On September 23 and 27, 2024, mentors from the Print Wisdom student mentorship program visited students in the Graphic Communications Management (GCM) program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). These events offered a unique opportunity for students to engage directly with experienced professionals from the graphic communications industry. The mentors shared invaluable insights, covering everything from navigating internships to building successful careers in an evolving industry.
The Print Wisdom program is a free mentorship initiative designed to help students transition smoothly from university into the workforce. With access to industry leaders, students gain critical guidance, career advice, and motivation, making it easier for them to determine which career path aligns with their goals. Mentors are there to help students make informed decisions about where they can fit within the graphic communications landscape.
September 23 Visit: A Focus on Leadership and Career Success
On September 23, a panel of mentors, including Bob Dale, Heather Black, and Ken Freek, visited a management studies class at TMU. They were joined by industry professionals Janet Carmichael and Julie Anne McLaren, sharing their expertise in leadership, project management, and the key attributes they look for in potential employees. The discussion revolved around leadership strategies and the management functions vital to success in the graphic communications field.
Students were eager to learn more about the transition from education to the workplace, and the mentors did not disappoint. They stressed the importance of showing initiative, staying curious, and the value of asking questions. They also advised students to embrace opportunities that come their way, even if they seem intimidating at first. As Heather Black pointed out, “Don’t be afraid to say yes to new challenges. It’s how you grow.” The session emphasized that leadership is not a solo journey; it involves learning from others and seeking mentorship when needed.
September 27 Visit: Preparing for the Job Market
On September 27, another session focused on job market preparedness. This time, Heather Black, Janet Carmichael and Ken Freek returned, joined by Nicole Morrison, Anne Greenwood, and Jason Foubert. During this visit, the mentors discussed practical steps students can take to stand out in a competitive job market. The event focused on refining resumes, building strong online profiles, and preparing for job interviews—key tools that will help students secure internships and full-time positions after graduation.
Nicole Morrison spoke about the value of mentorship in helping students understand where they fit within the industry. “Connecting with professionals early in your career gives you an edge,” she explained, “You’ll gain clarity on which areas of the industry might be the best fit for you, and you’ll feel more confident entering the job market.” The mentors also emphasized the growing influence of technology and AI in the job application process, offering advice on how students can use these tools effectively.
The Importance of Mentorship
The Print Wisdom program plays an integral role in ensuring that students from TMU’s GCM program are well-prepared for their future careers. As the students enter their final years, many are anxious about the uncertainties of the job market. The program not only helps reduce this anxiety but also opens doors to opportunities they might not otherwise have known about. Through one-on-one mentorship, students get a clearer picture of their career path, improving their confidence and readiness for their professional journey.
Both sessions provided students with a real-world perspective on the graphic communications industry. These interactions are part of a broader effort to bridge the gap between academia and the workplace, ensuring that students have the skills and confidence to succeed after graduation.
Conclusion
The mentorship sessions at TMU were a resounding success, with students expressing gratitude for the guidance and knowledge shared by the mentors. Through Print Wisdom, TMU’s GCM students are gaining a distinct advantage as they prepare to launch their careers in the graphic communications industry. The mentorship program continues to foster leadership and industry connections that will benefit both the students and the industry at large.
As Print Wisdom continues its work, it reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the graphic communications field, ensuring a bright future for both the students and the industry they will help shape.
Image courtesy of GCM at TMU
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