1210212.us16.myftpupload.com Managed WordPress Site

Author: NEADS

  • NEADS Events of the Month: August 2015

    Organizer: Reclaiming Our Bodies and Minds: Inter-Campus Disability Services Conference

    Title: Reclaiming Our Bodies and Minds: Inter-Campus Disability Services Conference

    Category: Education

    Location: Toronto, Ontario

    Date:   August 5, 2015

    Web site: https://reclaimingourbodiesandminds.wordpress.com/

    Description: The first general programming meeting for Reclaiming Our Bodies and Minds, and inter-campus disability conference in Toronto.

    ROBAM 2016 First Planning Meeting

    August 5 2015

    3:00 P.M.

    Room 310, Student Campus Centre

    The meeting will be in a brightly lit, wheelchair accessible room on the third floor of the building. There will be seats and free water available. No loud startling sounds or sights are expected. There is transit and parking nearby. We ask that all participants help make the room a safer, sober, scent-free disability, mad, and Deaf-positive space. Should you have any accommodations, such as live-captioning that you will need in order to attendance please contact us as soon as you can.

    Conference links:

    Website: https://reclaimingourbodiesandminds.wordpress.com/

    2015 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/766223156804254/

    Email: ryeaccess@rsuonline.ca and reclaimconference@gmail.com

     

     

    Organizer: Richmond Centre for Disability

    Title: Richmond Centre for Disability – Technology Fair Through A Disability Lens

    Category: Accessibility

    Location: Richmond, British Columbia

    Date: August 15, 2015

    Telephone: 604-232-2404

    Web site: http://www.rcdrichmond.org/NewsAndEvents/TechFair/TechFair_Att_Reg.php

    Description: Richmond Centre for Disability (RCD) 30th Anniversary Celebrations – August Event

    As part of the year-long celebrations of the RCD’s 30 Anniversary, we are hosting a special August event – Technology Fair through a Disability Lens. The purpose of this inaugural event is to enable and facilitate “information sharing on modern technology that helps to build an easier and better life for everyone, including people with disabilities and diverse abilities”.

    When: August 15, 2015, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Where: Westminster Room

    Executive Airport Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre

    (7311 Westminster Hwy. Richmond, BC)

    FREE ADMISSION!

    The Technology Fair is open to everyone, aiming to empower people through technology. You can network, explore and be inspired. The fair features technologies that are for everyday usage.

    DOOR PRIZES!

    We have door prizes for the first 60 people who pre-register.

     To pre-register:

    – On-line registration (see below); or

    – Email your name, email and phone number to techfair2015@rcdrichmond.org

    Register NOW! Your door prize is waiting for you at the Technology Fair.

    HIGHLIGHTS!

    – Exhibitor displays & demonstrations

    – Technology presentations

    – Refreshment

    – Reduced parking fee ($3.5 event parking)

    Enquiries: Email techfair2015@rcdrichmond.org or call Viet at 604-232-2404

     

     

    Organizer: Workplace Essential Skills Partnership (WESP)

    Title: August Fast Track Workshop

    Category: Employment

    Location: Toronto, Ontario

    Date: August 17, 2015 – August 21, 2015

    Telephone: 416 260 3060 x234

    E-mail: skhan@ccrw.org

    Web site: http://www.ccrw.org/wesp

    Description: Workplace Essential Skills Partnership (WESP): Toronto’s premier pre-employment program for persons with disabilities operating under the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) – a national not for profit organization dedicated to providing equitable and meaningful employment for persons with disabilities. For more details about registration, please see our event page at http://wespworkshop.eventbrite.ca or visit our home page at www.ccrw.org/wesp

     

  • How to Find Scholarships for Canadian Students

    How to Find Scholarships for Canadian Students

    Every year across Canada there are hundreds of thousands of dollars available to college and university students in the form of scholarships. However, even knowing there are so many options available, it can still be hard to find these scholarships, learn their requirements, and submit applications.

    The term “scholarship” typically encompasses any money awarded to a student that will help them pay for their tuition and other school costs. Application procedures and requirements vary widely, but usually depend at least partly on your grades and other academic achievements. Scholarships are often divided into different categories, and awarded based on different criteria such as program of study, school of study, your grades, or your extracurricular activities. Depending on the application, you may need to provide written essays or letters, and a copy of your school transcript.

    There are also scholarships that will automatically consider students without requiring an application; these are usually offered by colleges and universities, and will be offered to students meeting the requirements upon being accepted into the school. Most commonly, these entrance scholarships are offered to prospective students who apply with a certain grade average.

    For international students planning to study in Canada, there are government-funded International Student Scholarships available, with various fulfillment requirements. These can be accessed at www.scholarships-bourses.gc.ca.

    There are advantages to searching online through websites, as well as various internet search engines, such as helping you access scholarship opportunities from across the country. However, it is also a good idea to go the low-tech way and talk to people in person!

    Speak to your school’s career and guidance counsellor, as they can direct you to local scholarship opportunities offered by your school itself, and by the community at large. Businesses, non-profit organizations, and professional organizations often offer student scholarships, especially for students pursuing studies in a field related to their own industry. Don’t forget to ask your parents and family members if their workplace offers any scholarships, as these are often available only to children of employees, and so may not be listed publicly elsewhere. Other places to inquire include local community organizations, cultural groups, churches, military veterans associations, banks, and skilled trade unions.

    Once you have a list of scholarships you qualify for, start applying to as many as you can, as early as you can. This will increase your chances of getting some of these awards. Good luck!

     

  • Women in the Trades, Statistics and Perceptions

    Women in the Trades, Statistics and Perceptions

    When you picture a construction worker, plumber, electrician or pipefitter, what image comes to mind? Most people imagine a burly, middle-aged man, wearing overalls, covered in dirt or grease. Trades jobs have been predominantly dominated by men throughout history. Across Canada women are still under-represented in the industry.

    The Status of Women in Canada factsheet (http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/initiatives/wesp-sepf/fs-fi/es-se-eng.html) stated, “In 2014 women represented 47.3 % of the labour force. Women aged 15 years and over were most likely to be employed in sales and service occupations (27.1%).” It also states, “Women continue to have low representation in the skilled trades and other traditionally male dominated professions. For example in 2012, women held just 11.8% of the construction jobs, 19% of forestry, fishing, mining, oil and gas jobs, and 30.5% of agriculture jobs. In 2011 women accounted for only 2% of carpentry apprentices, 1.9% of plumbing apprentices and 1.5% of heavy equipment apprentices.”

    So why are there so few women working in the trades? An article on the website TalentEgg.com (http://talentegg.ca/incubator/2012/03/12/women-working-skilled-trades/) suggests “even in this day and age, women can be discriminated against in the skilled trades workforce. Women are usually in the top 10-15% in their class, but they are almost always among the last 10% to get hired.”

    The Government of Canada Skilled Trades website points out another reason there are fewer people in general working in the industry. It says there is a “negative perception towards skilled trades among youth and their influences, with many believing that these jobs are low paying, involve physical work, are dirty, and are less academically challenging.”

    Though this may be a common perception, it isn’t entirely true. The work may be more physical than an office job, but it can also be rewarding. Imagine being able to drive by a building, knowing you helped construct it. Stats Canada stated on average trades employees make $22.36/hour. Canadianbusiness.com stated in 2014, Electrician and Telecommunications Contractor held the number 10 spot on the Top 10 Best Jobs in Canada, with a median salary of $72,800/ year.

    Many skilled trades’ workers are hard-working individuals. Although a lot of people feel the trades are for students who are less academically inclined; this is also another myth. Trades workers need to have a good academic foundation with knowledge in math, literacy, problem solving and analytical skills. Depending on the type of trade you pursue you could be deciphering complex blueprints on a construction site, operating technical equipment, or installing intricate plumbing systems at an industrial site. There are a number of apprenticeship programs geared toward women. You can search online to see what’s available in your area. In Ontario there is a website with information on Women in Skilled Trades and Information Technology: http://www.grants.gov.on.ca/GrantsPortal/en/OntarioGrants/GrantOpportunities/OSAPQA005168.

    Careersintrades.ca (http://www.careersintrades.ca/) has information on how to get started.

    If you think you might be interested in pursuing a career in a skilled trade, it’s always a good idea to talk to someone who currently works in the field. They will be able to explain the ins and outs of the job, tell you what is involved, and what it is really like to work on a job site. They can also give you an idea of job availability and pay. You could also do a work study or internship, which will provide you with the hands on training and experience. This will be a great way to see if you like the job and the work environment, and to decide if the trades are the right field for you.

     

  • De-Myth-tifying Skilled Trades

    De-Myth-tifying Skilled Trades

    You hear it all the time. To get a good job, you need to get a degree from a University and that those who cannot get into a school have to fall back on trades like plumbing or carpentry. A university degree will be useful to you for certain careers, but the myths surrounding the skilled trades should be examined when deciding on which path to take after high school. Here are five common myths, and the realities behind them:

    Myth: Skilled trades are for the uneducated, or unintelligent.

    Reality: Skilled tradespeople apprentice for years and have numerous certifications under their belts. While it’s true that many trades don’t require a university or college degree, the certification process for each trade can take years. Often, the education is paid for by an employer, and while studying apprentices are paid for the work they do, leaving very little student debt to carry into later life.

    Myth: Women can’t do skilled trades.

    Reality: Many skilled trades don’t rely on sheer physical strength; what they do require is dexterity, stamina, good hand-eye coordination and balance, all traits women possess. Technology has changed the tenor of this industry also, allowing many tradespeople to work with computers and advanced electronics.

    Myth: Going into a skilled trade makes you a failure. University is the only path for success.

    Reality: A degree from a University is a prerequisite for careers like medicine, law, or education. However, tradespeople have so many opportunities for success. These include entrepreneurships, mastering the trade, and generally being in high demand. Anyone who has ever needed a plumber in the middle of the night can attest to this. These days the definition of success is changing. A degree will not always guarantee job security, or even work within your chosen field. Education is important, but the way we attain it has become less elite over time.

    Myth: Skilled trades offer very few choices in careers.

    Reality: The trades are always in demand, in every sector of business. A plumber could be called upon to work in a basement, a movie set, or even a cruise ship! The sky is the limit when you think outside the box. In addition, many skilled tradespeople own their own business, becoming an entrepreneur. This opens a lot of doors for different opportunities, but is also a lot of work. Being independent is something a lot of trade-oriented people take pride in.

    Myth: Skilled trades do not pay very well.

    Reality: The average salary for a plumber in Ontario is $26/hour (2009 Labour Force Survey). Considering minimum wage is $11/hour this is more than double! In addition, as a plumber gains certifications and experience, her wage will only increase. Also in economic downturns, skilled trades are always in demand, so layoffs are very rare. People always need toilets fixed! Many skilled trades are also unionized, providing another layer of job security. However, some industries like welding pipeline and oil-related trades have economic downturn periods. The oil industry goes up and down and tradesmen and women may be laid off for months at a time. Some don’t mind taking the risk of entering this particular field for it pays well once you have received all your certifications ( 60-120,000 per year).

    Hopefully this shows that thinking of a skilled trade as less valuable than a university degree, is flawed. Take a look at the Jobs People Do Trade listing and see if anything strikes you as a possible path for a career. Talk to your Guidance Counsellor for more info!

  • Career Profile: Motorcycle Mechanic

    Career Profile: Motorcycle Mechanic

    If you go out to the street where you live, you are likely to see several different methods of transportation. Cars and bicycles are two popular choices, but many people prefer to ride something that is halfway in between, like a motorcycle. Have you ever heard of a job called a small engine mechanic? People sometimes refer to motorcycle mechanics by that term because most other mechanics work with much larger machines, such as cars or airplanes.

    Becoming a motorcycle mechanic involves putting motorcycles together, maintaining and repairing them, and sometimes restoring old machines. Some mechanics might also work with other small vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Anything other than bicycles that has controls in the handlebars can be part of a motorcycle mechanic’s work.

    Becoming a motorcycle mechanic takes good physical coordination, a good grasp of details, and the ability to handle small objects. The job is not suitable for people who tend to be clumsy and to drop things, although practice in working with motorcycle parts can help. You can already start to train yourself by taking your bicycle apart and putting it back together, or possibly by working on an old engine that is no longer being used. That way, you can learn about how machines work as early as possible.

    Once you finish high school, you can start training to become an official motorcycle mechanic. Training programs are available at several different career colleges in Canada, and some schools also offer distance education programs that allow students to complete their courses at home. Some employers might also require mechanics to complete an apprenticeship program in which they work together with experienced people who can show them what to do; this is highly recommended.

    After the training period is over, new mechanics can find work on their own as freelancers or get jobs with repair businesses. In many parts of Canada, the work tends to be seasonal because of the cold winter weather, but there is likely to be at least some work throughout the year. If you want to be a motorcycle mechanic, it is a good idea to find another type of machine to fix during the coldest months of the year.

    Salaries for motorcycle mechanics can vary, depending on where and how much they work. The average hourly wage in Canada is almost $21 per hour, and most mechanics earn between $30,000 and $65,000 per year. Knowing about many different types of motorcycles can help, since then the mechanic can work on machines that were made both in North America and in other parts of the world.

    If you like motorcycles and working with machinery, this might be the right career for you!

    Bibliography:

    Alberta Learning Information Service.” Occupational Profile Motorcycle Mechanic.”

    http://occinfo.alis.alberta.ca/occinfopreview/info/browse-occupations/occupation-profile.html?id=71003095.

    Career Opportunities.net. “Motorcycle Mechanic.”

    http://www.career-opportunities.net/career_profiles/motorcycle_mechanic.

    Enginecycle.ca. “Motorcycle Technical Training Schools—Canada.” http://www.enginecycle.ca/motorcycle-technical-training-schools-directory.

    Payscale.com. “Motorcycle Mechanic Salary.” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Motorcycle_Mechanic/Hourly_Rate

    PCDI.com “Motorcycle Mechanics.”

    https://www.pcdi.ca/career-programs/motorcycle-mechanics/job-outlook/.

     

  • Career Profile: Automotive Painter

    Career Profile: Automotive Painter

    Cars and trucks come in all kinds of colours; from plain white or black to blue, yellow, and green. When the vehicles come from the factory, the paint is bright and unscratched. Once people start driving the vehicles, however, the paint may get scratched or chipped due to accidents, weather damage or age. Automotive painters are the people who can help make cars look nice and protect them from rust and other damage.

    Paint on cars makes them look nice, but it also helps protect them from the kind of damage that comes from rain and the salt that keeps drivers from sliding on icy roads. It also helps people to identify their own cars quickly and easily. Can you imagine how difficult it would be to find your car if every vehicle were painted the same colour?

    The first step in the process is to repair any damage like dents or broken parts. Automotive painters sometimes do the repairs themselves, but if they lack the knowledge or facilities for this type of work, the might let others finish that part before they begin their work.

    Since vehicles come in many different colours, painters have to try to match the exact shade of red or blue or green that the original paint contained. They mix different kinds of paint and add special protective chemicals like sealers.

    Next, workers might have to sand around the area that needs paint or use chemicals and power tools to remove any loose chips or anything else that could make the surface uneven. They put protective tape around the area to keep other parts of the vehicle clean and then start to paint.

    Painters might use many different tools for this part of the work, including spray painters and small brushes. Then, painters blend the newly done colour in with the old so that it all looks the same and then, after the paint is dry, they use a special tool to buff the area so that it shines.

    Being an automotive painter usually involves a combination of formal training and on-the-job experience. It can be creative work, especially in trying to match paint colours to each other, but it also involves some knowledge of mathematics for calculating the amounts of each paint to use. It sometimes includes some accounting or bookkeeping, especially in small repair shops with few employees. There is also specialty automotive painting where people request a specific design unique to their personality; this requires talent and knowledge in art. Auto art is like getting a tattoo but on your car instead of your skin. Average wages for automotive painters in Canada are about $21 per hour, and annual salaries are between about $33,000 and $66,000.

    A career as an automotive painter can be rewarding and interesting job for anyone who loves to work with vehicles; does that describe you? If so, check it out!

    Bibliography:

    Careers.org. “Occupation Profile for Automotive Body and Related Repairers.” http://www.careers.org/occupations/49-3021.00/automotive-body-and-related-repairers

    Industry Training Authority. “Automotive Painter (Automotive Refinishing Technician).”

    http://www.itabc.ca/program/automotive-painter-automotive-refinishing-technician.

    Monster.ca “Automotive Paint Technician.”

    http://my.monster.ca/job-profiles/Automotive-Paint-Technician.aspx.

    Payscale.com. “Painter Automotive Salary (Canada).” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Painter_Automotive/Hourly_Rate.

  • Career Profile: Water Well Driller

    Career Profile: Water Well Driller

    Everyone needs water for all kinds of purposes, such as drinking, taking showers, washing clothes, and watering plants. People who live in cities usually get their water from a central system that takes water from a lake or river, purifies it, and sends it through pipes to homes and businesses,. When those systems are unavailable or not working properly, people get their water from wells; that’s when water well drillers can help.

    The first step in drilling a well is to look for the best place to find water. Some areas might be too rocky, or the soil might not be right, or the water level might be too low. Water well drillers need to know the most likely places to find enough clean water and to do tests to find out whether or not the location is good for a well.

    After finding the right spot, water well drillers use large machines to drill the well and install pumps and other equipment to help draw the water out of the well. This step can take a lot of knowledge and possibly some physical strength if the drillers have to move heavy equipment around. In remote areas where many machines are unavailable, the drillers might even need the strength to do some digging with hand-held tools like shovels.

    No special education is necessary to become a water well driller, although it helps to know about soil, rock, and other environmental factors. Most people in this trade learn on the job through apprenticeships, working together with experienced drillers.

    However, it can be helpful to take courses in equipment maintenance or environmental topics to gain a better understanding of the job. Some knowledge of accounting is also useful for estimating costs for customers and keeping track of expenses. Many water well drillers are self-employed, and they might need to learn the basics of running a small business and of supervising other people on the job.

    The way that water well drillers work changes with new technology and different environmental conditions, but the basic need for water means that there will always be a need for this trade. However, if people in this field can transfer their skills to a similar field, such as oil and gas extraction, that will help them to find work to keep them going throughout the year.

    Salaries for water well drillers can be high, especially after they gain some experience. Generally, people in this trade start at about $20 per hour and they can get to $45 per hour with experience. Many drillers work fairly long hours each week, and they have to be prepared for all temperatures but also be willing to cancel work in case of bad weather.

    If you decide to become a water well driller, you will be able to earn a good living by helping people find something that can sustain an entire community.

    Bibliography:

    Alberta Learning Information Service. “Water Well Driller.”

    http://occinfo.alis.alberta.ca/occinfopreview/info/browse-occupations/occupation-profile.html?id=71003107.

    Careers.org. “Career Occupational Profile for: Water Well Driller.”

    http://www.careers.org/occupations/26025/water-well-driller

    Industry Training Authority. “Water Well Driller.” http://www.itabc.ca/program/water-well-driller.

    Payscale.com. “Driller Salary (Canada).”

    http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Driller/Hourly_Rate.

  • Job Shadowing for a Day with a Skilled Trade

    Job Shadowing for a Day with a Skilled Trade

    So, you are getting close to the end of your schooling, and you have decided to go into one of the skilled trades for your career. You may even already have an idea of what trade industry you want to work in – that’s great!

    Whether you have already decided on a career path, or are still looking at options, a great way to learn more about what it’s like working in a specific trade is to do a job shadow with someone in that field.

    Job shadowing is when you accompany a professional during their workday, to see what sort of tasks and activities their job involves. When you are learning about a prospective career, internet research, books, and other resources are very useful, but there are always some aspects of a job that need to be seen and experienced in person to give you a real sense of what it would be like to work in a specific trade.

    Spending time with a working professional makes it easier to get accurate, first-hand information about the job responsibilities, and the industry itself. You also have the opportunity to ask questions one-on-one with someone who is an expert in the field. As well, even though you will be shadowing with one person, you will have the opportunity to meet other people working other positions and in other departments. This is a great chance to network and make connections in the company and trade industry, which can be valuable contacts later on when you are looking for an internship or other career opportunity. Seeing how the employees of a company interact will also give you an idea of the company culture and dynamics.

    Not sure how to find and arrange a job shadow opportunity? Your first option is to check with your school guidance counsellor or careers teacher, as they likely have a good idea of people or companies suitable to hosting a student job shadow. You can also ask someone you know personally, such as a family member or family acquaintance, if they or someone they work with would be interested in taking a job shadow with them for a day. You may also feel more comfortable spending the time with someone you are familiar with, and therefore be more relaxed and willing to ask questions or participate in work activities.

    Lastly, you can approach someone at the company directly, such as through their human resources department, to inquire if they have done job shadowing opportunities before. Many companies in the trades also have co-op and youth apprenticeship programs, and so are likely to have someone willing to take you as a job shadow- don’t be afraid to ask!

    Most importantly, when you are out on your job shadow, remember to be enthusiastic and interested. Whomever you shadow with, they are willing to spend valuable time in order to share their job, their experience, and their interest with you, so be sure to return the favour. Have fun shadowing!

  • Scholarships: It’s Not Just About Academics Anymore

    Scholarships: It’s Not Just About Academics Anymore

    Today’s tuition fees are higher than ever. Many students and parents alike scramble for ways to fund college and/or university education. While student loans are available throughout the country, the debt amount that students have to face after graduation is staggering. According to the Canadian Press, the current national average for student debt is $22,300.

    For this reason, if you are an aspiring college and/or university student, it is worthwhile to look into other resources as well, in order to avoid facing such enormous debt upon your graduation. One of the most popular ways to do that is to acquire scholarships. While it is very rare that scholarships will fund your entire school degree, they serve as a big help. In some cases, with a scholarship, you will only have to borrow the minimum amount of college/university loan, avoiding large debt in return.

    In days past, however, scholarships were mostly based on one’s academic performance. These days, there are a variety of ways to obtain a scholarship, and one doesn’t necessarily have to have straight As. This is definitely good news for those who excel in one particular subject but struggle with other subjects as everyone has their own learning abilities.

    For instance, a student who excels in the Arts may not always be good in Math or Science, while a student who has a flair for words may not be as learned in Physics or Algebra. With this scholarship awarding system in place, everyone who needs financial help for their education has a number of chances to get what they need.

    A look at other ways to earn scholarships:

    Essay Writing Contests

    Are you a wordsmith? If you are, try your hand at essay writing contests with organizations like the Fraser Institute that offer scholarships as the top prize, or at least cash prize that you can use for your schooling.

     Arts

     Those who excel in the Arts can look into scholarships and bursaries specifically for studying art-related courses and majors. For instance, the Arts Access Fund offers scholarships in visual art, drama, music, dance, and filmmaking.

    Company-Sponsored Scholarships

    Ask your parents if their respective employers offer scholarships to employees with college- or university-bound kids. Some well-known companies like Canadian Tire, Coca-Cola Canada, and PepsiCo Beverages Canada do offer help for employees who are sending kids off to college or university.

    Non-Profit Organizations

     There are tons of charities in Canada, and once in a while, some of them would offer deserving students a shot at winning a scholarship. Use your research skills and you will find some non-profit organizations which hold a fundraising event or campaign that will benefit students in need like you.

    Community Centers

     Some community centers may have partnerships with other organizations or sometimes the educational institutions themselves and offer scholarships for students in need. It doesn’t hurt to ask your community centre about this.

    Now that you know about these options, good luck in your search!

     SOURCES:

     http://www.artsaccessfund.org/site/

     http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/top-employers/scholarships-for-kids-matter-to-employees/article5432488/

     http://www.afpnet.org/Audiences/MemberNewsDetail.cfm?ItemNumber=17594

     http://www.studentscholarships.org/scholarship/8865/fraser_institute_student_essay_contest_scholarship.php

     http://www.canadian-universities.net/Scholarships/Visual-Arts.html

    http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/n-b-student-alliance-urges-action-to-address-level-of-student-debt-1.2470177/

    http://www.scholarshipscanada.com/News/9/2973/It-s-Not-Just-About-Grades-Non-Academic-Awards/

    http://www.scholarshipscanada.com/News/ArticleProfile.aspx?SectionID=9&ID=1420

  • Are You the Subject of a Nasty Gossip? How to Turn Things Around

    Are You the Subject of a Nasty Gossip? How to Turn Things Around

    Today, gossiping can be considered a national pastime. There are several reasons why people gossip. One is that people who engage in gossip feel privileged. Imagine seeing your not-so-favorite teacher in the middle of the road with a flat tire, cursing like a sailor. You can’t wait to share this with those who feel the same way about that teacher. It’s like you have the inside scoop and you’re telling everyone that this not-so-favorite teacher is not prim and proper after all.

    Another reason why people spread gossip is so they can feel better about themselves. Just picture getting into an exclusive movie premiere and you see a girl you don’t really like waiting desperately at the door to get in. You may feel it is not enough to see her like that—you want your friends to know you saw her in that situation, and you will probably even make something up, like she was being hysterical and bawling like a baby.

    However, what happens when you become the subject of a hurtful gossip? You’ll probably realize then, that gossip has an ugly side. Here are three ways to turn things around when the shoe is on the other foot:

    1) Find people who have your back. Don’t wallow in self-pity. Instead, talk to family, friends, and classmates who know the real you. Don’t hold anything back. Tell them that you are hurt by the rumor, and they will most likely provide you a shoulder to cry on. Eventually, with the right amount of support, you will find the strength to move forward.

    2) Confront the person who is spreading the rumor. If you have a clear idea of who is spreading gossip about you, talk to that person in a calm manner. Don’t flare up since this reaction may be something that he or she is waiting for. Instead, try to figure out why they are doing what they are doing and explain your side of the story. It could have been a simple case of miscommunication or misunderstanding.

    3) Let it die a natural death. If the gossip isn’t going away even after you have talked to the person who is spreading it, it would probably be best to ignore it and move on. At times, silence is the best defense. However, it is a different story when you feel you are being bullied; report the person to school authorities ASAP. Eventually, gossip that doesn’t elicit a reaction will die a natural death. What you can do for the meantime is to avoid gossiping yourself and lead by example. Remember to THINK when you feel the urge to gossip about other people. Is the story Thoughtful, Honest, Intelligent, Necessary, and Kind? If it is not any of these things, then stop.

    SOURCES:

    http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-science-of-gossip/

    http://www.2knowmyself.com/How_to_deal_with_people_who_gossip_about_you

    http://www.wsj.com/articles/what-to-do-when-you-are-the-subject-of-office-gossip-1412701581

    http://inspire99.com/10-deeper-ways-to-deal-with-a-rumor-gossip/

    http://www.youngandraw.com/how-to-deal-with-negative-people-gossip-in-a-positive-way/

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200810/the-8-laws-rumor-spread