The journey continues: graduation advice from TMU’s Class of 2024

Congratulations, Toronto Metropolitan University Class of 2025! 

As you get ready to walk across the stage and step into the exciting next chapter of your journey, know that you’re joining a proud and inspiring community — the TMU alumni family!

Take a moment to hear from those who walked this path not too long ago. Here, members of the Class of 2024 share their heartfelt words of encouragement and wisdom to guide and uplift you as you move forward.

You’ve got this — and we can’t wait to see all that you’ll achieve!

Demetrios Apostolopoulos

Performance - Dance ’24
Dancer/Choreographer

“My piece of advice to all of the 2025 graduates is to approach everything you do with kindness. You will meet many people in your field and it is truly important to stay your genuine self. You have all the tools you need for a successful career; it is up to you how you present yourself to the world. Congratulations, and reach for the stars!”

Elisa Ibarra Juarez

Project Management for Technical Professionals ’24
Case Worker, Toronto Employment and Social Services

“There’s no perfect roadmap and that’s okay. The world might expect you to have a tidy plan, but growth doesn’t follow a straight line. Some of the best things I’ve done came from detours, surprises and saying yes before I felt “ready.” You don’t have to do it all alone. The world changes through collective effort, not individual perfection. Find your people. Be generous with your time and your praise. Celebrate small wins because they matter. You’ve already accomplished something huge. Trust that this version of you — the one who made it here — is already enough.”

Julia Lawrence

Journalism ’24
Reception and Administration Assistant, School of Journalism, TMU

“Continue to grow the relationships you made as a student — the professional ones with faculty/staff and friendships with classmates. They will help you navigate post-grad life and motivate you to keep going.”

Cameron Martin

Child and Youth Care ’24
Administrative Assistant, BrightPath Milton Early Learning and Child Care

“Embrace the moment — this special event is something worth cherishing. On the day of convocation, have the best time!

“After university, be open to opportunities, step out of your comfort zone and stay connected. If you don’t have it all figured out, that’s okay. I’m still trying to figure things out myself, but I’m navigating it as I go.”

Katie Murday

Film Studies ’24
In-House Coordinator, OPC.TV

“One year out, my biggest piece of advice is: be patient with yourself. Life after graduation isn’t a race and it’s completely okay if things don’t fall into place right away. Don’t be afraid to take some time for yourself — to reset, reflect and figure out what you want. Don’t be afraid to pivot or make a complete 180. Say yes to new opportunities, even the ones that might not seem like the “perfect fit” at first. Every experience teaches you something.

“Network as much as you can — relationships often open doors that job boards won’t. One of the most surprising things is how much real learning begins after university. The real world is like a whole new classroom.

“Make a real effort to stay close to your friends. Life gets busy fast, and maintaining a community around you becomes something you have to actively protect. It matters more than you think.”

Kenya Murray

Social Work ’24
Graduate Student (MSSW) ’25, Columbia University

“You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Don’t let imposter syndrome convince you otherwise. That voice in your head questioning if you’re ready or deserving might be loud at times, but it isn’t the truth. You’ve worked hard, you’ve grown and you’ve earned every step that brought you to this moment. Trust your journey, even if the path ahead feels uncertain. The reality is that no one has it all figured out. Showing up, staying curious and leading with heart will take you further than you can imagine. Celebrate how far you’ve come and remember that this is just the beginning.”

Juwairiyah Shaikh 

Nutrition and Food ’24
Nutrition Services, Toronto Rehab, University Health Network

“It’s okay to take breaks and to take your time to figure out your next goals and dreams.”

Vaishnavan Srikumaraguru 

Law ’24
Real Estate Associate, Stikeman Elliott LLP

“Enjoy every part of your lawyering journey, because before you know it, graduation, your call to the bar and articling will be over as fast as they started!”