Nadia Izzanee is a fourth-year Digital Media student minoring in Professional Writing. As a storyteller, she explores global youth cultures, diaspora and amplifying marginalized voices in her academic work and through creative projects.
Welcome back, lions! As the winter semester begins, I hope we’re all staying warm and cozy—maybe pour yourself a warm drink while you settle into new routines. January isn’t just about braving the cold; it’s the perfect time to prepare for your career journey. Think of it as layering up: classes, social life and now, career goals to keep you motivated through the season!
Setting goals that stick
Many resolutions often melt away faster than snow in the sun. However, the secret is structure! That’s where "master” goals come in. They sharpen your intentions and break big ambitions into clear stepping-stones you can easily follow.
Specific: Be clear and concise with your goal setting.
Measurable: Set goals you can track. Use numbers, deadlines and even milestones that make your progress visible and motivating.
Attainable: Aim for something realistic. Being ambitious is always welcomed but start with small steps you can genuinely achieve this semester.
Relevant: Connect goals to your bigger picture, whether it’s an internship, building skills or exploring a new field.
Time-bound: Give your goals a deadline. A timeline keeps you accountable and prevents goals drifting into “someday” or “when I feel like it.”
Master goals help you break your goals down into smaller, trackable steps. For example, swap “network more” with “attend two Co-Op & Career Centre workshops this semester.”
Networking that counts
Set a master goal such as “connect with three employers and follow up within a week.” Small, specific actions like this build confidence and make networking feel much less intimidating.
York's Winter Career Fair is the perfect place to turn a goal like “network more” into something intentional!
Start small before going big
Career growth is like building a snowman—start with a solid base before adding flourishes. Begin with attainable milestones: polishing your resume, updating LinkedIn or showing up to webinars. These smaller wins help build momentum for bigger leaps later in your career journey.
Try a vision board: Gather magazines and materials that represent your career dreams—whether it’s a dream company, a skill you want to master, or a lifestyle you're working towards. Get crafty by decorating and doodling until your board feels like you. Visualizing your goals, making it creative and seeing it daily can keep your motivation alive when the semester gets busy!
Prioritize what matters
Between assignments, jobs and social life, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. Ask yourself: What moves me closer to my career goals without burning me out? Maybe dedicate one evening a week to career prep or to on an internship application.
Have fun!
Career resolutions don’t have to feel like chores. Celebrate your small wins with family and friends. Treat yourself after submitting an application, share your progress with the people who love and support you or even gamify your goals with checklists and rewards. The more playful you make the process, the more likely you’ll stick with it long-term.
This winter semester is your opportunity to experiment and grow. Your future career is in your hands. Start with realistic master goals that bring you excitement. But remember: balance is a part of success. Here’s to a year of progress, possibilities and maybe even a few surprises along the way. Good luck, lions!