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  • Embracing the Holidays during Stressful Times

    Embracing the Holidays during Stressful Times

    Going into the holidays with the stress of tests, assignments, and essays can be pretty overwhelming.

    It’s not just that there are tons of assignments coming up but the fact that the holidays come with added stress. It’s no secret that many students worry about getting enough money for presents, needing to travel to various locations for family gatherings, and having to work part-time in addition to school. For many, the holidays can be an added stress.

    But it’s important to remember that the holidays can also be fun and gathering with friends and family is actually a really great way to release some stress.

    There are some things you can do to reduce the cost of holiday gifts if you’ve been stressing about the perfect gift to get someone or scrounging up enough money for all the people you wanted to grab something for. But, the main point of the holidays is to spend time with someone special and important to you. A great way to embrace company and the holiday spirit without getting too stressed up about it is to host a potluck. You can invite some friends over and make some food and snacks for each other to just relax and enjoy the company. There’s also the added possibility of hosting Secret Santa so you and your friends can set a spending limit with the added joy of who bought a gift for whom.

    There are a lot of things to do around your city as well that are low on cost but great ways to blow off some steam. You can hunt around on the internet to see local events happening in your city such as a Christmas market, ice skating, a nice hike through the park to watch the snow and enjoy scenery, or watching the lighting of Christmas trees. Doing some research into the fun things around town is bound to lift your spirits and take your mind off of things for a while also enjoying the holidays.

    One of the best things you can do to reduce stress is also to set a schedule for any schoolwork. Be sure to make a schedule and stick to it so you can not only finish your assignments on time but also give yourself the opportunity to relax knowing that you got some work done early and can spend more time with friends and family.

    It’s important to remember that the holidays can be stressful but there are ways to embrace the time off from school. Just be sure to stick to your schedule to get your work done and also be sure to make the time for your friends and family. Remember that those around you aren’t expecting fancy presents or for you to spend half a paycheque on them. The holidays are all about spending time together and giving yourself some down time from the craziness of school.

    Take some time for yourself but remember to take some time for others as well. That’s what the holidays are all about.

  • Christmas Crafts for You and Everyone You Know!

    Christmas Crafts for You and Everyone You Know!

    Well, it’s official: Holiday time is just around the corner. With so much to look forward to, it’s perfectly normal to ring in the holidays with some holiday crafts! Did you know there are hundreds of inexpensive, simple things you can create with your family or friends? If you were wondering what to do this year, we’ve got a few ideas for you.

    1. Handprint Santa

    This adorable craft from The Best Ideas for Kids only requires six ingredients, none of which are dangerous to use. With a bit of cotton, felt, googly eyes and glue, you can make Santa’s face using only your handprint.

    All you have to do is trace your hand, cut it out, and decorate it to look like jolly ol’ Saint Nick. You can craft his hat from red and white pieces of felt and create his face with googly eyes and a little red pom. A little cotton from the cotton balls will make up his beard, and there you have it!

    These make terrific decorations for around the house or even for the tree. The best part is that the back of Santa’s face is blank, so you can make personalize messages.

    1. Paper Snowman

    This one comes to us from Easy, Peasy, and Fun. It’s an aptly named website because this craft is pretty much all of those things.

    For this one, all you need are some different coloured paper, scissors, glue, cardstock, and a black marker. Roll some white paper into a tube and glue the ends together. You’ll want to do this three times to make the snowman’s body. Once the glue has dried, you want to then glue your tubes onto the cardstock.

    The black and orange paper will create his hat and carrot nose. You’re more than welcome to decorate his hat however you see fit, which is where all the different kinds of paper comes in! From there, you can make your snowman’s face using your marker.

    These are so easy to make, so you should definitely look into making more than one! Stick them up in your house or make one for each member of your family.

    1. Pinecone Christmas Tree

    Our final idea comes from PJs and Paint. A bit of paint, wooden stars, and a glue gun will turn an ordinary pinecone into a festive Christmas tree!

    One of the best things about this craft is that you can really make your tree look exactly how you want. Once you paint the pinecone green (and let the paint dry) you can then go in and add snowy branches, lights, and stars to put on top.

    Bear in mind that you’ll need a glue gun to get the stars on top of the pinecone. So, be sure to have an adult with you so you don’t accidentally hurt yourself.

    These simple crafts will get you on the right track to welcome Santa to your home. Make as many as you want and fill your home with Christmas cheer!

    https://pjsandpaint.com/crafts/pinecone-christmas-tree-craft/

    https://www.easypeasyandfun.com/how-to-make-a-paper-snowman-craft/

    https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/santa-handprint-craft/

  • Fall Back, Spring Ahead with Your Goals!

    Fall Back, Spring Ahead with Your Goals!

    We hope you enjoyed that extra hour of sleep as Daylight Savings Time came to an end! Getting that bonus hour is always a treat, but adjusting to the time change can be tricky, especially as the days get shorter and darker. It’s the time of year when balancing school, activities, and maybe even a part-time job can start to feel a bit overwhelming, so take a moment to check in with yourself and see what you need to stay on top of everything.

    With less daylight, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. But you can make it work by building routines that help you stay focused. Start by creating a to-do list each week, setting specific study hours, or trying out new ways to unwind and recharge. Keeping a balance will help you make the most of every day, even when it feels like the sun sets way too soon!

    This month’s articles are below to help keep you inspired and on track, plus check out our interviews with industry pros for insights into different career paths. Keep pushing forward – we’re cheering you on!

    Warm regards,
    Anthony Teles
    Vice-President, Content

  • November 2024 Scholarships – Apply now!

    November 2024 Scholarships – Apply now!

    Seymour Schulich Scholarships and Awards
    Scholarship Value: $15,180
    Awards Available: 24
    Award Deadline: December 1, 2024

     

    Ontario Road Builders’ Association Civil Engineering Scholarships
    Scholarship Value: $2,000
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: December 5, 2024

     

    Bank of Montreal Award
    Scholarship Value: $72,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: December 8, 2024

     

    Dr. Iris May Marsh Memorial Award
    Scholarship Value: $48,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: December 8, 2024

     

    Queen’s University Chancellor’s Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $48,000
    Awards Available: 50
    Award Deadline: December 8, 2024

     

    Travers Metalworking Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $500
    Awards Available: 3
    Award Deadline: December 31, 2024

     

    Jean Caya Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $1,200
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: January 31, 2025 (estimated)

     

    CIBC National Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $25,000
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: February 14, 2025

     

    John Proctor Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $8,000
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: February 15, 2025

     

    Wilfrid Laurier University Chancellor’s Scholarship Fund
    Scholarship Value: $5,000
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: March 1, 2025

     

    Jean Chretien Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $5,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: March 31, 2025

     

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Black Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

     

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Indigenous Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

  • Indigenous Student Scholarships for November 2024

    Indigenous Student Scholarships for November 2024

    Canadian Media Guild Scholarship for Indigenous Students
    Scholarship Value: $10,000 per year
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: November 30, 2024

     

    RBC Future Launch Scholarship for Indigenous Youth
    Scholarship Value: $10,000
    Awards Available: 20
    Award Deadline: Applications for 2025 will open in Fall 2024

     

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Indigenous Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

  • Career Profile: Logging Equipment Operator

    Career Profile: Logging Equipment Operator

    Wood is an important part of every building, whether it is in doorways, on kitchen tables, or elsewhere. Before carpenters can make it into chairs or many other objects, people have to cut down trees and get them to the factories. Logging equipment operators help to move trees after they have been cut down so that manufacturers can work with the wood and turn it into all kinds of objects.

    Logging involves skill with a variety of machines and tools, such as bulldozer blades, cable winches, and more. Being able to coordinate driving a vehicle with operating the equipment is an essential part of being a logging equipment operator. Often, work in this field involves long hours, moving logs from where they have been cut down to the trucks that will transport them to where they need to go.

    Training to become a logging equipment operator involves a combination of education and experience. Usually, employers require people to have at least a high school diploma, as well as a driver’s license. On-the-job training can last from three to sixteen months, where learning to use new types of equipment is necessary. Being able to handle heavy equipment in muddy conditions or bad weather is very important for this job.

    Often, people can learn through experience, but it may be necessary to take courses or training sessions to practice new techniques. Experience can help people advance in this job, and learning special skills can give people flexibility in looking for work.

    Generally, salaries for logging equipment operators begin at about $19 per hour or $40,000 per year and can rise to about $36 per hour or $85,000 per year. The work can involve long hours, and it can be hot in summer and cold at other times of the year. Although people can continue in this career for many years, they may want to move on to other work as they get older.

    Normally, logging happens only in certain areas of Canada, mainly in the north. This job also tends to be seasonal and can depend on factors such as forest fires. Many people in this line of work may choose to fly in from other parts of the country and to stay in logging camps during the main working season. Being away from family and friends can be difficult, but it is often necessary.

    Like many physically difficult jobs, logging can be dangerous, even for people operating the equipment and driving the trucks. If the equipment falls off of its attachment, it can injure or kill anyone who is underneath. Logging equipment operators have to be careful to watch for other workers, and to make sure not to hit anyone else with a piece of equipment or to be hit by something themselves. Some of the areas where they work can be quite steep or uneven, and drivers need to be careful not to tip over.

    Working as a logging equipment operator has its challenges, but it can be a good choice for people who enjoy working outside with various types of equipment. Many people, including those who love the outdoors and working with their hands, could enjoy this job.

     

    Bibliography:

    Job Bank. “Logging Machinery Operator near Toronto (ON).” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/requirements/21779/22437

    My Plan. “Logging Equipment Operators.” https://www.myplan.com/careers/logging-equipment-operators/description-45-4022.00.html.

    Owl Guru. “How to Become a Logging Equipment Operator.” https://www.owlguru.com/career/logging-equipment-operators/requirements/.

    Payscale Canada. “Heavy Equipment Operator Hourly Rate.” https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Heavy_Equipment_Operator/Hourly_Rate.

  • Career Profile: Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products

    Career Profile: Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products

    When you go to a store, you might not realize how much work goes into getting products onto the shelves. Someone has to buy the products first from the suppliers who make the products or import them from elsewhere. This type of work as a wholesale and retail buyer might be right for you.

    People buy many different types of products, including clothes, toys, pictures, books, and anything else that they need. Usually, they go to a retail store to buy what they want for themselves and their families. However, some people buy for large groups like hospital patients or students at a school or university. Then they go to wholesale sellers where they can buy large amounts at once. After that, retail and wholesale buyers make the products available for customers.

    Working as a retail or wholesale buyer involves constant research. People in this field need to know about current and past trends in buying and selling, as well as understand how to determine the quality of the goods and what a fair price would be. Being able to use computers is important for being able to keep track of a store’s inventory and contracts with suppliers.

    Bringing in goods for sale can be a complicated process. Retail or wholesale buyers need strong connections with suppliers and salespeople. Often, they might have a few main people that they work with, but they should always be ready to work with new people when a salesperson moves away or leaves the job for another reason. The job involves connecting the work of suppliers with the people who need the product.

    During the pandemic, people needed medical masks to help protect them from COVID-19. Hospitals needed thousands of these masks for doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff to use. Wholesale suppliers helped to ensure new masks kept coming from the factories to the hospitals. However, many ordinary people needed masks, as well. Retail buyers needed to make connections with the factories that made the masks so that people could buy the masks they needed.

    Working as a retail or wholesale buyer is not normally physically difficult, but it can involve long hours and might sometimes require some travel. Much of the work can be done over the phone or e-mail, but wholesale or retail buyers should also be willing to go see products to make sure that they are good quality. When two or more types of a certain product are available, they might need to consult experts to decide which one to choose.

    Educational requirements for the job of wholesale or retail buyer depend on the organization. Some require just a high school diploma with courses such as mathematics and English, but others might want buyers to have a degree in a field such as economics or accounting. Experience is always helpful, and people can often benefit from studies in areas related to their work, such as medicine or education. Salaries begin at about $34,000 and can rise to $51,000 per year. Jobs are likely to be easier to find in large cities than in small communities, but people can find work in this field almost anywhere.

    The job of wholesale or retail buyer can be a good choice for people who are organized and able to work with others. If that describes you, it could be your ideal job.

     

    Bibliography

    Jobs Radar. “Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products.” https://www.jobsradar.com/careers/job_information/wholesale-retail-buyers-except-farm-products#

    Payscale Canada. “Wholesale and Retail Buyer (Except Farm Products).” https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Wholesale_and_Retail_Buyer%2C_(except_Farm_Products)/Salary.

    Owl Guru. “How To Become a Wholesale and Retail Buyer.” https://www.owlguru.com/career/wholesale-and-retail-buyers-except-farm-products/requirements/#

    My Major. “Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Product Career.” https://www.mymajors.com/career/wholesale-and-retail-buyers-except-farm-products/

  • Career Profile: Audio and Video Equipment Technicians

    Career Profile: Audio and Video Equipment Technicians

    If you watch a video online or a program on television, or you listen to a radio show, you might think mainly about the actors or presenters but not as much about the people who keep the equipment running. However, the job of audio and video equipment technician is very important, and it could be the right job for you.

    Recording audio or video clips can be quite complicated. With video, the technician must consider questions such as the amount of light, any background noise, and sometimes the weather if the video is being taken outside. For audio technicians, some of the factors are background noise, sound effects, and the different volumes of sound that need to go into the same recording. Getting the recording right often involves adjusting for people with loud or soft voices, watching for who is in the sun and who is in the shade, and much more.

    Working as an audio or video equipment technician is much more complicated than just adjusting the volume for different people’s voices. People in this field need to know how the recording will look on a screen and sound on people’s radios or phones. Often, this requires going to the location where the audio or video will be recorded and testing various options for sound and lighting.

    Some people may be able to learn this trade on the job, especially in smaller communications companies. However, most people get a certificate that takes from one to three years to complete. They learn techniques for choosing what to record, editing their files, and even doing minor repairs to the equipment. High school courses that are useful for this field include mathematics, English, and anything technical or artistic.

    Jobs in this field are available in film and movie companies, but also in universities, schools, and other organizations. Sometimes, the work of audio or video equipment technician might be part of another job, such as teacher. Wages vary from one region to another, but they generally start below $20 per hour and can rise to more than $45 per hour. The average salary for this job is over $67,000 per year.

    Audio and video equipment technicians need to know about their equipment and surroundings, but it also helps if they know how to research and tell a story. In some cases, the technicians might help with planning the recording and choosing the people to be involved, although often their role is limited to running the equipment.

    People in this field should be reasonably healthy and strong since the job often involves lifting heavy equipment. The hours can be long, especially if a video depends on the weather or if the people involved in the project have other commitments that will take them away. Being organized and efficient is important in this career. Flexibility is very useful, since if a section of the recording is unusable, the technician would need to redo the work or find something to substitute for the original segment.

    In Canada, much of the major video and audio work is done in Vancouver and Toronto, but jobs are also available elsewhere. Many small towns have their own radio stations, and small television networks can be a good place to look for a job. If you like the idea of working as an audio or video equipment operator, you can start developing your skills now already.

     

    Bibliography

    Indeed.com. “Event Audio Video Technical Lead (Video Specialist) – Winnipeg.” https://ca.indeed.com/Audio-Video-Equipment-Technicians-jobs?vjk=f14742916535eae2&advn=1938927.

    Job Bank. “Audiovisual (AV) Technician in Canada.” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/skills/5546/ca.

    Study in Canada. “Audio and Video Recording Technicians (NOC 5225).” https://www.studyincanada.com/Careers/CareerProfile.aspx?CareerCode=5225avr.

    WorkBC. “Audio and Video Recording Technicians.” https://www.workbc.ca/career-profiles/audio-and-video-recording-technicians.

  • Fun Outdoor Activities to Stay Active and Healthy this Autumn

    Fun Outdoor Activities to Stay Active and Healthy this Autumn

    By Rabia Khan

    Autumn is the best time to go hiking, climbing, walking in the meadows and leaves, nature power walking, or just feeling nips in the air while snuggling into warm woolens. When the sky is clear and the sun shines brightest, you’re bound to jump with joy at your weekend plans. This season celebrates much-deserved time with loved ones and those outdoor activities that keep your soul alive.

    Unwind Yourself in Nature

    Camp at the foot of the mountains under the stars. Have a bonfire going while humming to mindful music with friends, and generally having a relaxing time. Get up at dawn, feeling the dew on your skin – the freshness of it all reinvigorates your mind and body.

    Move Your Legs!

    Of course, running or jogging is a wonderful way to enjoy the autumn air. It burns calories and you gives an awesome feeling of fitness.

    Another fantastic way of doing cardio exercises is a corn maze. Race your family, friends, and loved ones in the crisp fall atmosphere.

    You can hit the gym if you need a change, but believe me, it’s nothing like the outdoors.

    Playing Games is Always Fun!

    Play basketball, volleyball, or frisbee in the park. There are so many games to be played outdoors. You can play tennis or badminton with friends, or even go running with your dog. I am sure your furry friend will enjoy playing too.

    Be Adventurous! 

    For those adventurous geeks, hit the trail on a bike. That’s a lot of exercise for your legs and going to do you a world of good.

    Stretch the Stress Away

    There are also classes you can join for yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and more. There are so many stress busters to choose from.

    Check Out a Farmer’s Market

    There are also the farmer’s markets where you browse their fresh produce. This is a great way to get the nutrition your body needs.

    Rev Your Engine!

    If long drives excite you, then hit the road. If everything you’ve tried leaves you wanting more, there are plenty of scenic places to discover. There’s no dearth of spots to visit, so rev up your engine and take off down the highway.

    Photograph Nature

    Soaking in the sun’s warmness and painting the sky with your camera is a different vibe altogether. Click photographs of maple leaves, rustic roads, and the fragile branches of banyan trees running cold. Make a lifetime worth of memories this autumn!

    Barbecuing!

    It’s always fun to eat with family. This is the season to roast delectable chicken turkey in your farmhouse. Make this outdoor activity a little more interesting by picking fruits and vegetables with a loved one. You can even go fishing, and take a dive in the cool waters.

    Build a Bonfire

    A quick bonfire with a round of salsa dancing can make your autumn season full of love. Include your wildest and craziest friend circle to enjoy the weekend. Light up the woods with sticks and blow on the fire.

    Go on a picnic. Go rock climbing. There are lots of things to do. Go for it!

  • Fall Activities – What Can You do to Enjoy Fall?

    Fall Activities – What Can You do to Enjoy Fall?

    Now that it is officially Autumn, what is a better way to celebrate than going outside to and enjoy it? If you don’t have any ideas of what to do to enjoy fall, don’t fret! We have you covered. Whether you want to be active, relax, or enjoy time with your family, we have ideas for all of it!

    Try visiting a local farm. Most farms that are open to the public have fall-themed activities such as hay barrels, pumpkin patches, hay/tractor rides, corn mazes, and more! They usually also offer food such as candy apples and apple cider. Make it into a tradition and bring your family and friends. Farms can be a perfect place to spend a Fall day.

    Perhaps the best way to celebrate fall with your family is to go apple picking. Apple picking has been a tradition in my family for years. There are numerous apple orchards all over the world so it’s easy to find one near you! Take a trip to your local orchard and have fun picking out the shiniest apples you see. Another idea is to make a treat out of them once you get home – try making apple pie, apple crumble or apple crisp- yummm.

    If you are looking for a mellow way to enjoy Autumn, grab a book and a cup of your favourite warm drink and head outside. Find a cozy spot to relax, read, and breathe in the fresh air around you. Try doing this first thing in the morning. It can be a great way to relax and unwind before you begin your day.

    Lastly, a definite way to enjoy is to plan a nice hike or picnic with your friends, family, or even by yourself! Find a trail or a path near you, bring some hot chocolate, and surround yourself with the vibrant colours. Bring your favourite snacks, wear a comfy sweater, and have fun.

    If none of these ideas interest you, here are a few more: We suggest going for a run outdoors, making your own apple cider, decorating your house with Fall or Halloween decorations, buying a pumpkin-scented candle, making your own hot chocolate or baking your favourite Fall treat. I hope this helps you enjoy your Autumn and gives you fresh ideas of ways to make this Fall memorable and fun.

    Sources:

      1. https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/entertainment/fall-activities