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  • Canadian Government Programs Offering Short-Term Work for Students

    Canadian Government Programs Offering Short-Term Work for Students

    For many, summer means a vacation before school resumes in the fall. Some students see a break as an opportunity to find work. Luckily, the Canadian government provides some programs catered towards students looking for short-term work in between schooling.

    Canada Summer Jobs

    Under the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) program, Canada Summer Jobs provides youth aged 15-30 with employment during the summer. The program aims to help younger Canadians smoothly transition into the workforce. These jobs start in April at the earliest and end in early September at the latest. Youth within this program receive safe, inclusive, and healthy work environments.

    Eligibility

    • Must be between 15 and 30 years old at the beginning of the employment period
    • Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person with refugee protection under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act during employment
    • Must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) and be legally able to work in Canada

    Young Canada Works (YCK)

    Young Canada Works (YCK) is a government job program open to high school, college, CEGEP, and university students. YCK offers short-term jobs through two programs that help students earn work experience and skills, and explore various regions within Canada.

    Youth Canada Works in Heritage Organizations (YCWHO)

    The YCWHO program employs students aged 16-30 in positions related to Canadian heritage. This includes jobs helping heritage organizations such as museums and libraries. The program ranges from 6 to 16 weeks for full-time work, but it also offers part-time.

    Young Canada Works in Both Official Languages (YCWBOL)

    The YCWBOL program allows students aged 15-30 to hone their language skills while working. Students will use their first or second language in an official language minority community. This program requires a working knowledge of both English and French. According to the University of Western Ontario, working knowledge means discussing topics comfortably necessary for workplaces.

    The Senate of Canada’s Student Employment Program

    For students in Ottawa, the Senate offers employment and COOP opportunities during the school year and the summer. Students will spend time in or near Parliament Hill gaining useful skills.

    Fields of work include:

    • Communication
    • Finance and procurement
    • Human resources
    • Information management
    • Legislative services

    Eligibility

    For student employment or COOP, students must:

    • Be at least 17 years old
    • Be an official full-time student in a recognized secondary or post-secondary institution, or be enrolled as a full-time student for the fall
    • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

    COOP opportunities place students in their field of study for 16 weeks during one of these time periods:

    • September to December
    • January to April
    • May to late August

    Student employment during the school year or summer (early May to late August) places students in either part-time or full-time positions. The senate calculates wages based on criteria such as relevant work experience and years of study.

    These government employment programs for students expose individuals to unique experiences while improving their skillsets and knowledge about Canadian culture. By engaging through Canadian heritage organizations, working in both official languages, or working at the Senate itself, Canadian students can explore a variety of options for short-term work.

  • Learning on the Job: My Experience as A Fast-Food Worker

    Learning on the Job: My Experience as A Fast-Food Worker

    During the summer after grade 10, I got a part-time job in fast food, where I worked five-hour shifts, Monday through Friday. My tasks were what many normally associate with these kinds of positions. When I started, cleaning was my main responsibility. I’d wipe down tables, sweep and mop the floor, wash trays, replenish dining room supplies, and take out the garbage just before leaving for the day. After that, helping with food preparation, like making sandwiches, became another regular task. The last was using the cash registers.

    As mentioned above, I started off with cleaning and ended up creating a comfortable routine for myself. Nevertheless, it was all I did for the first five weeks, so I didn’t have many direct interactions with customers throughout that period of time, other than some approaching me to either ask a question or express a complaint/concern. I would then pass these on to my more senior co-workers unless I could assist them on my own, which happened occasionally. The same applied to when I also prepared food.

    I’m very introverted, so I wasn’t eager to handle the cash register because this evidently meant speaking with customers face-to-face on a regular basis. Of course, I did eventually, but didn’t spend as much time doing so as I should have due to this initial hesitation. I remember being quite nervous while people told me their orders, especially on days when the restaurant was busy. However, luckily for me, my circumstances were mostly ideal as my manager as well as co-workers were instructive, but also showed a lot of support while I was learning how to carry out transactions and deal with customers. I recall one occasion where a co-worker kindly told me that I should have put a customer’s change into their hand after I just slid their change across the counter toward them. I appreciated all the helpful pointers they provided and how understanding they were.

    Overall, I learned how important it is to take the initiative. Though working in fast food was definitely a good experience as my very first job, I could have made the experience even better by being more assertive and willing to take on responsibilities that intimidated me. Oftentimes, feeling discomfort in this regard remains necessary while gaining certain skills. It was also a reminder that even though mistakes will be made, these mistakes can lead to growth if introspection is involved. It’s a difficult undertaking without a doubt, but having that positive perspective makes a huge difference.

    As I reflect on my time there, I would say the most valuable takeaway was, rather than worrying so much about what might go wrong, focusing on how acquiring various skills (particularly interpersonal ones in this case) could be beneficial, long-term. Remaining aware of the positive possibilities can act as an incentive and a way to increase self-confidence. Stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial if you know there’s a possibility of enhancing existing skills and/or learning something new.

  • Incognito – 4 Jobs that You Didn’t Know Were Skilled Trades

    Incognito – 4 Jobs that You Didn’t Know Were Skilled Trades

    Trades play an important role in the Canadian economy, but sadly, misconceptions still persist about the profession. Some people continue to believe that it’s wholly a man’s world, while some carry on with their perception that the trades are all about working in construction, complete with hard hats and work boots. While the construction industry does involve a large number of people with trades skills, it doesn’t automatically mean that all trades equal construction work.

    In fact, you’d be surprised that there are a good number of jobs that you probably didn’t know were skilled trades. Let’s dive into some examples.

    Landscape Artist

    Landscape artists or designers are often second fiddle to architects, builders or engineers when residential or commercial spaces are mentioned. In reality, they are just as important, and as you’ve probably guessed by now, they fall under skilled trades. In commercial spaces, landscape designers make sure the landscape complements the brand’s aesthetics. In residential spaces, they ensure your home is truly your dream living space.

    To succeed in this industry, one would have a good balance of creativity and practicality at the same time. Not only do they have to make sure their designs meet aesthetic purposes, but they also have to make sure they are functional. This skilled trade also requires horticultural knowledge as well as IT savviness, since there are numerous software programs available now to help them see their vision in digital form.

    Child & Youth Worker

    When people say they want a successful career, that usually means financially rewarding. However, for some people, career success means a chance to make a lasting impact on others, such as a child & youth worker, which is also surprisingly considered a skilled trade. Child and youth workers have the opportunity to mould young ones and get them ready for the future ahead—and you can’t put a price tag on that.

    Whatever work environment they are involved in, whether recreational centres or summer camps out of the city, child and youth workers must provide a healthy and safe environment for kids, making sure it is inclusive and engaging as well. These professionals are well-versed in practice and theory pertaining to childcare and the instructional methods used to enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional development.  Advanced to expert knowledge in behaviour management strategies and overall psychology of children is also an advantage.

    Educational Assistant

    There are a slew of jobs that offer financial rewards, but only a few allow you to make a great contribution to change the world. Such is the role of educational assistants, who primarily work with students to understand their learning capabilities and help them with their academic goals, while at the same time building on their self-esteem and leadership skills to prepare them to thrive in the real world.

    It is up to the educational assistants to truly assess students’ needs and ensure these needs are met so the students can realize their full potential when they become adults. It is an advantage to have knowledge in child development, educational psychology, and education policies.

    Special Events Coordinator

    If you’re fond of attending events like food festivals or film festivals, you probably don’t realize the

    painstaking work behind it. But you’ve got the special events coordinator to thank for because they who ensure everything is in place before, during, and after the event. This is an exciting profession for sure, but it involves a lot of time and effort, and guess what, it also falls under skilled trades.

    Special events coordinators have to be masters in planning and organizing, and should possess excellent leadership abilities and collaborative skills. While an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in any related field, such as Business Administration or Public Relations, is an advantage, much of the skills needed to succeed in this field is actual experience in customer service, communications, or public relations.

    There you have it, five examples of skilled trades in disguise. Now that you’ve got an idea, which one do you think will fit you best?

    SOURCES

    https://talentegg.ca/

  • Work Experience and Internships – What’s Available for High Schoolers

    Work Experience and Internships – What’s Available for High Schoolers

    In high school, and sometimes even earlier, many students start to look for summer jobs to earn money and to learn something about working for a living. Sometimes, however, high school students can get involved in special work experience projects and internships. These types of experiences can be very valuable for teaching students the skills they need for the future in settings that help them use these skills later in life.

    Both work experience and internships can be valuable for students who want to start preparing for the future. People sometimes confuse “work experience” and “internship,” since they can often appear to be the same. However, work experience is normally for a shorter period than an internship, and it is usually unpaid. Although many internships are also unpaid, traditionally, the expectation was that internships included at least a small salary to help participants pay their bills while they were in the program.

    Work experience and internships normally involve both practical and theoretical work. It tends to be very practical, with students following workers around to see the job first-hand. Students in these programs might be given projects to complete so that their supervisors can test their progress. For example, a student working at a veterinarian’s office might compile information on certain types of animals, including common illnesses and best treatments.

    Almost any business, school, or government office might have work experience programs or internships. However, some of them are specifically designed to help high school students get the experience they need to help them in their future careers.

    The Crimson Education website lists some of the internships available to high school students in Canada. One example is the SickKids’ Student Advancement in Research (StAR) Internship. This program works through the University of Toronto to help students learn about medical research and to complete a project that uses the skills that they have gained.

    Hamilton also has a summer student program that accepts students aged fourteen or older to learn skills such as communication, collaboration, and time management. Meanwhile, the students also have a chance to meet with potential employers and to receive an assessment of both their strengths and areas that need improvement.

    Although many internships are local, some are open to students from any part of the country. The House of Commons Youth Opportunities program gives high school students the chance for paid internships in areas including computer science, engineering, graphic design, accounting, and many other fields. Students should be at least sixteen years old to participate in this program.

    Many other parts of the country also have opportunities to learn special skills. In British Columbia, for example, Level One of the Youth Employment Program is open to students who have registered for high school in the past six months. The Manitoba government has a High School Apprenticeship Program for the trades, and Saskatchewan has the Saskatchewan Youth Internship Program, also related to the trades. Many other programs are available across the country.

    Being part of a work experience program or internship might seem difficult, but it can be worth the effort. You can already start to look for opportunities wherever you live.

     

    Bibliography

    Crimson Education. “10 Summer Internship Opportunities for Canadian High School Students.” https://www.crimsoneducation.org/ca/blog/internships-for-high-school-students/.

    Government of British Columbia. “Youth Employment Program.”  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/careers-myhr/job-seekers/internship-co-op-opportunities/youth-employment-program.

    Government of Canada. “Students and Graduates—Young Canada Works.” https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/young-canada-works/students-graduates.html.

    Government of Manitoba. “Youth Apprenticeship Programs.” https://www.gov.mb.ca/aesi/apprenticeship/discover/youth/index.html.

    Indeed. “10 Student Internships You Can Consider (With Benefits).” https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/student-internships.

    Saskatoon Industry Education Council. “Saskatchewan Youth Internship Program.” https://saskatooniec.ca/syip/.

    Student World Online. “The Difference Between Work Experience, Internships and Volunteering.” https://www.studentworldonline.com/article/the-difference-between-work-experience-internships-/162/.

    University of Waterloo. “Enrichment Programs for High School and Elementary Students.” https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/visit-waterloo/high-school-enrichment-programs.

  • Career Profile: Vocational Education Teachers – Post-Secondary

    Career Profile: Vocational Education Teachers – Post-Secondary

    After high school, many people go to university or community colleges to learn to become teachers, doctors, librarians, or computer experts. Other people choose to learn a trade, such as construction, mechanics, and other fields, through vocational school. If you want to help these types of people, you might want to consider becoming a vocational education teacher for post-secondary students.

    According to government statistics, about half of Canadians between the ages of eighteen and twenty-four are studying at some form of post-secondary school, whether that is at a university, college, or vocational school. For many students, vocational school is a natural choice for what they want to do. The studies are practical and lead to jobs that can keep people working throughout their careers.

    All schools need teachers who can give students the information and skills that they need to succeed in life. Teachers at vocational schools generally have degrees in education with additional training in a particular subject. For example, a teacher working with student mechanics would have mechanical training, whether through formal studies or work experience. An instructor in hairstyling would have training and experience in that field, and someone teaching transportation would have first-hand knowledge of that type of work. A degree in education normally takes four years to complete, plus the additional training.

    After they finish their training, vocational teachers can work in private or public schools, for governments, or even for businesses. Salaries begin at about $53,000 per year and can rise to $85,000 with experience. Depending on the type of vocation that the instructor is teaching, the work might be mainly in a classroom or mainly out on the job. It can be physically difficult in some cases, although it usually requires more mental than physical effort.

    Since studying is voluntary after high school, most students in vocational programs want to be there and will try to succeed or at least make a reasonable effort. Post-secondary vocational teachers normally have few behavioural issues to deal with, but it can still be hard sometimes to motivate students. Helping the ones who are struggling with the work can also be challenging. Working as a vocational teacher can be difficult in these ways, although it can also be rewarding. Vocational teachers need to understand students’ needs and adjust their teaching styles and content to suit the people they are instructing.

    Certain times of the year can be very busy for vocational teachers, such as when students are completing exams, but generally, the work is steady from September to April or June. Some schools might close for the summer, but others continue with classes throughout the year. Even then, however, vocational teachers are likely to have extended breaks for Christmas, spring break, and other holidays. The days can be long, especially if the teacher needs to mark assignments, but vocational teachers can often adjust the timing and content of their courses to allow themselves enough time to finish the work.

    Vocational teaching can be very practical, and some teachers might spend much of their time in garages or mechanic shops, showing students certain techniques. Other instructors spend much of their time in classrooms, teaching the theories behind the work. This aspect of the job makes vocational teaching a good choice for people with many different interests. It could be the right choice for you.

     

    Bibliography

    Talent.com. “Vocational Teacher Average Salary in Canada, 2024.” https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=vocational+teacher.

    Taylor, Alison. “Vocational Education in Canadian Schools.” https://www.edcan.ca/articles/vocational-education-in-canadian-schools/.

    Zeman, Klarka. “From High School, into Postsecondary Education and on to the Labour Market.” https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/81-595-m/81-595-m2023004-eng.htm.

  • Get STEM-Inspired Outside of the Classroom with These Activities

    Get STEM-Inspired Outside of the Classroom with These Activities

    Now that summer is closing in, you might be wondering how to continue building your knowledge once classes are over. The good news is, if you have a soft spot for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or “STEM”, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy and learn at the same time that you are outside the classroom.

    In fact, some of the inventions that have made the most impact in our lives were conceptualized not inside the classroom but by being outside with nature. For instance, the Wright Brothers spent a lot of time observing birds in flight to create their invention, which we now all know as the airplane. By watching birds closely and how they soar into the wind and change their wings to turn and maneuver, the Wright Brothers developed the concept of obtaining roll control by warping or changing the shape of a portion of a plane’s wing.

    They noticed that birds soared into the wind and that the air flowing over the curved surface of their wings created lift. Birds change the shape of their wings to turn and maneuver. The Wrights believed that they could use this technique to obtain roll control by warping, or changing the shape, of a portion of the wing. Who knew that mere bird watching could lead to something great?

    Here then are activities outside the classroom which can strengthen your STEM knowledge:

    National Parks

    The best way to immerse yourself in nature is through national parks. You will learn more about the inner workings of the environment and ecosystems. Thankfully, Canada has loads and loads of national parks for you to do that and have fun at the same time by hiking, swimming, white water rafting, biking, and so on. Be reminded that if you do plan to head out to a national park, have an adult accompany you and take all the safety precautions, such as packing a sufficient amount of food and drinks and bringing a first aid kit.

    Botanical Gardens

    If hiking or biking is too strenuous for you (or your adult companion), then taking a leisure walk at botanical gardens is a good alternative, while at the same time, you get up close and personal with a wide variety of plants that are collected for scientific, conservation, display, or educational purposes. You have a long list to choose from of the most marvellous botanical gardens in Canada, including the Vandusen Botanical Garden in Vancouver, BC; the Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton, AB; the Assiniboine Park Conservatory in Winnipeg, MB; the Montreal Botanical Garden in Montreal, QC; Memorial University Botanical Garden in St. Johns, NL; Kingsbrae Garden in St. Andrews, NB; and the Toronto Botanical Garden in Toronto, ON.

    Workshops in Communities

    Of course, learning STEM outside the classroom doesn’t always have to involve nature. There’s a plethora of STEM-focused workshops funded by non-profit organizations that cater to kids who are passionate about STEM. For instance, the Hospital for Sick Children or simply SickKids conduct workshops for communities (by request) which include hands-on experiments plus a wide range of demonstrations. All the tools are provided by these organizations, so you wouldn’t have to worry about bringing your own.

    Museums, Science, and Technology Centres

    Canada’s certainly now lacking when it comes to museums and science and technology centres that can bolster your STEM know-how. The Science World at TELUS World of Science and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, both in Vancouver, BC in Vancouver, BC; the Montreal Science Centre in Montreal, QC; the Manitoba Museum in Winnipeg, MB and the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto, ON, all provide insightful and delightful science-centred activities for kids of all ages.

    STEM Kits

    You can also increase your STEM knowledge right at home through STEM kits such as the LittleBits Inventor Kit, perfect for kids aged 8 and up. This kit allows budding inventors to further study their potential, but it comes with a high price tag. For more wallet-friendly options, there’s the Kiwi Crate for all ages that allows you to build a project based on the instructions provided. If you’re more for technology and coding, Tech Will Save Us is the ideal option, and you’ll learn how to build a synth. If you’re more wired for electricity, the Basic Electricity kit is the one for you.

    Now that you know there are plenty of ways to boost your STEM knowledge outside the classroom, are you ready to get inspired now? The world awaits your great idea.

    SOURCES

    https://www.dawn.com/news/1297127

    https://www.todaysparent.com/family/activities/best-botanical-gardens/

    https://www.engadget.com/2019/05/09/best-blended-stem-kits/

  • My Co-Op Experience: Where Friendships Are Made by Ascenza

    My Co-Op Experience: Where Friendships Are Made by Ascenza

    Written by Ascenza

    A few summers ago, I was able to experience and work in an environment that truly inspired me and my future endeavours. I spent my summer working and doing a co-op placement at a summer camp. As a grade 11 student going into grade 12, a student who was and still is dedicated to spending time with children and youth, I was more than happy to spend my summer Co-Op experience working as a camp counsellor. I was placed at an arts and crafts camp where I was working with campers that were ages 6-8 years old.

    During my placement, I was able to help the campers create art that expressed their inner feelings, and I taught them about the different aspects of art. This experience allowed me to weigh the positives and negatives of working with children since I have always wanted to pursue a job in education. There were, of course, more positive experiences, such as the one-to-one relationships I made, seeing the effect I had on the children and learning the importance of building relationships with the children and the other workers.

    The most memorable part about the program was the welcoming environment that the centre had instilled in the workers and even the campers. I was working with a group of people who were dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic about their jobs, which inspired me. My placement allowed me to meet many new people who have been inspiring role models for my future.

    During my placement, I was able to learn how to better interact with children, create lesson plans and build better communication skills. These skills are perfect for my future since I plan to pursue a career in education. Not only was the working environment friendly, but it was also a beautiful building. Towards the end, it was hard to leave the amazing staff and campers until I was offered a job and got to stay the rest of the summer! Being able to get a credit while doing one of the things I love the most, being with children, has really influenced me and has opened my eyes to many other opportunities. The staff, campers and building will always have a special place in my heart, and I recently got hired for a March Break counsellor position and worked 1:1 with a Reach for the Rainbow camper. During my placement, it may have seemed like the campers were learning from me, but in the long run, I was the one who learned the most. I want to thank everyone who allowed me to come out of my shell and who has helped me grow into a passionate person, friend, and camp counsellor.

  • Career Profile: Etchers and Engravers (French version available)

    Career Profile: Etchers and Engravers (French version available)

    A bracelet, a ring, or etched picture can be a nice gift, especially when it is made personal. Etchers and engravers use their artistic skills to write words or draw pictures on metal, wood, rubber, or other materials. For people with artistic skills and steady hands, the job of etcher or engraver can be a good choice.

    Educational requirements for people in this trade vary, but a high school diploma is usually enough to get a job. High school courses in English and mathematics can be useful, as well as any type of course that helps students learn to use their hands. Some employers might want etchers and engravers to take courses at a trade school, but not always. Taking courses in fine art, jewelry, or similar subjects can be helpful.

    Besides this training, special courses in etching and engraving can be useful. In Ontario, Alberta, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories, trade certification is available but not required. The Society of Canadian Painter-Etchers and Engravers is a good place to find information on current requirements and other questions. Getting support from other people in the trade is also useful, especially since the work can often be quite solitary.

    Much of the work of an etcher or engraver is learned on the job. Some employers prefer to hire people with experience in the trade, and so getting a summer position or a part-time job in an engraving shop can be useful. Often, shopping malls have small stores where this kind of work is done. Larger stores or tourist shops might also have work. Even factories sometimes hire etchers and engravers to work with company logos and other jobs.

    People in this trade need to be both creative and precise. Sometimes, customers come with exact designs that they want, but sometimes they need help with ideas. Creativity and patience can help people in this trade to work with the public. The ability to follow directions is also essential. Physically, this trade requires good eyesight with or without glasses and a steady hand. Being able to use very delicate tools is important.

    As people age, they might find the work too difficult, and they might want to move to the design side of the job. Generally, salaries start at about $44,000 and can eventually reach $94,000 per year.

    Normally, the work of an etcher and engraver is indoors, where weather is not an issue. However, people’s backs and hands can become sore, and their eyes can become tired. Working with customers can be stressful, and it is important to be patient. Being able to work with colleagues is necessary in some cases, but being able to work alone, often for hours at a time, is also useful.

    As in many other trades, keeping up to date is important. Reading about the latest design trends, tools, and other issues is essential for keeping current. Even after the initial training, some people in this trade might want to take extra courses to make sure that they know as much as possible about their work.

    Working as an etcher and engraver can be a good choice for people who are both creative and attentive to detail. If that describes you, this trade might be something to consider.

     

    Bibliography:

    Best Accredited Colleges. “How to Become an Engraver: Education, Training and Career Information.” https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/how-to-become-an-engraver-education-training-and-career-information.html.

    CareerOne Stop.” Etchers and Engravers.” https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/careers/occupations/Occupation-profile.aspx?keyword=Etchers%20and%20Engravers&onetcode=51919400&location=SAn%20Diego,%20CA&lang=en.

    Edward P. Taylor Library & Archives Special Collections. “Society of Canadian Painter-Etchers and Engravers. http://atom.ago.ca/index.php/society-of-canadian-painter-etchers-and-engravers.

    Glassdoor.ca. “Engraver Salaries in Canada.” https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/engraver-salary-SRCH_KO0,8.htm.

    Simon Fraser University. “Laser Cutting and Etching: Media and Maker Commons.” https://www.lib.sfu.ca/facilities/make-create/maker-commons/tools-spaces/laser-cutting.

    Statistics Canada. “National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011.” https://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p3VD.pl?Function=getVD&TVD=122372&CVD=122376&CPV=9472&CST=01012011&MLV=4&CLV=3.

  • Tree Planting as a Summer Job

    Tree Planting as a Summer Job

    The most common summer job field for teens is the food service industry, followed closely by the retail trade industry, according to the American Bureau of Labour Statistics. That means that most of us spend our summers flipping burgers or folding t-shirts, honest work that feeds and clothes the capitalist masses. But for some, the call of consumer culture falls on deaf ears. 17-year-old Sam Krawec has decided to earn his summer income while serving a greater purpose: tree-planting in Northern Ontario.

    Sam is a freshman in St. Francis Xavier University’s Development Studies program. He has always been environmentally conscious, thanks to a family that values sustainable living and global citizenship. “My mom inspired me to care about the world when I was very young,” he explains, “I always felt that it was important to give back.”

    By planting trees, Sam will be helping to filter pollutants from the air, reducing carbon dioxide levels in a community and producing healthy oxygen in a renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable way. Summer tree planting jobs generally coincide with the planting season; between six and eight weeks beginning in early May and ending in late June/early July. The average worker ends up planting upwards of 20,000 trees in that time, making a substantial impact in removing large quantities of the major greenhouse gases involved in global climate change.

    Tree planting is ‘piece work’, wherein you are paid according to the number of trees you produce. This means that the income you earn is a direct reflection of your productivity. In Ontario, agencies generally pay planters between 8 and 12 cents per tree, with first-year planters averaging between $2500 and $5000 in gross pay for the season. This varies depending on several factors, including whether or not your agency is unionized. Unionized agencies typically have better health and safety options, and may pay slightly more. The Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace Association produces written packages to educate planters on their health and safety rights.

    Joanna Gillies of Lakehead University compiled “A Qualitative Pilot Study of the Physical Demands of Tree Planting”, outlining them as specific areas of concern for anyone wishing to apply to a tree planting program. She claims that “factors affecting a planter’s performance include flexibility, grip strength, balance and agility, back strength, hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, strength endurance, mental toughness, aerobic fitness, and body fat percentage.” There are tests online to see if your general health is cohesive to the demands of life as a tree planter. If so, you are ready to start digging and making a difference in your environment.

    For Sam, every little bit he can contribute is worth the physical demands and summer-time commitment. “The pay is good, and it’s something tangible that I can do to help the planet. The world is a beautiful place, and I want to have a positive part in maintaining that”.

    If you are interested in working with a tree planting agency, check out http://www.replant.ca/.

  • Summer School: Why It’s Worth Your Time

    Summer School: Why It’s Worth Your Time

    Although the thought of spending a beautiful summer’s day inside a dark classroom while others are lounging at the beach may sound less than appealing, in the long run, taking summer school may actually prove to be one of the best decisions you will make while at college or university. Here’s why:

    1. Finish your degree in less time

    On average, it takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree. However, many students are now taking an extra year to finish their degree, which allows for a less stressful and demanding course load each semester. Having said this, there is a way to keep the stress level down without taking an extra year to complete your degree. By taking two courses per summer, you can complete your bachelor’s degree in just four years, while taking a manageable four courses per semester during the school year. By opting to cut your course load by just one class a semester (and instead take these classes during the summer), you can increase your free time while at the same time decreasing your stress. In addition, taking just two classes each summer means that you will still have extra time to get a part-time summer job, go on vacation, or just relax!

    2. Smaller class sizes

    If you’ve ever been one of four hundred students in an introductory psychology class, you know that quality one-on-one time with the professor is hard to come by. Although teaching assistants are usually made available via email and office hours in larger classes, it simply doesn’t compare to the valuable one-on-one direction and assistance of the professor, which is usually an integral part of smaller classes. The smaller size of summer school classes also provides greater opportunity for group work and interaction with fellow students. Depending on whether you prefer to brainstorm in groups or to work solo, this may or may not be seen as a benefit. Furthermore, professors are generally more lenient with due dates and the formalities of the class, and lectures are much more laid-back in summer school. With a more relaxed atmosphere, classes are less daunting and more enjoyable.

    3. Shorter course durations

    Many summer school classes are concentrated into four or eight-week sessions, making it the perfect time to get the more tedious classes over and done with in a relatively short amount of time. Or, on the other hand, if you want to take a class that you have a greater interest in, summer school allows for an intense focus on the subject matter. This may seem slightly paradoxical given the shorter duration of summer classes, but the greater amount of group work and one-on-one time with the professor means that you can discuss the subject matter in greater depth and hopefully gain a better understanding of the material. And, as stated before, taking fewer courses of shorter duration means that you can still have a fun and relaxing summer while at the same time working towards finishing your degree in less time!