After TMU – Chris Hau

Why did you choose to study at Ryerson University?

I had a passion for photography and videography growing up. I would make short films about our family vacations. I was so young that I didn't even know how to spell vacation then! So there are multiple “Hau Family Vactions’. lol

What are some skills you developed through university that are applicable to your career?

When I was at TMU studying Radio and Television Arts, English minor was required to graduate. At the time, I wasn't very fond of those classes, but looking back I am extremely grateful for them. As a full-time Youtuber, I am constantly researching, writing script, and copy for advertisements. So thank you TMU for forcing me to be a better writer. 

How did your experience at TMU help you find your first position?

I started my freelancing business while I was in second year of university. I never had a "first position" but what TMU provided was a network of like-minded individuals with similar goals. My peers helped me find “gigs” and vice versa. The community supported each other in finding jobs in an ever changing landscape. 

What are some attributes or skills required to be successful in your field of work?

First and foremost, you have to be competent in whatever skillset you've focused on. If you're a videographer — you better know how to shoot. If you're an editor — you better understand story and pacing! On top of that, it's important that you show up on time (which is 15 minutes early) and be a fun person to work with! When it comes to YouTube — being able to write captivating titles and create clickable thumbnails might be one of the most important skill sets to be successful. 

What are the biggest challenges you've faced in your career? How did you overcome them?

As a Youtuber — the constant pressure to be creative every week can definitely take a toll. On top of that — no one prepares you for the constant bombardment of opinions from strangers on the internet. This career has helped me develop a thick skin. 

What has been your favourite career achievement?

Being able to run a YouTube Channel to a point where I could hire a full-time employee. Being able to provide a living for another TMU graduate is one of my proudest accomplishments. 

If you could start all over again, would you change your career path in any way? Why?

To be honest — I wish I didn't work as hard. I feel like I lost out on a lot of great years in my 20's because I was always “working”. I am very grateful for the hard work “Past Chris Hau” put in to get to this point, but I wish I took more time to have fun!

What is a typical “Day in Your Work Life” like?

Haha — it's always so different. Right now, because of Covid — we're shooting a lot of videos at home and building out my website "TheChrisHau.com." But, when the world is more active, we could be on a plane to Europe one week and driving a Mercedes Benz on a frozen lake the next. This career is a lot of work, even though it looks like a lot of fun on the outside. I always say the peaks are amazing and the valleys are really difficult. 

What are the best parts of your work; what are the necessary evils?

The best parts of my job include travelling with tourism boards around the world, but there is always a dark side. That usually includes working on weekends, lack of sleep to hit deadlines, dealing with ever changing algorithms, and the day-to-day of running a business. 

What do you wish you could tell your university self?

Chill out man... it's all going to happen. It just takes time. Also, get your ego in check. You're not as good as you think you are! haha.