Curious how other students are spending Valentine’s Day? Here’s some inspo, whether you’re boo’d up, vibing with your besties, or happily flying solo. We’ve got budget-friendly ideas and a few little splurges coming your way. Big love on a small budget ? “The dollar store can totally be your friend if you want to put…
After a few months of intense schoolwork and studying for what feels like an eternity, the winter break is the perfect time to recharge and recenter. Whether it’s sleeping in everyday, or rewatching Wicked: For Good for the (2nd… 10th time), there are ways to make the most of your well earned precious time off.…
There’s a learning curve to every new season in life. Adjusting to post-secondary life can be somewhat overwhelming and you’ll be forgiven if you make any (or all) of these very common student mistakes. For many students, it’s the first time you’re moving away from home, the first time you’re juggling debt, and it might…
Thinking about starting your own container garden? You’ll want to know what it is, and what the benefits are.
What do we gain from gardening? Are gardens worth the hassle? Here’s why Pamela grows Wild Strawberries and Saskatoon Berries.
Supporting local wildlife and promoting healthy and thriving ecosystems is so important. You can start by creating a container garden!
From proper sleep to your GPA—breaking down the realities of post-secondary life that they never tell you about when entering college or university. Honesty is more helpful than lies, half-truths, and sugar-coated crap. But the latter is what way too many students hear when they ask questions about post-secondary life. Most of the time, anyway.…
Not every student is able (or has the desire) to live on res when they head off to college or university. If you’re planning on commuting to class, here are some things you should know about the realities of being an off-campus student. 1. Getting Involved Is Key It can be difficult to establish friendships…
Considering a gap year? Here’s what you need to know… I remember the feeling so distinctly. I had just turned 17. It was spring and I was finishing Grade 12 and would soon be graduating high school. I had spent years pushing myself to fit the mould that I felt everyone else fit so easily.…
I am Madelaine McCracken and I am Métis. It has taken me years to be comfortable to say this statement aloud and connect with my identity. Every day, I am working to understand what being Métis means to me and to my family, as we did not grow up with culture, but we did grow…
As you go through life, it’s inevitable that you’ll lose some friends along the way. You might go to different schools, move to different places, or simply lose touch. There will also be friends that you may hang onto for years, which is great! Those are the people you can depend on, hang out with,…
Here are 20 signs you’re totally over being a student in your fourth year. Sure, being a student was fun during your frosh week. But now it’s four years later. You’ve been to every themed party imaginable. Your bank account is lower than dirt. You made it through online school. And you might just be…
Delissio Crispy Pan Hawaiian Pizza? It cooks in its own pan! Delissio’s revolutionary new Crispy Pan Pizza cooks in its own pan for a crispy, caramelized crust and edge-to-edge cheese. Yum.
You’re lying in bed, or brushing your teeth, or cramming for a final and all of a sudden you’re awash with a flood of terrifying midnight thoughts. You know what I’m talking about. First, there’s the future of your university career and whether or not you’re really cut out for the professional workforce. Then, you’re…
Whatever your reason for working through school, you’ve likely wondered whether you’re doing the right thing. Especially if your work-school balance is suffering. It’s okay to wonder whether it’s worth putting yourself through the challenge of managing work and school, setting your social life aside for much-needed cash, or earning industry experience at the expense…
Dear First-Year Self, This may be hard to take—and you’ll probably roll your eyes as you read this—but I’ve been on the same boat as you. I’ve been through it all. I’ve stressed over the same silly things that you have and made the same old mistakes. So take heed as I offer you this…
Ah, a fresh start on the school year! New classes. New classmates. New profs. And the same old habits! Students are great at making New Year’s resolutions…and breaking them. Hell, isn’t everyone? Here are some of the most common New Year’s Resolutions students have. Don’t feel too bad if any of them sound like something…
Oh, the holiday season. Every year, thousands of people look forward to December, with celebrations lined up one after another. This year, COVID-19 has dampened many of our plans. Still, we can make the best of the situation. Using my Diwali celebrations as a learning experience, here are four ways to celebrate during COVID-19 and…
High school becomes a distant memory once you graduate. And all of a sudden, things like seeing family, skipping class, and even buying groceries take on a very different shape when you get to post-secondary. As you walk across that stage and get your diploma, it’s like you make a magical transition into this new…
We’re bombarded with unrealistic expectations of the post-secondary experience by parents, teachers, the media, movies, and even friends. However, I have discovered that most of these are nothing but fables. Let’s call them for what they really are: college and university myths, because I’m calling bullshit. Here are the most common college and university myths I encountered before I…
Missing your friends, family, or even a significant other? It’s tough to maintain any sort of long-distance relationship, but we have some ways to help. It’s somewhat unusual to say that you’d met your soul sister at age seven. But I did, and I still feel that way. My best friend and I were joined to the hip…
If you’re entering post-secondary, you’re in for a fun ride. Here’s how to be successful in first year as you take on college or university. Woo! High school is a great learning experience, but my time at university left me feeling like myself for the first time. I had such a memorable experience and picked…
From meeting new people to gaining administrative, creative, and leadership experience—joining a student club can set you up for wild success. Here’s the drill. You want to get some of that free swag or maybe a nice-looking baked good from one of the groups at your school but you know it often comes with a hidden cost:…
First-year students tend to get nervous about the first week of school, so let us ease your anxiety. Orientation week (a.k.a. frosh week and welcome week) is filled with excitement and new beginnings! Along with tons of learning to do, there’s also a bunch of activities to partake in. What should you expect during Orientation Week?…
Moving away from home and into your own place is thrilling. It is. You finally get to live with your besties (or soon-to-be-besties) and do whatever you want, whenever you want. But don’t fall into any of these common traps or you risk becoming that awful roommate everyone hates. Learning to live with someone that…
The stresses of being a student are no joke. If you’re feeling the heat, consider one of these stress management tips. The start of an academic year is a time buzzing with nervous excitement and chaos. But as the school year progresses, anxiety slowly begins to pile on in the form of heavy parcels, all…
For the class of 2020… An envelope arrives from the University of Toronto. “It’s a big one!” my mom says. I run up the stairs to open the package. “Oh, it’s just my certificate of graduation,” I say, disappointed. Not a package of money or a letter of acceptance to grad school. Just a fancy…
Have you taken online exams? Many students don’t know what to expect when it comes to online exams. It may seem like a foreign concept. However, with this drastic school change to online learning, your exams probably aren’t cancelled. Online tests are on the way. So, how can you prepare? Review Test Guidelines Read over…
With schools switching to an online method of teaching for the rest of the semester, how will students finish their group projects and assignments? Many tools are available to help students collaborate from the comfort and safety of their homes during these critical times. The most important factor in group work, especially online, is laying…
As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, Canadians are asked to socially distance themselves. But what does social distancing really mean for students? Well, it means: Staying home Not inviting friends over No unnecessary meet-ups Therefore, we find other ways to keep in touch with friends and family. We also need to find things to…
By Myles Bloomquist As you may have heard several times before, rules keep us safe. Standards, guidelines, and laws are in place to keep our world on the path to success. At least, that’s what they tell us. In a world where every human is one of a kind, it is apparent that traditional standards…
Those few years of college or university fly by faster than you think. Most people wish they could have done things differently if they had the chance to go back. Whether you’re about to start your postsecondary journey or are in the midst of it, here are 5 things I wish I did as an…
The mentality of picking a career just because of the money and potential benefits is toxic to a student, resulting in: A waste of time and effort to choose a job that the student’s not really interested in. Disappointment. Crushed dreams that were unrealistic in the first place. Now, graduating students might be stressing out…
Back in 2018, the average Canadian consumer planned to spend around $675 in total during the holiday season, including gifts, travel, and more. While I’m not shaming anyone who spends over $100 in gifts, I think it’s important to put thought into the gifts we spend so much money on. So, create a gift guide for…
Being a student has its ups and downs, good and bad days. There are a ton of cool things we get to experience without the weighing expectations of being a full-blown adult yet because hey, we’re students. We’re getting a degree. We’re still growing up, but we are certainly not working a full-time job… so…
Exhaustion. We’ve all been there. Your brain is feeling fuzzy and your mind is not functioning at the level it should be because you’re feeling drained. It stings, doesn’t it? Well, one of the worst things you can do for yourself is to try to fight it. Instead, consider embracing your tiredness and give in…
As a student with disabilities, I often find myself advocating for my own needs. Whether the accommodations come in the form of extra time for tests and exams, extensions on papers, or assistance with time management and organizational skills—I have a right to have access to these accommodations. I found myself in an unfortunate situation…
By Lauren Bernardo You personally are the only individual that can determine whether or not you made the most of your summer from a personal development standpoint. But here are a few things to consider, and a few things that you can do before you head back to school. Have you achieved the goals you…
By Mercedes Rowinsky-Geurts PhD Getting in touch with a professor can be a daunting task. Students usually feel intimidated. They think that professors don’t want to be disturbed, so they avoid them. Well, let me talk to you about something we call office hours. If you look carefully at your course outline, you will find…
Originally published on StudentAwards.com With Winter Break and March break just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how you want to spend your time off. You’ll have a whole week to yourself. So, make the most of it! Be One with the Snow There’s so much snow outside, you might as well…
By Erin McQueenie The adjustment from living at home with parents and siblings to living in residence surrounded by hundreds of teenagers was not a smooth transition for me. Many of my peers struggled with the transition as well. I lived in Delaware Hall at Western University two years ago. In addition to moving away…
Refer to this handy checklist when buying and packing for your year in residence. And you will be totally prepared for the dorm room lifestyle! The Essentials wallet, purse, hand bag ID, license cash, change, credit cards, debit cards ATM Card watch glasses, contacts Basic Kitchen Stuff (even if you won’t have a kitchen in…
By Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to protect yourself from identity theft. But there are steps you can take to minimize the chances that your information will be stolen and used by a thief. Carry only the cards you need in your wallet. It’s a good idea to…
Students lead a nomadic lifestyle. From home to school and the library to lecture halls, students are constantly on the go. With limited time and a more limited budget, how ecologically sustainable is your student lifestyle? William Rees, a Canadian ecologist and professor at the University of British Columbia, coined the term Ecological Footprint, which…
By Lisa S We can tweet in church, Instagram in class and text in public restrooms. But does this mean that this digital etiquette is socially acceptable? I was inspired to discuss digital etiquette following an experience I had at a restaurant a few weeks ago. I saw a scene we are all too familiar…
You’re probably wondering what these hard decisions could be. After all, you’re a student. Your responsibilities consist of going to class, getting work done, eating, sleeping, and socializing before doing it all again the next day. Am I right? Well, there are hard decisions hidden there. What about the small choices you make that impact the…
Okay, so, you survive ten years of elementary school (or babysitting… whatever you prefer to call it). And another 4 years of high school (slightly more glorified babysitting) and now you’re ready to embark on your toughest educational journey yet: achieving a post-secondary degree. Get ready for those first-year experiences! While this may seem like…
Find the perfect balance between keeping those well-needed boundaries and having a stress-free roommate! Post high school dorm rooms are one of the best places to create long-term relationships. But it’s also a place where you’re still finding yourself. It’s important to remember that the people around you are doing the same, so there’s always…
Whether you’re living at home, on residence, or wherever— having your own space has its ups and downs. One may be that you don’t think it’s worth decorating for the season. And you would be WRONG. Decorating for Autumn can be fun, so you keep feeling the Fall vibes even when you’re couped up in…
When I moved away to attend grad school, it was my first time living alone in an entirely new city. Prior to that, I lived in the same place for over ten years and commuted to university for undergrad. Even though I was a full-fledged (young) adult, I was pretty nervous and didn’t know how…
Failure is NOT the end of the world. You can bounce back from it. Here are some practical tips for not letting the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game (Shout out to A Cinderella Story). No matter which stage of your life you find yourself in, you will likely experience some…
Congratulations! You did it! You made it to the school of your choice, moved into residence, and sat in your first-year university lectures! Life is great… or is it? Transitioning from high school to post-secondary is hard. You’ve worked your butt off to get to this point and sometimes it might not meet your…
As students, we are the future generation getting ready to take over the world (no pressure or anything). But it’s the truth. We are changemakers-in-training on the cusp of being released into the wild with the goal of making a difference. However, no matter the type of degree we are pursuing, we have a collective…
Reading Week is a precious gift that must not be squandered. Become a master with these five tips! Reading Week is a blessing, truly. It’s that break in the semester when new assignments don’t come in. You’re able to catch your breath, work ahead, or catch up. That said, the week goes by FAST. You…
So you finished all your back to school shopping, but you’re not exactly loving your backpack. Is it time to get a new one? We made a list of the top backpacks to hold your laptop, notebooks, pens, chargers, lip chap, phone, and everything else you need. What backpacks are best for school? Vaschy Unisex Denim…
Starting your first year at a commuter university or college campus comes with its own challenges. You are starting a new chapter with new people. The difficulty is fostering lasting friendships while living off-campus. We have all had moments where we envied the people that moved out and lived at their school residences. We also…
Moving to a college or university can be lonely and even a little unsettling at first, but so many students are in the same position as you, ergo YOU ARE NOT ALONE. And most of them want to make friends! Besides, there are plenty of opportunities to make friends in college/university if you’re willing to branch out.…
What food should you buy for your dorm room? That’s the ultimate question, isn’t it? Food is one of the most important things you’ll need to pack, so you don’t have to eat fast food and take-out all the time. But what is essential for dorm room groceries? What do you absolutely NEED? Fuel You need the…
That college/university experience is just around the corner! Are you prepared? With these 15 must-have items, you’ll be ready to have an epic post-secondary experience. Best of all, you can purchase these must-have items from the comfort of your home with Amazon Student Prime. Twinkly Lights Create the perfect atmosphere for your cozy dorm so…
It’s your first year of university! You’re moving out of your parents’ house and into a dorm room, but when you’re choosing a residence to spend your entire first-year experience, you may feel conflicted about the sudden influx of choices. Do you want a single room? Double room? Suite style? Do you want brand new…
So, I just finished my first year of university without spontaneously combusting, which (to me) is an accomplishment. The first year of university is a milestone for everyone. It’s the place of new friendships, possibly breaking the old, and where you try to find your place. That can be scary, which is why I compiled…
Some of you may be totally excited about this because you know what awaits you. On the other hand, the rest of you might be rolling your eyes because you’re not ready to give up your sweet freedom. Allow us to make a case for why you should be AMPED UP about being home for the…
“I’m coming out, I want the world to know, I got to let it show.” Although, Diana Ross made “coming out” seem like a timeless BOP that’s catchy, upbeat and super easy to sing along to. Actually coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community is not as easy. If you’ve ever seen any…
University is stressful, and students will probably always need some way to wind down. Enter the University Pub, the most accessible place to destroy your brain after you just spent all day trying to educate it. Perhaps I’ve shown my cards. I have to admit, I’m a little biased. Alcohol is the most harmful drug…
The end of June is fast approaching. Sooner than you think, you will be seeing “Back to School” ads everywhere on TV, in newspapers and all over the internet. Whether you are studying, working, or at home, here’s how to make the best of the remainder of your summer: For those in school Whether your…
“April hath put a spirit of youth in everything” – William Shakespeare June is spring at its finest. A month filled with showers, flowers and a season of limitless possibilities. Nature changes all around us as the grass turns greener, the birds serenade all day long and spring cleaning is in full effect. For students,…
Education after high school can be a scary thing. The transition from high school to post-secondary is huge, and although change is good, it’s often scary. So if you’re starting post-secondary school in the fall, it’s completely normal if you have some (or all) of these fears running through your head. Here are some common freshman…
We interviewed a prom rep. to find out what you might be forgetting to do before your prom. It’s getting close to that time of year, folks. It’s time to start thinking seriously about prom. I interviewed a current high school prom rep. to find out what you’re most likely to forget about, or to…
All of this. Just for being a student. Check out this amazing deal. As a student, you get a tonne of amazing deals from companies trying to get your long-term business. We’ve scoured through dozens of these deals trying to find some of the best ones available– this is one of them. Here’s a list…
Summer may seem daunting if you’re overly concerned about what you SHOULD be doing over the next few months of your freedom. The summer scaries can be a real issue for just about anybody. Summer is almost here, and you’re about to have a whole lot of time on your hands. So how do you spend…
It’s your first year of college or university—do you know what that means? Student residence! Dorm rooms can be a small, tough space to fit all of your clothes, shoes, essentials, food, notebooks, textbooks, bunny slippers, and everything else you need throughout the year. Let’s be real, sometimes we bring more than we actually need.…
A funny thing happened to me the day I graduated. It was a normal graduation day. I put on the gown and the big square hat. I stood in line with my classmates as we laughed and reminisced about our good times. The dean of the university and guest speaker, Aaron Greenspan (one of Canada’s best…
As a student, we are paying so much money to attend college and/or university. What you don’t understand until you arrive is that your grades will not stay where they were. Marks drop in post-secondary, sometimes significantly. This can lead to piles of stress added onto an already very full plate. It can also lead…
I am privileged to not be a victim of sexual assault It’s sad that not being assaulted is a privilege. As a woman, I deal with sexual harassment at least once a week. I once waited at a stoplight and when the light changed a stranger tried to grab my coat hood. When I turned…
If only high school taught us how to meal prep on $30/week. Despite what decades of college movies have told us, the human body cannot survive exclusively on ramen and PBR. You must eat, and you should probably eat like an adult who understands the food pyramid. Grocery shopping on a budget is actually a…
Same day exams can suck if you’re not prepared to handle them. So, don’t complain and complain and complain… get ready to face your double-exam day head on and prosper! Prepare Plan ahead of time and set up an exam calendar. This can make a huge difference when you’re blocking off studying time. Start reviewing…
We’ve all been there. From scheduling classes on a Friday to being afraid of meeting new people, there are things we wish we’d done differently as a first-year student. For all you future freshmen, review these mistakes so you can do BETTER: Leaving ALL the Studying or Essay Work for the Night Before Sometimes we…
Like any good workspace, your kitchen requires the right tools. But when you’re moving out on your own for the first time, how do you know what you’ll need? You shouldn’t buy an abundance of tools you’ll never use—especially if you’re living on a student budget—so put a cap on your spending. Gather kitchen supplies…
“Hey, are you still there?” “Do you want to continue watching?” You have the remote, so it’s your decision. Netflix binging can be a real issue and we all know it. When there are a million things to do, it’s easier to sit back, toss our feet up, and let procrastination happen. In the end,…
You’ve been watching Spongebob Squarepants wrong your entire childhood. Do you remember Spongebob’s annoyed tentacle neighbour, Squidward? I once thought I was supposed to be like the lively and free-spirited yellow sponge, but as I’ve gotten older, it’s apparent that I relate way more to Squidward. I’m sure many of you feel this way. And these…
What could sticky notes be used for besides taking notes? Well, pull up a seat dear friend because I’m about to tell you. They can be used for so MANY tasks, especially when it comes to student living, so get ready to have your mind blown by creativeness. Bookmarks This one’s somewhat obvious, but ……
First and foremost, what is entropy? The dictionary defines entropy as a “lack of order and predictability; a gradual decline into disorder.” Does this sound familiar to you? Basically, entropy is the measure of disorder. So how can we combat the lingering touch of disorder in our lives? We fight back … although, not literally.…
When you’re in a long distance relationship, there are a lot of struggles along the way. The holiday season is a big one. A time when you and your partner should be attending family christmas parties and kissing under the mistletoe is spent miles and time zones apart. I’ve been in a long-distance relationship for…
This past week has been a roller coaster ride for fans of the show, Friends. After rumours emerged that the popular sitcom would be leaving Netflix, Twitter erupted with an outcry of disapproval from heartbroken viewers. Fan reactions: Friends is leaving @netflix on January 1st. Just cancel the whole year. 2019 is gonna be trash.…
We’re approaching that time of year again, but I’m sure you already know which one I’m referring to. The dreaded EXAM TIME. Whether we’re facing midterms or final exams, this time of year is brutal for us all. Let’s see what awaits us in the coming weeks, shall we? 1. We’re Ready Let’s start off…
Moving abroad is an exciting time. It is an opportunity for one to grow while discovering a new culture, learning a language and meeting new friends. For most people, these three factors are already exciting enough to not even think of the possibility of falling in love with someone overseas. But like most things in life,…
The transition from high school to post-secondary can be challenging. I was no exception. I didn’t do poorly, however, I know I didn’t take advantage of the opportunities post-secondary education had to offer. While I had a good start to university and made a few close friends, it all came crashing down after breaking up…
In my senior year of high school, a teacher of mine recommended that I write a letter to be opened at the end of my post-secondary experience. The rules were simple: Write whatever you’d like to know about yourself and the future. Just don’t open that letter until you’ve graduated from college or university. Speaking…
Between classes, work, and your social life, eating quality home-made meals can be tough. There are, however, many inexpensive meals that you can make in no time that taste just as good as a meal out. Being a student can be tough and getting in quality meals can be hard when you’re on the go.…
Let me start by saying that creating a student organization on campus can be a lot of work. However, it can also be the most rewarding experience of your post-secondary career. As an introvert, I often found myself reluctant to join any group activities. But in my first year, I felt the need to step…
Before expanding my knowledge of fashion by studying Fashion Marketing, I was a Style Guru, Editorial, and Senior Editorial Intern for CollegeFashionista. Writing articles about fashion on campus gave me amazing perspective into the relationship between fashion and function. Here are my Top 5 styling tips for heading back to school in style. 1. Saving…
A few weeks into my first semester, I ran out of people willing to give me a ride. For the rest of my time at university, I became a semi-pro commuter. My preferred modes of transportation? Buses and trains. I learned the public transit system through trial & error, including my fair share of embarrassing moments…
Whether you’re celebrating Canada Day or your birthday, there’s a few things that you can do take your party from good to great. Thankfully, none of them involve dipping into your student loans. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to plan your party without breaking the bank. 1. Have A Clear Vision Having a clear…
I applied to university with little-to-no idea what I was going to study, and I decided on my major a few hours before the confirmation deadline. Going to university was just a given—I didn’t think that I had another option. I mean, it’s what I was apparently working towards my entire life. So I rushed…
Are you feeling anxious about going to college or university? You’re not alone. I found the transition from high school to post-secondary to be disorienting at first. Very quickly, you’ll learn that your newfound independence comes with a price: the need to be organized, disciplined, and self-motivated. Take it from a fellow student who recently…
I admit it—I’m a party animal. But the animal in question happens to be a hamster. “I’m a Party Hamster.” That right there has always been my response when asked by my actual party animal friends why I’d like to be in bed by 11:00 p.m. on a Friday night. Some of us aren’t actually…
After a couple of years, countless semesters, and what feels like a lifetime of assignments, post-secondary students across the globe are entering “graduation season”. Unlike “exam season”, “graduation season” is an exciting time in the life of a student because it means THEY’RE OFFICIAL DONE! However, graduating isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. In reality it…
As a woman accepted into an aviation program, I wasn’t oblivious to the state of the industry. I knew the stats. And how I felt on my first day of class motivated me to change them. Am I in the wrong room? I remember my first day at college like it was yesterday. Feeling nervous,…
I’ve been living in Toronto for three years now. Like most students, I moved downtown at the beginning of my first year of university. Within the span of two months I went from living with my mom in the quiet, albeit boring, suburbs, to living in an apartment in the heart of Toronto. This meant…
Art With Impact Canada is an organization based out of Ontario – with a flagship organization in San Francisco, California – that, in their own words, “promotes mental wellness by creating spaces for young people to learn and connect through art and media.” One of the ways the organization does this is by promoting student-made…
When I told my mom that I wanted to backpack across Europe alone after graduation, she nearly had a heart attack. She listed off a handful of reasons why it would be a bad idea: “It’s too much work.” “You’ll be lonely.” “You can’t speak the language(s).” “You’ll be in grave danger travelling alone as…
Student struggles are for real. And from time to time, we’ve all found ourselves Google searching something embarrassing. Like literally any of these. 1. When you suck at adulting. 2. When you’ve finished all your finals and you’re ready for a good time. 3. When you’re ready for a good time but you’re on a…
Basically, the entire student experience summed up in memes. At least they’re funny. Sometimes, you just have to laugh at tough the entire student experience basically is. So join us, as we illustrate just how funny-not-funny being a student actually is. 1. When people ask “How’s School?” 2. When you make yourself promises you can’t…
The college strike is over. After more than a month without classes, Kathleen Wynne’s Liberal government has pushed through back-to-work legislation. That means the 12,000 professors, instructors, counsellors and librarians, who had been on strike since Oct. 15, are now forced to return after negotiations between OPSEU (their union) and the government stalled. But what does…
Winter is upon us. Which means we can woefully put the PSLs behind us and begin drinking six-dollar peppermint-mocha lattes out of those festive red paper cups. And much like the infinity scarves we’re all about to purchase, conversations about spiced-apple candles, Will Ferrell’s “ELF,” and that Christmas song that drives you insane (‘Wonderful Christmas Time’) will be circling around for…
For when living off-campus is no longer just fun and games. Life off campus is one step closer to independence. If you’ve made the transition, these are the little tips you’ll want to adopt to help with realities you’re all too familiar with. Rant #1: The Word “Commute” Strikes Fear Deep Into Your Heart Your transportation situation is a major…
Both Weinstein and academias silence women’s sexual assault allegations. Enough is enough. If you’re slightly out of the loop—The Weinstein Company has recently fired world renowned movie producer and co-founder, Harvey Weinstein due to a New York Times investigation that unravelled and illuminated the truth behind his misconducts. Several allegations surrounding sexual harassment, assault and rape…
This is a guide on the options available to report a sexual assault, should you find yourself a victim. A nationwide student survey has found that Canadian universities average a C- in how their policies deal with sexual violence on campus. The survey was conducted by a student-led organization called Our-Turn. Their full action plan is available here.…
Alcohol can be fun. Waking up clueless in a hospital isn’t. It’s Friday night and you put on that fresh shirt you bought from the discount section of H&M, because the rest of your money is on lay-away for the mass drinking that will take place in a few hours. Drinking causes more hospitalizations than heart attacks.…
I live in a house of eight, 21-year-old girls. If you’re already thinking to yourself, “that sounds like an estrogen-infested nightmare, one with a foreseeable apocalypse due to raging hormones and emotionally-charged decision-making” – you are correct. Now, don’t get me wrong. Living with a lot of people has its perks. Over time, your roommate’s…
Visibility does not automatically equal social progress. Earlier in the summer, large franchises began to paint themselves and their products with the world’s most universal symbol of LGBTQ+ pride: the rainbow. (Think: Facebook added a rainbow reaction button, and Skittles changed their vibrant packaging to plain old black and white–so as not to steal any…
We’ve all been there. As summer wears on and the novelty of being back home wears off, you might be finding that being back under your parents’ roof has been… a little difficult. Spending months away from your humble abode while you’re in school definitely changes you. And whether you want to admit it or…
“People who you don’t know and don’t have communications with say things about you. It’s a strange thing.” As a competitor on University Challenge (a popular British quiz show), Eric Monkman knows a thing or two about Twitter fame. And studying for tests. To be competitive on the show, Eric had to recall information on everything…
Don’t panic. Here’s what to do. In GIFs. So, you’re all set. Those floppy graduation hats are ready to be thrown, fresh yearbooks are ready to be signed, and tears (who chopped all of those onions?) are welling up in your eyes, ready to be cried. University acceptances: check. Dorm fees: check. Summer plans and/or job: triple check.…
A statistic from Annie Leonard’s The Story of Stuff continues to haunt me. It’s that 99% of stuff we buy is thrown in the garbage within six months. How do we avoid contributing to this cycle and still show our loved ones we were thinking about them and didn’t just cheap out in the gift department?…
You’ll probably find yourself doing a lot of partying at school. It’s a great way to blow off steam and many will argue that a good dose of rowdiness is all part of your well-balanced college breakfastOn-campus events are great because they’re generally cheaper than partying at off-campus bars and clubs, you get to interact with…
Everyone thinks they were the weirdest kid growing up. You’re wrong, because I was the weirdest and my mom can vouch for me. When I was in grade one, I decided to ask her a question — a question I now deem critical to my childhood development. Because I just HAD to know about sex.…
When I think about this question, “Both!” is the obvious answer in my books. But let’s assume we’re talking about that trip of a lifetime that you have years’ worth of savings for. When’s the very best time to take it? Us students are pressured to finish high school, race through our undergrads, and then…
Failing sucks. Whether you’ve flunked one class or all of them, you may take it as a sign to chase other dreams or just call it quits altogether. But hold up, because we’ve got some advice on how to retake those courses that put up a fight the first time around. Along the way, you’ll…
I have now been in Uganda for just over two weeks, and I’m settling in well to life in Kampala. It took my body a while to adjust to the different time zone, but after a few days, I was good to go. My first recreational visit of the trip was to the National Mosque,…
High school is, universally, the prime time for being boy-crazy. All you can think about is landing yourself the hottest arm candy before anyone else does—and once you do, you daydream about how cute you’ll look at prom together, think of almost nothing but them, and ceaselessly doodle their last name after your first name…
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a compendium of useful, student-related, or otherwise cool news right at your disposal? I mean, the happenings of the outside world aren’t limited to our Facebook feeds, and it’s not exactly efficient to scour a dozen blogs and news sources just to see their latest content. So we did…
Before I begin, I have to make one thing clear: I’ve wanted to visit Uganda for a very, very long time. So much so that when I went to India last summer, I began planning my next trip the very moment I returned home. You can imagine my sheer excitement when I was able to sign…
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a compendium of useful, student-related, or otherwise cool news right at your disposal? I mean, the happenings of the outside world aren’t limited to our Facebook feeds, and it’s not exactly efficient to scour a dozen blogs and news sources just to see their latest content. So we did…
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a compendium of useful, student-related, or otherwise cool news right at your disposal? I mean, the happenings of the outside world aren’t limited to our Facebook feeds, and it’s not exactly efficient to scour a dozen blogs and news sources just to see their latest content. So we did…
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a compendium of useful, student-related, or otherwise cool news right at your disposal? I mean, the happenings of the outside world aren’t limited to our Facebook feeds, and it’s not exactly efficient to scour a dozen blogs and news sources just to see their latest content. So we did…
First year is always the hardest, especially when you’ve moved out for school. You’re taken out of your normal, comfortable environment and thrown into a new one where everything is unfamiliar. You have to buy your own food. Clean your own house. Do your own dishes. It’s inhuman, really—and although it’s probably been a while since…
We’re old enough to admit that making drastic, life-changing New Year’s resolutions don’t work. We’ve failed at them enough times, so this year will be different; this year, we’re going to be clever about it. In case you’re wondering who I am to be chirping ideals, I’m a success blogger. I spend a lot of time…
I ended up sticking around high school for a fifth year, and this past semester was way quieter than what I’d been used to. Sure, I had another friend group to keep me entertained, but to call the experience “The Grade 12 Chronicles: Part Two” would be like calling my elementary music class a professional orchestra. It just didn’t compare at all. And…
As students, we don’t always have our priorities completely straight, and we’re constantly juggling in-the-moment living with worries about our future. Like when we nurture our friendships and try to get good grades. Or better yet, when we consume sugary lattes but always make it to yoga class on time. It’s hard to focus on…
Look, I love Drizzy as much as the next girl, but the more I listen to “Hotline Bling” the more I realize Drake has some serious issues. Drake is the biggest rapper in the world (bar Kanye), so why is he dropping lyrics that make him sound like my whiny ex who was a big…
Ever feel like you’re wasting your life away sitting on public transit? As students, many of us (with the exception of those lucky on-campus dwellers) spend a significant amount of our days commuting to and from school. The “free” bus pass some schools offer can be nice, but it really feels like we could get…
You’ll meet a variety of students at college or university. Some of them will become a beloved part of your social circle. Others will make you want to stab your face with a corkscrew after spending two minutes with them. Whatever the case, here’s a compendium of the ten types of students you’re bound to meet at…
Don’t get me wrong on this one—school is important. Knowing you earned an A just by working your ass off (instead of going out with friends every single night) is pretty rewarding. But when it feels like all your time and energy is being invested in your studies, that’s the opposite of rewarding. After all, “all…
Universities and colleges offer a staggering amount of classes. But when you’re in a specific program or pursuing a certain major, there’s always a list of mandatory courses you need to take to meet your degree’s graduation criteria. While there are going to be lots of classes you have to take, there’s also going to…
It’s 5:50 a.m. My phone alarm is blaring at my bedside. I struggle to open my crust-laden eyes, groggy from lack of sleep—I have to pull my eyelids open to stay awake. It’s 5:54 and my alarm is still going off. I figure I should get up. I roll out of bed and throw on the same…
Society expects a lot from us students. Many of these expectations are attainable, but some are impossible to even try to fulfill—like knowing exactly what our lives will look like 20 years down the road. We need to know if we’ll have a family, own a house, and have a solid career that pays the…
A lot of people will try to give you advice and insider hints on how to survive your days at post-secondary. But just how accurate are these myths? We’re going to determine which of these popular sayings have truth to them and which are downright wrong—hopefully we’ll be able to ease some of your fears…
Last summer, I had the opportunity to go to Europe for a month with a tour group called Top Deck. It was a 28-day excursion with 19 stops in 13 countries all over Europe. I went canyoning in Austria, climbed to the top of the Eiffel Tower and l’Arc de Triomphe, ate way too much…
Democracy has existed since ancient times, but our current electoral method is not what it once was. Voting has not always been a common right. Many voices went unheard, many opinions once sat discarded, and a bitter taste lingered in the mouths of those deemed unworthy to impact the politics of their own country. Today, our voting rights…
It can be easy to fall into the “new year, new me” mindset where you’re set on creating goals for yourself but not set on figuring out how you’ll accomplish them. Goal-setting is basically an art form; it takes planning, persistence, and a bit of creativity here and there. Here’s how to set goals, strive…
How come we take photos? It’s a simple question with a thousand answers. Is it for social media? To treasure a special moment? To kickstart a photography career? It’s safe to say that we’ve all wanted to capture moments that we can appreciate later on, but here are a few reasons why you should never,…
Well, it’s official. Those of you who’ve gone away for school are now cozily nestled in your dorms and apartments, the luxury of going to class in your pyjamas right at your beck and call. We’d be lying if we said we weren’t jealous. The freedom. The friends. The minimal amount of time it takes…
Let’s face it: for most of us, smartphones are just distracting teenager toys that prevent us from being productive (“must… refresh… Facebook app”). But they don’t have to be—I’m here to show you some apps that’ll make your student life way easier. To start off this marvelous new school year, here are 8 apps that will boost your…
If there’s one thing that post-secondary students have in common, it’s feeling stressed out. Most of the time, however, our stress can be controlled and managed, and we’re often strung out when we don’t even need to be. Ripe and ready for the back-to-school season, here are some coping mechanisms that are sure to help you out…
The inaugural moment of moving day is here. Leaving home and moving into a residence or apartment can be overwhelming, so if you’re wondering how you’re going to fit all your stuff into your postage stamp-sized new room this fall, fear not. We’re coming to the rescue with a list of what you actually need…
Education after high school can be a scary thing. The transition from high school to post-secondary is huge, and although change is good, it’s often scary. So if you’re starting post-secondary school in the fall, it’s completely normal if you have some (or all) of these fears running through your head. Here are some common freshman…
Languages are a curious thing. Whenever I come across conversations or signs in a foreign language, I always long to discover what they mean. With Chinese symbols, for instance, I consider the characters themselves as puzzles waiting to be decoded. When I watch a video in Swedish and barely understand a thing, I somehow manage…
Nine students. Nine innovations. Nine reasons to regain some faith in humanity. Canada is home to numerous young people who continuously strive to make a difference in the world. From social activism to charity, the good-spirited go-getters of our country have done a lot to pay it forward and use their talents for great things. And we’re…
Many of us adore the prospect of becoming a rich and famous artist, especially when celebrities are constantly in the spotlight and seemingly living their dreams. This is especially true for musicians and actors, but also for many visual artists and authors. My experience lies in the world of music, but it’s not because I…
Let’s just breathe, and say them together. It’s easier that way. “I don’t have nearly enough shirts or pants for the hours they’re working me.” It’s just illogical to give somebody one shirt if you’re going to work them over forty hours a week. “My shirt only slightly smells. It’ll do.” You can’t be expected…
I am a proud Arts and Social Sciences student. I may not be the next Einstein or Stephen Hawking, but I’d rather read up on the War of 1812 than the theory of relativity any day. I know that many of my fellow arts students feel the same way. However, identifying as an arts student…
Grab some snacks, daydream with us, and let your wanderlust run wild. Here are our favourite 8 films on Netflix that will make you want to jump on a plane. Like, right now. 1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013) Break out of your daily routine and explore the world? You’re a man after…
I am not a morning person, and I’m guessing that many of you SLNers share my distaste for sunrises and alarm clocks. That being said—and as much as I hate to admit it—the morning can be the best time to get things done! As collective non-enthusiasts of waking up early, let’s tackle 10 things you can do…
Picture yourself sitting in a lecture hall. You’re listlessly watching PowerPoint slides zoom by, mindlessly copying down sentences exactly as they appear on the screen. An hour and a half goes by like this. When the lecture is over, you’re left thinking, “What just happened?” Panic sets in for a couple of seconds until you decide that you’ll…
Yielding fewer responsibilities, more free time, and actual warm weather, summer is nearly every student’s favourite season. But summer comes and goes; you’ll want to cram as many cool experiences into your break as possible so you’ll have epic stories to tell when your teachers ask about them in the fall. We’ve made a list of some of the…
Since Smartphones became popular, many people have observed that they’ve been separating us rather than uniting us. Since our tech can maintain our attention for extended periods of time, this can be detrimental to our relationships with others, our studying habits, and even our social skills. Like fellow SLN blogger Ann Cheng mentions, phubbing is totally not cool. We all have that one…
On Father’s Day, countless sons and daughters struggle to find a perfect gift for their dads. From watches to barbecues, the possibilities are not only endless, but pretty expensive. Should you buy him a power tool? A fancy shirt? Did he recently misplace his sunglasses (again)? It can be hard to keep track of pops’ wants and needs, but no matter what you choose to…
The sun struggles to rise in the east when a jarring beep-beep-beep splits the air. You bury your head under your pillow and cling to the covers for dear life, trying to drown out both your alarm clock and reality itself: it’s time to get up. Mornings. We’ve all deal with them. There are the…
You often hear professors tell you at the beginning of the semester that students who take notes on their computers do worse than those who take notes by hand. I, however, was always sure that I was the exception. Up until this semester, I was the student that had fifteen tabs open during every class…
We’d like to introduce you to 6 kickass students. They’re students just like you and I who exemplify the notion that with enough determination, passion, and hard work, we can all make a difference. Here are 6 students that are doing big things. Anthony Hope | Surrey, BC An aspiring Canadian diplomat who will be attending the University…
Exams are over. There’s money in your bank account (well, maybe). For the first time since Christmas break, you have a spare second to think about something other than school. If you can get away from the internship you landed this summer for more than a few days, these road trips are sure to make…
It’s really no secret: not everyone is destined to pursue post-secondary studies straight out of high school. Despite the pressure that’s put on students to get their degrees as fast as they can, sometimes it’s just not fitting, practical, or even healthy to rush aboard the university bandwagon. Whether you’re fresh out of high school…
Who doesn’t want to accomplish more every day? I know I do. We all have it in us. But life happens. The Internet happens. Yik Yak happens. Drain Your Phone (For Real) Or don’t charge it when your battery is low. No, I’m not crazy. Your phone is a massive, if not, the biggest time waster.…
Odds are that at some point during the time you’re in university or college you’ll have a roommate. You may end up with someone completely different than you expect, or you could have someone who fits the stereotypical idea of the perfect roommate to a “T” like Ross below. Having a roommate or two is…
It’s that time again. Finals are just around the corner—or currently melting your brain—and you’re scrambling around trying to read that textbook that has a solid layer of dust accumulating on its cover. Maybe you’re on the verge of a mental breakdown. We’ve all been there. Well, I’m here to introduce a quick study break. They’re…
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of traversing the globe. From European adventures and student exchanges in high school, to working overseas in college, to countless family vacations and a recent trip to Southeast Asia. The one thing I can’t help but notice on every trip I go on, is how much I learn. I was…
You just failed a paper and bombed another midterm. Wait, what? The project is due this week? Sometimes school feels like the Tough Mudder and you’re the one that forgot to train. Fear not, because some of the most lionized people throughout history made some pretty colossal blunders along the way. Keep your head up, kid. Vincent…
While moving to a different city for post-secondary can be exciting, it can also be a huge source of anxiety. It’s a big step from a one horse town to a sprawling metropolis. Here’s how I survived life when I first moved to the big city. Don’t Fear Public Transit Moving into a big city…
To some, it’s Spring Break. To others, it’s Reading Week. Whatever you call it, if you’re not going on a cool vacation, finding a good way to spend it can be tricky. Take note: the following activities are not necessarily limited to Spring Break. This may be the case as your Spring Break may be…
Everyone has their war stories to tell from their university days, and these people will probably be part of a few of yours. The Attached One Most people have boundaries. This person doesn’t. You met them through a mutual friend and now they’ve latched on to you. They’ll follow you to your classes and text…
Valentine’s Day has a special ability to make single people feel terrible about themselves. There’s a fabricated pressure we feel to couple up. It’s like the world turns into a gross rom-com for a day, and instead of the leading role, you’re stuck playing the “funny best friend.” But fear not. To defeat this uninvited social…
We wanted to change things up this time. SLNers are on to us with our “interviews” and “trips to the aquarium.” For the reveal of Canada’s Luckiest Student 3 (CLS3), we stepped up our game. And the number of winners, with a handful of runner-up winners. We also took a risk. We announced that the winner…
Parents are the best. They brought us into this world and have cared for us since. So it may be a little hard for them to accept their “pride and joy” going off on their own in this big, scary world. Reading Week is quickly approaching. You want to travel. Your parents aren’t too keen…
Best way to escape studying? One word: Netflix. Best way to escape studying and still feel like you’re still learning? Documentaries. But also these 9 movies. And the students who stood out in them. Will Hunting from Good Will Hunting (1997) “The only feeling of real loss is when you love someone more than you love…
Smartphones. We can’t live without them. On one hand, they can be incredibly useful tools that help you be more productive, stay connected and access information at the touch of a finger. On the other hand, they can be a total time suck from our studies (hello Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook). According to a Baylor University study, the…
Every day in December was like Christmas at SLN. Pretty much every day we received a new Christmas card. And each card was meticulously made featuring pop-ups, oh-so-much glitter, poems, hand paintings, gingerbread and even a card powered by batteries that lit up. You blew us all away. You filled our hearts. Peter may have…
Surviving “the winter woes” is more than staying atop of the frozen ground and the frigid temperatures. It is preparing your mind for constant flurries and a seemingly endless tunnel of grey days. But it’s not all bad. We’re Canadian after all. Here are 4 ways to not just survive winter, but also kind of enjoy…
I woke up to hear people cheering and the ground beneath me shaking. Rubbing my eyes and putting on my glasses, I see trees and planes outside. As we gather our things and make our way off the plane, the heat and humidity hit me hard. I look down and realize that maybe sweats weren’t the smartest thing…
Shopping for students can be difficult. We’re stubborn creatures who can become really comfortable with our surroundings and possessions. That makes it pretty tough to buy us relatively inexpensive gifts. However, not all is lost. There are a few great, inexpensive gifts for all students this holiday season that they’re sure to love. If you missed…
The perfect gift? How about some sleep, for exams to be over and, oh, maybe winning Canada’s Luckiest Student? Otherwise than that, here are five easy gift ideas that work well individually or together. TOMs Throw Blanket ($30) We loved the shoes and shades, and now they have brought us even more ways to buy-one-give-one.…
Let me guess: you’ve asked your friend, significant other, parent, sibling, cousin and dog what kind of presents they’d like, and their responses have been: “I don’t know,” “nothing,” or “woof!” Some are fickle and can be hard to buy for. But your situation isn’t hopeless! After some deep thinking, and maybe a bit of…
ED. Note: This article is meant to be helpful and informative. With lots of discussion as of late of post-secondary institutions “failing sex assault victims” we want to bring some ideas to a very serious subject. One in five women experience some sort of assault on Canadian campuses. That’s a terrible stat. Stay safe, SLNers.…
Deciding what to do after high school is a daunting task that, frankly, many of us just aren’t (or weren’t) ready for. Some decide to take a gap year, while others go straight into the workforce. Many Canadian high school students, though, continue their education, which begs the question: “which post secondary institution is right…
Let’s call the pot black here: winter sucks. Sure there’s fun parts to it—snowboarding, skiing, building snowmen / snow penises, beerbogganing (tobogganing with beer), and obviously presents at X-Mas. But for the most part, winter is the shittiest season. It’s cold, there’s less sun, public transit starts to feel like a SARS quarantine with everyone…
So, you’re keen to travel. You have visions of living the nomadic lifestyle; sporting the travel pack, rocking a killer bandana, and posting hammer Instagram photos that will make your friends insanely jealous. The next big question is where? Our buddies at Geckos Adventures have crafted a quiz to help you find your ultimate adventure. Better still, if…
I remember those car rides home from school with my friends, discussing who in our grade would make the best valedictorian. The funny thing is, I had never intended on applying. I was scarred from my runner up finish in the eighth grade to be valedictorian. If I couldn’t win then, how could I win…
It appears that students have developed a reputation. Now, everyone already knows that we are pleasant, driven, leaders-of-tomorrow who want nothing more than to soak up everything that the education system has to offer us, right? Apparently Hollywood didn’t get the memo. The film industry generally portrays students as confused, hormone ridden, tortured adolescents who…
You’ve just spent the last twelve years of your life sitting in uncomfortable chairs and listening to a teacher ramble on for ten months out of every year. Now it’s your graduation. You’re free! What’s the first thing you do? Go right into post-secondary and sit in another uncomfortable chair? Not exactly what I had…
We’ve all had our fair share of regrettable moments in life. Like that time you stressed out for a major test and found it was only a quiz. Or that time you fell for someone even though your gut was screaming not to. In retrospect, we realize what we could have done to improve the…
Ah, food. The one thing we can all agree that we love. Yet, so few of us students actually know how to cook. Yes, I’m sure you know how to unfreeze a frozen pizza and make instant noodles, but I’m talking about real cooking. You know, made from scratch. Like mom and dad. But even if…
When I get anxious about the future, I start to clean. When I was trying to choose my major in university, my sock drawer mysteriously became super organized. But you know what’s slightly more productive than sock-sorting? Going to the Student Life Expo this weekend at the Toronto Convention Centre. Because we like you, here’s a…
Welcome to the second installment of Expectations Vs. Reality! Now that my Frosh week is over and the shouting has calmed down a little, I can now tell you what actually happened. But first, make sure you read the first article for, you know, context. My Overall Prediction “After a day or two of accidentally elbowing…
Like its prizes, Canada’s Luckiest Student gets better every year. Coincidence? Please. But really, it’s because students like yourself spread the good word and keep us on our toes. Want to help us take it to the next level? Read on, dear SLNer. Write With Us We’ve launched a blog (as you can see, because…
Please read in the voice of the narrator from The Wonder Years. I was 18 when I moved out of my parents’ house and into residence at the University of Toronto. Somehow, it didn’t fully occur to me that I was actually moving out of my parents’ house until it was too late, and I…
The classic jean: it’s timeless. It’s effortless. It’s popular. It’s a staple. With back-to-school fashion, you probably have seen your fair share of jeans and their variations. Some people rock the boot cut, some rock the skinny. Some prefer the basic blue denim while others prefer bold prints and colours. No matter how you wear…
With the Toronto Mayoral election generating buzz internationally (thanks Rob Ford) we reached out to our Toronto SLNers to find out their opinions on the upcoming vote. According to our poll most students said they’re voting for Olivia Chow with Rob Ford and John Tory in second and third places respectively. However, in true Ford fashion…
Long distance relationships are the worst. They’re stressful, lonely, and hugging a computer screen just isn’t as good as the real thing. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth the risk. At 21, I moved 671.84 km away from Niagara Falls to Montreal. I knew no one, was starting at a new school, and the…
I just went to Riot Fest. The name alone tells you that you’re going to have a blast. Ah, the lineup, way too good to comprehend: The Cure, Metric, The National, Tokyo Police Club, The Flaming Lips, Death Cab for Cutie, Dropkick Murphy’s, Rise Against, Billy Talent, Social Distortion, Death From Above 1979, and on and…
As students, we love our distractions. I have noticed there are quite a few things that we students do to kill time instead of doing what they should be doing: school work. I’m not here to judge, and am definitely guilty of some of these myself, but when you should be paying attention in class or studying you…
Right now, I’m sitting in a coffee shop in downtown Vancouver. I’m here because I’m about to spend a year at film school. It’s all thanks to a story about a walrus. There was, however, a time before the walrus, when my career goal wasn’t so clear. It’s something many of you can relate to.…
Welcome to the first installment of Expectations Vs. Reality, the series in which I blog about my anticipations for upcoming products and events, and then again after experiencing it. First up: Frosh Week. What’s Being Advertised Paint party Talent competition Hypnotist Survivor Challenge (I’m intrigued) Community service Medieval Times Tri-campus cheer-off Parade Night club Musical performance…
Your schedule is packed. Morning classes turn into afternoons at the library, you rush to punch the clock at your part time job and then grab beer on the way home before meeting your friends. There is no denying your university years are busy, but as a wise man once said: “it is important to…
The countdown is on. The dog days of summer are slipping between our fingers. Your summer job is coming to an end. Your parents are rejoicing. School is (almost) back. Remove that nervous pit in your stomach with preparedness. Wash away those clammy hands with confidence. Tackle the first day of school like tryouts for…
Your alarm goes off at 7 a.m. As you try to fight the internal battle of getting up versus hitting the snooze button, your eyes dart to your open closet. You ask yourself the ever daunting question, “What am I going to wear today?” We all have those days where we run out of outfit…
With school just around the bend, many of you will be heading back to dorm life. Decorating and personalizing a dorm room can be tricky with all the rules in place, not to mention the cost of decor. Tricky, but not impossible. Need some inspiration? Well, you’ve come to the right place, SLNer. Here, I…
I still remember how the sunlight hit my kitchen table that afternoon. It was a calming yellow light that broke through the sunroom and struck the table on a slant. Splayed out in front me were seven university acceptance packages. My mom was leaning over my shoulder perusing the letters with me. There were a bunch for English literature and…
7 Convos You’re Guaranteed to Overhear in Post-Secondary “I’m so over this class.” “I can’t wait until we’re done.” “How did you do on your essay?” We’re all guilty of these statements. Truthfully, it’s hard to avoid them. School is like work; college and university students attend multiple classes for several hours a week, so…
A couple of years ago my best friend was moving from Ontario to British Columbia and I had the great idea for us to road trip it out there together. One last adventure before we were living 3,716 kilometres apart. Turns out life got in the way and after two weeks of concerned parents, booked…
For any first year heading to college or university this fall, get your party hat ready. There are parties for frosh, for joining fraternities, and then there’s those joyous occasions known as house parties. The key to all parties is to party safely. Many people assume that partying “safely” means “have no fun at all.” Whoever…
You’ve probably heard before that fashion isn’t practical, but I’m here to tell you that you can have the best of both worlds. Just nod your head with me. You can look good AND be comfy. Let’s take a look at the best tips when shopping for back-to-school fall fashion. You’ll be strutting your stuff…
In our teenage years, many of us take joy in reflecting upon the simplicities of our childhoods; swings, sweets, and McDonalds PlayPlaces are few of many such simplicities. That’s not to say that we can’t enjoy all of that stuff now (especially the PlayPlaces, of course), but when we were toddlers and young teenagers, those…
Here’s the scene. For one month, your world is turned upside down in an attempt to write a 1,500 word report on a novel you didn’t really understand. Now, one month later, the reports are marked. Cheers and groans echo all around you. You smile, but anxiety burns within you. Suddenly, your teacher appears at your desk.…
Meet People. It’s your first year. It’s also hundreds of other students’ first years. So meet them. Why? Because it only gets harder. It’s tough going through first-year of post-secondary in a new environment without buddies you can lean on throughout the journey. It may be scary, intimidating, or out of your comfort zone, but…
School is around the corner. No need for bloodcurdling screams; Canada’s Luckiest Student 3 is also around the corner. But as school is still coming, here are seven tips to survive your first day back. Abide them all! 1. Hide a security blanket in your backpack. If it worked in kindergarten, it’ll work now. Besides, everybody will…
As I mentioned in my previous article on frosh week, I’m pretty stoked for frosh week. Stoked being the operative word. That being said, I can only assume that certain aspects of frosh week will be challenging. Whether it’s blistering climates, headache-inducing noise, or an untouchable amount of juvenile delinquency, there are plenty of things that we all…
Throughout my post-secondary studies, I have been a working student. I have been working full-time hours and have had a full-time student course load; it’s been pretty tough. And at the same time, my wife and I have also been blessed with an adorable little boy, who is a lot of work but is super cute.…
Canada has some great colleges and universities. In fact, Canada is ranked third best in the world for its post-secondary institutions. Booyah! We’re a nation of smartypants. In honour of us being wicked-smart, we put together a list of some of our favourite celebrities and the Canadian post-secondary schools they attended. In no specific order,…
I’d like to share an email I wrote to my parents a couple of years ago as I was completing teachers’ college in Australia. (The class I refer to was about how to teach science. To children.) In it, I accuse them of misinforming me about certain cosmological concepts when I was growing up. I…
Frosh week is both exhilarating and intimidating. It goes under many aliases—Orientation, O-Week, and even 101 Week (if you’re University of Ottawa). Typically held on the first week of school, frosh week is a time of grand celebration, used by universities everywhere to make the fresh-faced undergrads of the world feel more comfortable with their impending…
