AfterTMU: Career lessons and advice from TMU graduates

July 04, 2024

In our AfterTMU profile series, alumni take time to share the experiences they’ve obtained since graduating, and offer advice to students and recent graduates with the perspective that only comes from hindsight.

Here are some quick tips for getting ahead and finding success in your own careers.

Luke Galati

Journalism ’17, Documentary Media (MA) ’22
Journalist, Filmmaker and Co-Founder of Skilly

“Learning how to say no to some opportunities can allow for you to be more intentional with what you decide to dedicate your time and energy towards.”

Nikki Jeffrey

Radio and Television Arts ’16
Sports Host and Photographer

“Stay true to who you are and know your stuff. Put your name out there, because you never know what could happen.”

April Kalloo

Radio and Television Arts ’05
Producer, Cityline (former)

“Stay focused and keep going no matter what. You will get a lot of ‘no’s’ — and only a few ‘yeses.’ Take every opportunity and learn everything you can.”

Jocelyne Mendez-Guzman

Biomedical Science (H. BSc) ’21, Mental Health Addictions ’21,
Molecular Science (MSc) (present)
Customer Experience Representative, BioRender

“To thrive in STEM, you need resilience, compassion, a passion for learning, and patience. This field often involves navigating failures and setbacks, so maintaining an open mindset focused on problem-solving and collaboration is crucial.”

Isidora Roskic

Creative Industries ’19
Policy Analyst, Department of National Defence

“Remind yourself that internships, volunteer work and co-ops go towards professional experience. Meaningful work is still meaningful even if it isn’t being paid.”

Dan Shaikh

Business Technology Management ’13
Co-Founder of Speaker Slam^®

“Don’t be afraid to say ‘yes’ to new things, even if they scare you a bit. You never know where these opportunities might lead you. Each one is a chance to learn, grow, and connect.”

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