Journalism graduate awarded prestigious Gold Medal
Journalism graduate Ria Sidhu was awarded Toronto Metropolitan University's Gold Medal for The Creative School during this year's Convocation ceremonies. Presented annually to one graduating student in each faculty, the Gold Medal is the university's highest student honour, recognizing exceptional academic achievement alongside meaningful contributions to leadership, service and community.
Throughout her time at TMU, Sidhu distinguished herself not only through her academic success but also through her dedication to enriching the student experience. Whether creating content as a Digital Content Creator with @ChooseTMU (external link, opens in new window) , serving as President of The Society of The Creative School (external link, opens in new window) or supporting university-wide events, she consistently sought opportunities to make an impact.
A university experience built on leadership
For Sidhu, leadership has long been a defining part of her journey. At TMU, that passion evolved into opportunities to connect with students, build community and contribute to life across The Creative School.
"I've enjoyed student leadership since high school, and being able to bring that to university and make an impact is something I'll always appreciate," says Sidhu.
Looking back on her undergraduate experience, she says the opportunities to serve fellow students are among the moments she is most proud of.
"Looking back on my time at TMU, I am most proud of my time as a Digital Content Creator with @studentlifetmu (external link, opens in new window) and @choosetmu (external link, opens in new window) and my time as President of The Society of The Creative School, all while being a full-time student and juggling assignments, exams, and deadlines."
"Through both of these roles, I was able to make an impact on students, whether it was through video content I was creating or events and initiatives The Society was hosting. These opportunities led me to more opportunities like working Orientation or TMU's Open House, and I ALWAYS had so much fun at those events."
Members of The Society of The Creative School gather for a group photo during the 2025–26 academic year, when Ria Sidhu served as the society's President.
Ria Sidhu (back right) with fellow student communications content creators during her time creating digital content for the @ChooseTMU social media channels.
A recognition shared with her community
While the Gold Medal recognizes Sidhu's individual accomplishments, she views the honour as a reflection of everyone who supported her throughout her university journey.
"I am extremely honoured to be named The Creative School's Gold Medalist. Receiving this award reflects my years of hard work and commitment to my education and building student life within The Creative School, and I'm super grateful for that!"
"Most of all, receiving the award reminds me to appreciate everyone who supported my way here—family, friends, staff within The School of Journalism and The Creative School Dean's Office, my team at Student Communications, and everyone else who I randomly ran into on Gould St or in the hallways of the RCC."
Ria Sidhu poses with Journalism instructor Dr. Gary Gould, after being presented with the Weather Network Scholarship.
Ria Sidhu with her family, whose encouragement and support played an important role throughout her university journey.
Advice for future students at The Creative School
As she reflects on her time at TMU, Sidhu encourages current and future students to embrace every opportunity that comes their way.
"My advice to current and future Creative School students is to get involved. You don't know you like something until you try it!"
"The only way I made my four years as great as they were was through the people I met (fellow students and full-time staff). Also, once you put in the effort and work hard, you'll notice how many opportunities come your way, and that feeling is fulfilling!"
Sidhu's Gold Medal recognizes not only her academic excellence but the lasting impact she made on The Creative School community through leadership, collaboration and a genuine commitment to helping others make the most of their university experience.
Ria Sidhu anchors an episode of On the Record during a Journalism class at Toronto Metropolitan University.
As she graduates from TMU, Sidhu's Gold Medal serves as a fitting recognition of four years spent pursuing academic excellence while helping build community across The Creative School.
