For alum Cantona Bolokang (CE 2T4), earning a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the University of Toronto was more than an academic achievement; it was a launchpad into a fulfilling career.
“An ECE degree gives you that foundational knowledge in engineering that people respect,” he reflects. “It opened many doors.” That foundation was only part of the equation. The University of Toronto’s vibrant ECE community and robust alumni network helped Cantona bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world opportunities. “The ECE alumni network made it easy for me to reach out to industry leaders and connect,” he says.
Beyond academics, Cantona maximized the career development resources available through ECE and the university, including résumé and LinkedIn workshops, as well as networking and cover letter seminars. But for him, one opportunity stood out above all: career fairs. “Career fairs are the gateway to opening many doors. You get to meet recruiters, share your personal story, and make connections that can shape your career,” he emphasizes.
Today, Cantona draws confidence from the challenges he faced during his time at the University of Toronto. “I feel like I can tackle every challenge right now, and that’s because I’ve tackled U of T,” he says with a smile.
When asked if it was worth it, his answer is immediate: “One thousand percent.” For Cantona, the ECE experience was not just about earning a degree; it was about gaining the skills, confidence, and connections to thrive in the real world.