Student Spotlight
Creative Industries alumna, Sarah Elaine McLay, is creating sustainable careers in the arts and promoting Indigenous culture in her new role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the full-service, award-winning Canadian record label, Hitmakerz (external link) . You can read more about her success in our recent news article. (opens in new window)
Congratulations to Creative Industries alumni whose start-up was acquired by Quill Inc.! During their undergrad at Toronto Metropolitan University, Stephanie Andrews (CI Alumnus, 2018), Alison Osborne (CI Alumnus, 2019), and Brittany Nguyen (RTA Alumnus, 2018) co-founded Origins Media Haus. In September, 2020 the business was acquired by Quill Inc. You can read more about the acquisition in our official press release official press release (external link) , or check out betakit (external link) and the message (external link) .
What about this program is most interesting to you? What are the most valuable new skills you've developed, so far?
Actually, it’s not so much the program as it is the people this program attracts. Even though we’re all in the same program, each student’s interests and career goals are so unique. I’ve been able to learn from my peers and professors with different competences, and that is something I really value. Every single class has included group work, so I’ve developed both my teamwork and leadership skills. Business is a core aspect of the program, so I’ve also been able to learn crucial lessons in fields like accounting, marketing, management and entrepreneurship. I’ve been able to take courses in public speaking, participatory media, video and image editing, and much more. Even if I can’t name every single skill I’ve acquired and developed, I know I have and will apply them subconsciously in the future.
What was your experience like working with Mass Exodus, Toronto Metropolitan University's annual fashion show?
As Communications Director for Mass Exodus, I oversaw the Public Relations & Marketing and Visitor Experience committees. My job was to make sure the Mass Exodus brand was communicated consistently, our social media accounts were engaging, guests were seated quickly and enjoyed themselves, and we received adequate sponsorship and media coverage. Located in Ryerson’s Student Learning Centre for the first time, this experience was both challenging and exciting, and allowed me to work with a diverse team and exercise and develop my professional skills.
"We are able to network early on in our professional careers, learn from each other, and exercise our teamwork skills by working with people who have different experiences and perspectives.
How did you wind up at Toronto Metropolitan University? Why did you choose the Creative Industries program?
I chose the Creative Industries at Toronto Metropolitan University because it was a program I felt was unique to me. It was the perfect opportunity to not only expand on what I already know and love but to learn new things as well. With that said, what I have learned so far fits perfectly with my future career path.
What makes the Creative Industries program at Toronto Metropolitan University unique?
What makes the Creative Industries program unique is the people in it. Many of my peers come from different backgrounds with different interests. There's a lot I can learn from them, and a lot they can learn from me. Because of this, not only have I been able to work with many talented people, but I have also built strong friendships.
You're currently in your internship, how did the program prepare you for your role this summer?
Through the Creative Industries program, I have learned the skills and knowledge necessary for my desired career path. Several of my courses have tied into real world examples that have provided valuable insight into the graphic design and advertising industry. I was able to build a portfolio that ultimately landed me an internship at Buchanan Group. For this, I am extremely grateful to the program for allowing me to gain such valuable work experience.
"Through the Creative Industries program, I have learned the skills and knowledge necessary for my desired career path."
How did you wind up at Toronto Metropolitan University? Why did you choose the Creative Industries program?
At the age of eight, I had visited Toronto with my family. That day on the car ride home I told my mother that when I was old enough I was going to move to the city; from that moment on I was dedicated to researching the best universities in Toronto and instantly Toronto Metropolitan University became my dream school. By the end of my last year of high school, I was confused about whether I wanted to study Film or Radio Broadcasting. I had applied to both programs at Ryerson and was scrolling through the programs list online one last time when I saw ‘Creative Industries’. A program that promised the opportunity for me to study both Film and Radio Broadcasting; it was a no brainer, it truly felt like the program was specifically designed for each individual who was accepted.
Not many people know about the Creative Industries program. What would you want to tell people who are considering applying to the program?
Creative Industries is a fantastic program that is constantly pushing you to think outside the box to achieve goals and succeed at your passion. It is a very broad program that leaves room for endless opportunities and networking connections. When building your schedule it almost feels custom made and the perfect fit. I think teaching creative students how to make profit and connections based on their passion is a necessity. It won’t be long until we make a big splash and become known as Creatives!
"It was a no brainer, it truly felt like the program was specifically designed for each individual who was accepted."
How did you wind up at Toronto Metropolitan University? Why did you choose the Creative Industries program?
My initial interest in Toronto Metropolitan University stemmed from discovering the Creative Industries program. I hadn’t seen anything like it and was enticed by the idea of studying the things that I’m passionate about, such as music and film, while also learning about the challenges professionals face in these industries and how the industries, as a whole, are changing. I grew up in a pretty small town, and knew for a long time before my last year of high school that I wanted to experience life in a major city. Since moving to Toronto in 2013, both Toronto Metropolitan University and this city have really helped to define my personality and goals.
What about this program is most interesting to you? What are the most valuable new skills you've developed, so far?
I’ve definitely learned to define my work ethic and develop a process for being productive. Creative Industries requires me to think critically about creative work and encourages me to strive for innovation in my assignments. What I think is most interesting about the program is that it is specific enough to each student that you can only get out what you put into it. I’ve always tried to choose courses, even my electives, based on what will complement my academic interests but also reflect the work I do in my mandatory courses. I’ve found that because of this, Creative Industries has taught me a lot about my own tastes.
"I grew up in a pretty small town, and knew for a long time before my last year of high school that I wanted to experience life in a major city. Since moving to Toronto in 2013, both Toronto Metropolitan University and this city have really helped to define my personality and goals."