you’ll gain through co-op, internships and experiential learning. Having the chance to explore different career paths while you study also helps you build valuable industry connections. Sometimes the career you end up loving is one you didn’t even know existed when you first started university.“
- Silvia Silva, Career, Co-op and Student Success, Staff
Visit campus and connect with staff
With the TMU Open House coming up in just a few weeks on November 7, 2026, this can be a great opportunity for you to explore the programs and facilities, including workspaces, equipment and more. I also encourage you to visit TMU’s campus or to check out TMU’s virtual tour.
“Come to one of our open houses, chat with folks and ask key questions about what [specific] programs offer and co-op options, which we have plenty of. Think about what excites you!”
- Heather Palmer, Undergraduate Admissions, Staff
At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to choose a program. Whether you’ve started thinking about university, started looking at programs or already applied and are waiting to hear back, what matters most is that the program you pick feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions while you search!
Visiting TMU’s campus and connecting directly with people in the Journalism program helped me make my decision, and hopefully these tips make picking a program feel less overwhelming and daunting.
Back in a bit,
Jasmine, your student ambassador