Ever have trouble keeping up with the demand that is U of T? Though a difficult feat, many students manage to balance higher education with other goals, supplementing textbook knowledge with crucial real-world experience.
These days, it’s uncommon for employers to value only the critical thinking skills that are obtained with the typical bachelor’s degree: undergrads are finding themselves almost unemployable directly after graduation, depending of course on their extra-curriculars and part-time work experience.
Even with a degree in a specialized field (commerce, the sciences) usually requires another educational investment such as a Master’s or certificate program. With years and years of education, it’s easy to see why students lose sight of other opportunities with tunnel vision for the diploma(s).
Something employers value is initiative, and the ability to develop unique and personal side projects outside of the classroom. Zachariah Fernandes–aka Alize.S–is one of those students managing to pair his career dreams with a degree at U of T, and has managed to land impressive gigs as a young and starry-eyed second year student. We caught up with him to talk about how he keeps everything in balance.
BLOGUT: What are you taking at U of T? Do you think your education is facilitating or keeping you from pursuing music projects? In other words, how do you find that balance?
ALIZE.S: I’m currently working towards a double major in English and Book & Media Studies. I don’t believe my education takes me away from doing music. There is a time and place for each, and it is possible to keep a balance between the two. I’ve gained a lot of time management skills that I didn’t possess before because I knew I had to prioritize. Sometimes I want to spend more time on my music, but the time I spend away from it makes me anticipate it more. When I get back in front of the mic, its the best feeling in the world and its always worth the wait.
BLOGUT: How did you record your EP? Do you rent studio time? Ultimately, how do you balance the school finances while funding your own projects outside of the classroom?
ALIZE.S: I currently work with my own mic at home. I would love to rent studio time eventually, but working on my own music at home gives me full control, as well as me being able to go at it for hours on end. Plus, the new equipment I’ve started buying is giving me the sound I’ve been wanting for a while. Right now everything just works great.
BLOGUT: You recently landed an appearance on OmniTV2, how did you manage to find such a great opportunity?
ALIZE.S: My mom was watching the show and let me know that they were looking for talented artists to showcase their talents on the show. I got in touch with the host and later the producer of the show and they set up a special ‘freestyle’ segment for me to be on. It was an amazing experience and I was so grateful to have been given such an opportunity. Shows like VMIX really show the hidden talents in Toronto that can sometimes be overlooked. I really hope they’ll have me again, they were really great to me.
BLOGUT: Do you collaborate with other U of T students on your music? Who are your biggest supporters?
ALIZE.S: Of course! Right now I’m working with a talented singer by the name of LYNN. We’re released two songs so far (Heartbreaker & Roller Coaster) and people are really enjoying what we’re bringing to the table. We will be working on new material soon, which we’re excited to give to the fans. Also, one of best friends, Delina, has been a supporter from way before university. She’s currently helping me with planning and promoting my music progress. We also do visuals and youtube videos together. My other best friend Tiffany does filming for my videos and performances, and I’m so lucky to have her. My biggest supporter is my mother because she’s believed in me since Day 1 and is one of the driving forces behind my desire for success. And of course I’m nothing without the great fans, who always tune in and show me love.
BLOGUT: Why did you decide to pursue an education at U of T, and what does having a degree ultimately mean to you?
ALIZE.S: English, literature, and current media have always been topics I enjoy. I always planned to do English, but I stumbled upon Book & Media Studies and fell in love. I’ve been taking really interesting courses and have met some great profs as well as students. A degree would mean the world to me. A lot of people tried to count me out, but I’m still here pushing towards something few get to experience. I’m proof you can have a dream and an education at the same time.
For more on Alize.S follow him on his social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
