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  • Un article sur les articles : la méthode pour écrire un article pour un site web comme JPD

    De Tiffany Chang

    Au fur et à mesure que les étudiants avancent dans leurs études, l’habitude du travail écrit continue de se développer. Que ce soit une dissertation explicative en français ou un exposé d’histoire, ils restent un élément indispensable du milieu universitaire et tout le monde en a l’habitude.

    Mais, avez-vous envisagé d’autres formes d’écriture que vous pourriez entreprendre ?

    Aimez-vous écrire ? Avez-vous déjà voulu écrire quelque chose d’autre, comme les articles en ligne vus sur ce site web, peut-être, qui peut mettre en valeur vos talents et compétences ?

    Si c’est le cas et si vous cherchez quelques conseils, voici un guide qui explique comment faire :

    Connaissez votre public cible

    La première étape pour écrire un article est de connaître le public pour qui vous l’écrivez. Cela vous aidera à établir votre méthode d’écriture. Par exemple, pour un site web qui publie des articles fournissant des informations sur un domaine particulier pour le grand public, ce n’est pas tout le monde qui comprendra la terminologie correspondante. Donc, la meilleure méthode du rédacteur sera d’utiliser un langage courant et en incluant peut-être des définitions pour communiquer l’information de manière efficace.

    Déterminez le ton de votre article

    Le ton peut être décrit comme l’attitude envers le lecteur ainsi que l’accent mis sur le message. Examinez votre sujet avec soin. Est-ce qu’il devrait sembler léger ou est-ce qu’un ton conventionnel serait plus approprié ?

    Un exemple pourrait comprendre des explications sur les façons de se détendre. Pour un article offrant ce genre de soulagement émotionnel, on peut utiliser peut-être un ton léger. Si vous écrivez sur un problème actuel comme les changements climatiques et souhaitez que les lecteurs prennent ce sujet au sérieux, donc il vaut mieux utiliser un ton clair et précis.

    Écrivez avec précision et concision

    Bien qu’un caractère conventionnel soit important lorsque l’on écrit un article en ligne, garder le texte limpide est également indispensable. Trop de mots peuvent détourner le sens et, la plupart du temps, ils sont superflus.

    Mettez-vous à la place du lecteur. Disons que vous voulez en apprendre plus sur un sujet particulier et commencer par une présentation. Voudriez-vous lire un article trop compliqué ? Ou en préfériez-vous un qui soit plus compréhensible ?

    En ce qui concerne l’écriture concise, les articles ont, en général, entre 500 et 1 000 mots (bien sûr, ça pourrait être plus ou moins, selon les conditions particulières qu’on vous a données). Ce nombre assure que les rédacteurs restent dans la limite de mots tout en faisant comprendre encore plus leurs points de vue. Au fur et à mesure que vous écrivez, souvenez-vous que plus de mots ne signifient pas obligatoirement un meilleur travail. Il faut privilégier la qualité sur la quantité.

    Corrigez et révisez

    Après avoir terminé votre article, relisez-le attentivement. Comme lorsque vous remettez un devoir écrit, c’est important de montrer que vous écrivez avec professionnalisme et que vous prenez soin de votre travail.

    Est-ce que votre texte est limpide ? Remarquez-vous des phrases trop longues qui pourraient être séparées ? Y a-t-il des fautes d’orthographe, de grammaire et d’autres erreurs pouvant être facilement rectifiées ?

    Écrire un article pour une plateforme en ligne peut être une démarche passionnante. Cela vous permet de changer votre façon d’écrire, de discuter d’un sujet qui vous intéresse ainsi que d’avoir votre travail publié et lu par d’autres personnes. Si vous découvrez une occasion d’écrire un article en ligne et que vous l’envisagez, je vous encourage à le faire.

     

    Références

    Purdue Owl. “Tone in Business Writing.” Tone in Business Writing // Purdue Writing Lab

  • Career Profile: Plasterers and Stucco Masons

    Career Profile: Plasterers and Stucco Masons

    Unfinished walls on a building look odd, but the issue is much bigger than appearance. Walls without the proper covering can also let in cold air, moisture, and ice. Plasterers and stucco masons help to keep buildings strong and safe by applying the right materials to construct or repair houses and other buildings, or sometimes structures like highways or city roads. If you like to work with your hands and to be involved in construction, the job of plasterer and stucco mason could be a good choice.

    The job of plasterer and stucco mason has many names, including artisan plasterer, plasterer journeyman, plaster applicator, and plastering contractor. The job involves applying plaster or stucco to surfaces such as walls and ceilings, ensuring that it is evenly applied to all areas that need it. People in this trade should know the methods and tools of construction so that they understand what kinds of factors affect plaster and stucco. For example, they need to know how the weight of a wall or the cold of winter weather affects the durability of plaster and stucco.

    Often, plaster and stucco masons need to understand current styles in building, because fashions tend to change. People in this field should also be able to see details close up and have steady hands. They should have the manual dexterity to handle tools well and the flexibility to bend and stretch enough to reach tight spots where they need to apply the material. Although arm strength is not necessarily important, people in this field should have strong muscles in their stomach and lower back to stand for long periods of time.

    Besides these physical characteristics, people in this career should have other abilities. They should be able to speak with others, especially customers, and be able to explain their work. Time management and critical thinking skills are important for being able to complete projects as efficiently as possible. Understanding principles of quality control and being able to monitor their progress is also important. Plasterers and stucco masons may sometimes need to supervise other workers, and they should have a good idea of what needs to be done and how each part fits with the others.

    Most plasterers and stucco masons learn their trade on the job from others in their field.  Often, employers require a high school diploma, and they might also want these workers to have a trade certificate or other training in topics such as insulation. Plasterers and stucco masons can often find work in construction companies, but they can also set up their own businesses and work for people who are renovating or building their homes.

    Working hours for people in this trade can be long and irregular, especially when a project is delayed. In large construction projects, the work might need to be done quickly if other parts of the job take longer than expected and the builders need to meet deadlines. These tradespeople often need to wait for other parts of the construction to be done before they can begin their work. Because stucco and plaster need to dry as one piece if possible, these tradespeople may need to work until late in the evening to finish a job.

    Wages for plasterers and stucco masons start at about twenty dollars per hour and can rise to almost thirty-three dollars per hour. Although people can stay in this field for their entire careers, the effects of aging might make the work too difficult for many people. If this job sounds good to you, why not consider becoming a plasterer and stucco mason?

     

    Bibliography:

    Canada Building Trades Union. “Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ Association of the United States and Canada (OPCIMA).” https://buildingtrades.ca/affiliates/operative-plasterers-and-cement-masons-international-association-of-the-united-states-and-canada-opcmia/.

    Career One Stop. “Plasterers and Stucco Masons.” https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/careers/occupations/occupation-profile.aspx?keyword=Plasterers%20and%20Stucco%20Masons&onetcode=47216100&location=US&lang=en.

    Owl Guru. “How to Become a Plasterer and Stucco Mason.” https://www.owlguru.com/career/plasterers-and-stucco-masons/requirements/.

    Payscale Canada. “Plasterer and Stucco Mason Hourly Rate.” https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Plasterer_or_Stucco_Mason/Hourly_Rate.

  • 5 Recommendations to Avoid Online School Burnout

    5 Recommendations to Avoid Online School Burnout

    The necessary transition from in-person classes to online classes to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus in early 2020 came with a unique set of challenges for students. Apart from having to adjust to then-unfamiliar digital learning platforms like Google Classroom and Zoom, students also had to get accustomed to limited social interaction as usual in-class activities had to be set aside or moved online.

    As the pandemic continued, online classes eventually became the norm until vaccination efforts succeeded throughout the country. By Fall 2021, educational institutions finally have been given the go-signal to re-launch in-person classes or at least offer the hybrid option, a combination of both in-person and online classes.

    Due to increased e-learning during this time, however, it’s become common for some students to experience online learning burnout. A study, with 80,000 participants from across the globe, revealed that school disruptions caused by the pandemic have caused 1 out of 5 youth anxiety. As the COVID-19 crisis goes on, the analysis led by professor of clinical psychology Sheri Madigan of the University of Calgary hopes to continue and examine ways to address the issue.

    If you’re dealing with anxiety due to on-and-off school closures and social lockdowns, read on for suggestions on how to cope.

    1. Adopt healthy eating habits.

    Mental stress already takes its toll on one’s physical health. So it’s important to make an effort to achieve optimum physical health during this time, starting with a nutritious diet. To gain the much-needed energy for your online classes, avoid fast food staples like burgers, milkshakes, and fries and opt instead for snacks that promote your wellbeing like fruits (especially berries), unsalted nuts, whole grain crackers and cereals, and veggies with low-fat dip options.

    1. Exercise.

    You don’t have to have an elaborate gym set-up at home to get physically fit. All you need is a brisk walk in the nearby park for at least 30 minutes and you’ll get a healthy dose of exercise. At wintertime, this is especially important since we have a limited amount of daylight. Once the sun’s out, take advantage and go for a walk and you’ll benefit from getting your Vitamin D as well. If you want to take it up a notch, you can also do online physical fitness classes. Due to lockdown rules, you have a load of options for trainers that offer classes online.

    1. Maintain a connection with friends and classmates.

    There might be a limit on social gatherings, but this doesn’t mean that you have to shut yourself completely to social interaction. Video conferences are a great way for you to establish a connection with your friends and classmates and have conversations with them as you would in a face-to-face setting. It may take a while to get used to at first, but once you’ve become comfortable with it, you’ll feel like you’re all chatting in an actual classroom. Incorporating e-games like Drawasaurus (online Pictionary) or Hangman into the video conferences is also an enjoyable way to interact with each other.

    1. Give yourself ample breaks.

    When you have back-to-back online classes and multiple projects on your plate, it’s challenging to take a breather – but doing so in this situation is all the more important. When you’re overwhelmed with all the tasks on your to do list, remember to set aside time to take a break. Do something that you enjoy that can help alleviate the stress: listening to you favourite music, watching a funny YouTube clip, doodling on your sketchbook, or calling a close friend. These are all helpful activities that allow you to block out all the work and focus on yourself, even for a bit of time.

    1. Talk about what you’re feeling with others.

    Confiding to family members and close friends about what you’re going through is an effective way to get the weight off your shoulder. COVID-19 has affected everyone, though in different ways, and sharing what you’re experiencing will make you realize that you’re not alone and that you can work together to help each other through this crisis. It’s certainly more productive than burying yourself in school work 24/7 or streaming your favourite shows nonstop.

    The virus has put a strain on our learning options and social activities, no doubt, but there are ways to manage through these hurdles. Give the suggestions above a shot and here’s hoping your feelings of online classes burnout will be a thing of the past.

     

    Sources

    Alibudbud, Rowalt. “On online learning and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: Perspectives from the Philippines.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8457633/

    Fares, Jawad, Mohamad Y. Fares and Nour Mheidly. “Coping With Stress and Burnout Associated With Telecommunication and Online Learning.” Frontiers in Public Health. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2020.574969/full

    Molano, Sarah. “Youth depression and anxiety doubled during the pandemic, new analysis finds.” CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/10/health/covid-child-teen-depression-anxiety-wellness/index.html

    Neustaeter, Brooklyn. “How to prioritize your child’s mental health amid a delayed return to school.” CTV News. https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/how-to-prioritize-your-child-s-mental-health-amid-a-delayed-return-to-school-1.5726677

    Parry, Wynne. “Pandemic stress: the toll it’s taking on students.” C&EN. https://cen.acs.org/education/undergraduate-education/Pandemic-stress-toll-s-taking/99/i2 

  • Pros and Cons of Attending College or University in a Smaller Town

    Pros and Cons of Attending College or University in a Smaller Town

    Movies and television love to depict young people attending college or university in “the big city” where parties, club nights, giant sports games, and crowded campuses are the norm.  However, living in a city isn’t for everyone – sometimes not even for people who already live there.

    Many students want a change of scenery when they go to university or college, including an entirely different place to live.  Plenty of people who grow up in a city environment decide that they would rather live somewhere with a slower pace and smaller population.  Since attending college or university often involves moving away from home anyway, it can make for a good opportunity to move to a smaller town or more rural area.

    Like any other choice of college or university, there are pros and cons to choosing a smaller school in a more rural area over a larger institution in a city.

    Pros

    There are lots of benefits to living in a small community, and many benefits to attending a smaller college or university:

    • Smaller towns are easier to navigate (and harder to get lost in), with fewer streets and smaller blocks. Often the “downtown” area will be primarily in a central location with the majority of shopping, entertainment, and restaurants within an easily walkable distance.  This can be convenient for running errands or attending events, especially for students who don’t own a vehicle.
    • Communities in small towns tend to be close, friendly, and supportive, which can be helpful for students living on their own for the first time. It is often easier to get to know your neighbours, your local store owners, and other students because you will see the same people regularly.
    • Rental and living costs are often much less expensive in small communities and rural areas. This means students who have a limited budget can get “more bang for their buck” when it comes to things like rental housing.

    Smaller colleges and universities — or more likely, satellite campuses to larger city-based universities —also offer a range of benefits to students:

    • Smaller class sizes mean that students have more opportunities to stand out by joining discussions and contributing to group projects. Having fewer students also means that it is easier for students to get one-on-one, face-to-face interactions with their teachers when they need assistance or want to discuss a course assignment in more detail.
    • There is often less competition for popular classes or activities in a smaller school with a smaller student population, which means students have a better chance of getting into the courses and clubs they want on the first try during registration periods.
    • Smaller colleges often have tighter student communities, as students will often share multiple courses each year with familiar faces and get to know the students in their program really well. This can make it easier for students to get to know their classmates and form strong friendships, especially for those who find large crowds and crowded places less than ideal for meeting new people.
    • These days colleges and satellite university campuses offer an education that is just as strong and in-depth as that offered at a larger school. They employ teachers and professors with the same high qualifications and expertise, and these educators in turn offer courses, research programs, and networking opportunities on par with big institutions.  Smaller schools also tend to be less expensive when it comes to tuition, residence fees, and other student expenses.

    Cons

    Before making a decision, there are a few downsides to take into consideration when it comes to moving to a small community to attend a smaller school:

    • Small colleges tend to have fewer school-owned and on-campus housing options, but in a smaller community there may be fewer off-campus rental opportunities, as well. Small towns are less likely to have large apartment complexes, instead offering a mix of small apartment buildings, townhouse rentals, and single rooms in shared houses.
    • Small towns also have fewer entertainment options both on and off campus. Small communities are less likely to have large movie theaters, shopping malls or sports events, and if you are a foodie who likes to visit a new restaurant every weekend, you’re likely to find the options lacking.  Smaller schools may not have much in the way of campus activities or sporting events, and fewer student clubs.  It is also likely that a smaller community will have limited or no public transit available, which can mean that students require a car to get around or do errands.
    • Small colleges might have limited course and program options to choose from, so it is important to make sure your chosen school offers what you want. This can mean limited flexibility for optional courses or program changes.

    Whether you move to a small town for college or stay in the big city will all depend on what you want out of your college experience.  Take the time to research your options and determine which option will give you the education and lifestyle you want!

     

    Sources

    CollegeRaptor. “Pros & Cons of Small Colleges.” https://www.collegeraptor.com/find-colleges/articles/college-search/pros-cons-small-colleges/

    SchoolFinder. “The Top 3 Reasons to Consider a Small College.” https://www.schoolfinder.com/Discover/Article/1/4877/The-Top-3-Reasons-to-Consider-a-Small-College

    Thaddaeus, Eze. “7 Top Smallest Universities in Canada.” Study Abroad Nations. https://studyabroadnations.com/smallest-universities-in-canada/

  • Comment dire non poliment, mais fermement

    De Mara Hurst

    Étant une personne qui aime faire plaisir aux gens, dire non n’est pas quelque chose que je fais facilement. Beaucoup d’entre nous ont le même problème. Vouloir aider nos proches semble naturel et nous ne réalisons que trop tard notre limite. Pour autant que nous voulions aider les autres, c’est impossible de le faire si on ne prend pas soin de soi d’abord. C’est pourquoi apprendre à dire non de manière aimable, mais ferme est une compétence très importante.

    Une question que l’on se pose souvent est « eh bien, pourquoi est-ce que je devrais dire non ? ». Bien que le discours profère que dire « oui » mène à des possibilités et au bonheur, dire « non » fait exactement la même chose ! Si vous aviez prévu d’aller au cinéma avec vos amis et que votre oncle vous demande de tondre sa pelouse au même moment, à qui donneriez-vous la priorité ? Dire « non » dans ce cas ne fait pas de vous une mauvaise personne, cela signifie seulement que vous accordez la priorité au divertissement et l’amitié dont vous avez besoin ce jour-là. Dire « non » vous permet de prendre soin de vous-même et de vos besoins, donc à devenir une meilleure personne.

    Maintenant, la partie difficile est de vraiment dire non. Dire non de façon polie, mais ferme demande quelques règles. La première est d’être ferme. Si vous dites non, vous devez le penser. En plus d’être ferme, vous devriez installer vos limites et vous assurer que la personne qui vous demande quelque chose les respecte. Enfin, restez poli et courtois. Ce n’est pas nécessaire de dire non de manière méchante ou brutale.

    Mais comment utiliser ces règles ? Un superbe exemple est de répondre à la question avec quelque chose comme : « je suis vraiment désolé, mais je dois dire non. Je ne peux pas le faire pour vous ». Bien entendu, ces mots ne fonctionnent pas en toute circonstance, mais c’est un bon début ! Dans certains cas, il peut se présenter une occasion pour laquelle vous pouvez faire quelques tâches, mais pas toutes. Dans ce cas, vous pouvez suivre les mêmes règles que celles décrites plus haut, en disant « je ne peux pas faire X, mais je serais très heureuse de vous aider en faisant Y ou Z ». Vous dites toujours non d’une façon aimable tout en établissant vos limites. N’oubliez pas que tout le monde devrait les respecter. S’il ne le fait pas, vous n’avez aucune raison de vous sentir coupable de dire non. En fait, vous ne devriez jamais vous sentir coupable de dire non parce que vous prenez soin de vous.

    Vous ne devriez pas avoir peur de dire non, ou l’éviter. Tout le monde le fait. En disant non, vous vous respectez et il n’y a pas de mal à ça. En fait, vous respecter vous-même est la clé du succès dans la vie. Comme l’a dit le président directeur, « la différence entre les gens prospères et les gens très prospères est que ces derniers disent non à presque tout ». Dire non signifie que vous vous donnez la priorité pour une fois et prendre soin de soi est quelque chose dont tout le monde a besoin. Tant que vous le faites de façon respectueuse, dire non peut être votre meilleur choix.

     

    Sources

    Alpert, Jonathan. “7 Tips for Saying No Effectively.” Inc. https://www.inc.com/jonathan-alpert/7-ways-to-say-no-to-someone-and-not-feel-bad-about-it.html

    Mendelsohn, Pamela. “The Importance of Saying ‘No’.” myTherapyNYC. https://mytherapynyc.com/importance-of-saying-no/

  • How to Politely Yet Assertively Say No

    How to Politely Yet Assertively Say No

    By Mara Hurst

    As a people-pleaser, the idea of saying no is not in my vocabulary. Many of us have the same issue. Wanting to help those around us is a seemingly natural instinct and we often do not realize when we are nearing our limit until it is too late. As much as we want to help those around us, it is impossible to care for others if you don’t care for yourself first. This is why learning how to say no in a kind, but assertive way is an extremely important skill.

    A widely asked question is, “Well, why should I say no?” Despite the pushed narrative that saying “yes” leads to opportunities and happiness, saying “no” can do the exact same thing! If you have plans to see movies with your friends, and your uncle asks you to mow his lawn at the same time, what would you prioritize? Saying “no” in that case doesn’t make you a bad person, it means that prioritizing fun and friendship is what you need that day! Saying no gives you the opportunity to take care of yourself and your needs, therefore allowing you to grow more as a person.

    Now for the daunting part, actually saying no. Saying no in a polite and assertive way follows some simple guidelines. The first is to be firm. If you are saying no, you have to mean it. On top of being firm, you should set your boundaries and make sure the person asking something of you is respecting these boundaries. Finally, remain polite and courteous. Saying no does not have to be mean or vicious.

    But, how do you use these guidelines? A fantastic example would be responding to their question with something like this: “I’m really sorry, I have to say no. I am unable to do this for you.” Now this phrasing will not work in every circumstance, but it is a great starting point! In some cases, you may be presented an opportunity where you are willing and capable to complete some tasks, but not all. In this circumstance you can follow the same guidelines as above, saying something like, “I can’t do X, but I am more than happy to do Y and Z.” You are still saying no in a kind manner, while setting your boundaries. Keep in mind that everyone should be respecting the boundaries that you put in place. If they do not respect these boundaries, then there is no reason to feel guilty for saying no. In fact, you should never feel guilty for saying no because you are caring for yourself.

    Saying no is nothing to be afraid of or avoid. Everyone in the world does it. Saying no means you are respecting yourself, and there is nothing wrong with that. In fact, respecting yourself is key to succeeding in life. To quote CEO Warren Buffett, “The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say no to almost everything.”  Saying no means prioritizing yourself for once and some self-care is what everyone needs. As long as you do it in a respectable way, saying no can be the best choice you can make.

     

    Sources

    Alpert, Jonathan. “7 Tips for Saying No Effectively.” Inc. https://www.inc.com/jonathan-alpert/7-ways-to-say-no-to-someone-and-not-feel-bad-about-it.html

    Mendelsohn, Pamela. “The Importance of Saying ‘No’.” myTherapyNYC. https://mytherapynyc.com/importance-of-saying-no/

  • Work-from-Home Jobs: A Glimpse into the Top 5 Opportunities that Await You

    Work-from-Home Jobs: A Glimpse into the Top 5 Opportunities that Await You

    The pandemic restrictions have given companies all over the world the chance to offer flexible work options for their employees. According to a study by Statistics Canada, almost 40% of Canadian jobs have telework feasibility, or what’s described as the degree to which Canadians can perform their jobs without having to be physically in the office.

    In fact, based on October 2021 data, the agency estimates that 4 million Canadians continue to work from home since the start of the pandemic despite the vaccination efforts and continuous implementation of COVID restrictions throughout the country.

    With this in mind, it’s an ideal time to look into employment opportunities that offer the flexibility of working from home in your own time, especially if you’re a full-time student. Let’s look at some of these possibilities:

    Digital Marketer

    Do you find yourself constantly scrolling through social media pages, thinking of ways how to promote products or services better? If you said yes, then a career as a digital marketer may be best suited for you. Attracting customers has become extremely challenging now that establishing a strong social media presence is a priority. To be a successful digital marketer, you have to be social media savvy and armed with all the tricks of the trade to create great buzz for your clients’ products and services. An advantage of this option is that you won’t be tied down to a regular 9-to-5 schedule because social media is on 24/7 and you can choose the time that works best for your schedule.

    Customer Service Agent

    If you have a knack for helping people then a job in the customer support industry is for you – and you can do it right at home! Customer service positions can vary from technical support to appointment booking. All you have to do is estimate your own skillsets and determine which avenue best matches you. If you like tinkering with computer or phone devices, you’ll fit right in with technical support. On the other hand, if you feel your forte is more organizing and scheduling, then appointment booking is where you’d belong. A lot of these jobs are available 24/7 so you have plenty to choose from.

    Proofreader

    If you’re the type who likes to devour works of literature, be it fiction, nonfiction, or academic, this option is likely the one that suits you best. Proofreading opportunities abound not just in Canada but worldwide as well. You can work in your own time as long as you meet the deadline requirement. Proofreading companies also usually will provide style guides so you know exactly what to look out for in the text. A wonderful perk of this is that you may get a chance to read works before they are even published, and who knows, you might come across a future Harry Potter series!

    Online Teacher

    If you have an inclination towards imparting knowledge, an online teacher sounds like the ideal opportunity for you. The subjects you teach can vary, although the most in demand these days is teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to Canadian newcomers or anyone outside of Canada who wants to learn English. If you intend to take the route of an ESL teacher, look into acquiring ESL training certifications: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), and Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL). The teaching level also varies, as students may range from middle school to university level. It’s definitely a great opportunity you can do from home, plus rewarding too!

    Freelance Writer

    An article on work-from-home jobs isn’t complete without this one! Freelance writing opportunities abound, and it’s up to you which subject you’re at most home with writing about! And there is a plethora of the type of writing you can choose from depending on the website: opinion, educational (like Jobs People Do!), informative, general news, finance, film, music, games, and technology. Meanwhile, there are also companies that offer Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM) writing services to clients for their products or services. Through these middle men, you’ll find yourself writing about a wide range of topics.

    The work-from-home industry will keep on growing, pandemic or no pandemic. So which of these options seem like the most suitable for you? Good luck in your job search!

     

    Sources

    Fernandez, Shannon. “8 amazing companies that let you teach English online from home.” Teachaway. https://www.teachaway.com/blog/8-amazing-companies-let-you-teach-english-online-from-home

    Indeed. “15 of the Best Remote Working Jobs: A Definitive Guide.” https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/best-remote-work-jobs

    Nixon, Geoff. “Widespread working from home will end at some point, won’t it? Maybe not.” CBC. https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/work-from-home-covid19-future-workers-wfh-1.6244944

    Omololu, Enoch. “9 Best Work From Home Jobs in Canada for 2022.” Savvy New Canadians. https://www.savvynewcanadians.com/work-from-home-jobs/

    Statistics Canada. “Labour Force Survey, October 2021.” https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/211105/dq211105a-eng.htm

    Statistics Canada. “Working from home in Canada: What have we learned so far?” https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/36-28-0001/2021010/article/00001-eng.htm

  • Conseils pour commencer une formation postsecondaire sans spécialité

    C’est assez courant de commencer une formation postsecondaire sans spécialité. En fait, 20 à 50 % de tous les étudiants commençant le postsecondaire sont indécis quant à leur spécialité. C’est si courant que des établissements universitaires s’attendent à ce que des étudiants y réfléchissent encore.

    Certaines écoles offrent des programmes « indécis » pour les étudiants de première année dans cette situation. Par exemple, l’université de Guelph, l’université d’Alberta et l’université York proposent de tels programmes. Ceux-ci permettent à ces étudiants de découvrir leur choix sans avoir à sélectionner une spécialité tout de suite.

    L’éducation n’est pas une course et chaque parcours sera différent au début et à la fin. Voici quelques conseils pour les étudiants postsecondaires qui n’ont pas encore choisi leur spécialité.

    1. L’introspection

    Aller à l’université est un nouveau départ ! Dans votre nouveau milieu, prenez un moment pour penser à ce que vous voulez y faire. Ça peut être difficile de réfléchir sur soi-même – ce n’est assurément pas agréable de confronter des choix de vie – mais voici quelques exemples :

    • Qu’est-ce que je veux réaliser pendant mes études postsecondaires ?
    • Qu’est-ce que je valorise dans l’obtention d’un certificat, d’un diplôme ou d’un niveau ?
    • Quelle sorte de milieu est-ce que je privilégie ?
    • Quelles compétences est-ce que je souhaite renforcer ?

    Ces questions n’ont pas besoin de réponses immédiates et elles ne sont pas faciles à trouver, mais elles peuvent fournir une direction vers une découverte de vous-même et de votre formation.

    Par exemple, circonscrire dans quel cadre vous souhaitez travailler, tel un bureau, vous aidera à déterminer quel domaine vous correspondrait le mieux.

    1. La découverte de cours facultatifs

    Votre période sans spécialité est une occasion de découvertes. Bien qu’une spécialité devienne nécessaire à terme, l’ajout de cours facultatifs peut rendre la démarche plus aisée en montrant aux étudiants les opportunités d’études.

    Prenez ce temps pour essayer des cours de domaines différents que vous êtes curieux de découvrir. La période de l’école secondaire ne donne pas toujours aux étudiants la chance d’essayer plus de sujets diversifiés comme l’archéologie, les langues ou la criminologie. Si vous le voulez, ces possibilités vous permettront de tâter le terrain pour voir ce qui vous correspond.

    Les établissements postsecondaires offrent beaucoup plus de sujets que le font les écoles secondaires, alors c’est difficile de savoir si un domaine vous convient lorsque vous n’avez pas eu la chance de l’explorer.

    Même si vous choisissez un cours facultatif et que finalement vous ne l’aimez pas, c’est quand même utile – chaque étape de cette période de découverte est importante.

    1. Les conversations avec un conseiller pédagogique

    Ce n’est pas par hasard si les établissements postsecondaires ont des conseillers pédagogiques : le parcours éducatif de chacun est différent et ils sont là pour répondre à vos questions et aux incertitudes que vous pourriez avoir.

    Les conseillers pédagogiques vous aideront sur un grand nombre de sujets reliés à votre formation, comme la planification de cours et de carrière. Ils contribuent à vous donner une meilleure idée de ce que vous souhaitez.

    L’une des utilisations de conseils pédagogiques est de vous aider à trouver votre spécialité. Même si vous en trouvez une, elle peut changer – et c’est tout à fait correct ! Entre 50 et 70 % d’étudiants modifient leur spécialité au moins une fois pendant leur formation. Le parcours postsecondaire consiste en diverses découvertes et révélations. C’est naturel que les choses changent au fur et à mesure que le temps passe et que vos découvertes s’accumulent.

    1. Le contact avec la population étudiante

    Étudier est important, mais ce n’est pas la seule raison d’être aux études. Les campus offrent des occasions aux étudiants pour le contact avec les autres et l’établissement lui-même. Les spécialités peuvent aider les étudiants à rencontrer des camarades ayant les mêmes idées, mais les clubs et les activités des établissements sont d’autres moyens de rencontrer d’autres camarades.

    Un autre avantage des clubs est qu’ils offrent aux étudiants des occasions de poste de direction dans un contexte sans risque. Les clubs doivent encore avoir un lieu de travail permettant aux étudiants d’apprendre à gérer des tâches comme dans un vrai milieu de travail.

    Des études démontrent que cette participation à toutes sortes de clubs postsecondaires est liée à des critères de réussite comme des améliorations de l’esprit critique, le développement personnel et le progrès scolaire.  Les clubs renforcent non seulement les liens avec d’autres camarades, mais ils consolident aussi vos propres compétences.

     

    Sources:

    “Choosing Your Program | Career Centre.” University of Toronto Mississauga, https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/careers/career-planning/career-planning-year/choosing-your-program. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.

    “How to Choose Your Program.” UniversityStudy.ca, https://www.universitystudy.ca/plan-for-university/how-to-choose-your-program/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.

    Miller, Benjamin. “Campus Clubs Offer a Profound Learning Experience Outside the Classroom.” University Affairs, 31 Aug. 2016, https://www.universityaffairs.ca/features/feature-article/campus-clubs-offer-profound-subtle-learning-experience/. Accessed 14 Jan. 2022.

    Scully, Allison. “Advising the Undecided: A Model for Engaging Students in the Major Exploration Process.” Advising in Canada, 24 Mar. 2020, https://advisingincanada.wordpress.com/2020/03/24/advising-the-undecided-a-model-for-engaging-students-in-the-major-exploration-process/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.

    “Undecided Major | Future Students | York University.” York University, https://futurestudents.yorku.ca/program/undecided-major. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.

    “Undeclared – Programs – University of Alberta.” University of Alberta, https://apps.admissions.ualberta.ca/programs/sc/sc010/undeclared. Accessed 12 Jan 2022.

    “Undeclared | Undergraduate Admission 2022.” University of Guelph, https://admission.uoguelph.ca/bcom/und. Accessed 12 Jan. 2022.

  • 5 Pointers to Ace that Zoom Interview

    5 Pointers to Ace that Zoom Interview

    With colleges and universities across Canada and the U.S. extending their remote learning mandates for all classes, it’s likely that this year’s graduates will find themselves going through the job interview process virtually as well. This is especially true for those companies or organizations who require multiple rounds of interviews where the screening or initial rounds are done remotely for time efficiency.

    While some may automatically think that online job interviews are less challenging than in-person ones, both scenarios require the same preparation and commitment to win over the interview panel. In this article, we’ll provide sure fire tips on how to have a successful online interview that would help launch your dream career.

    Let’s get started!

    Dress for the job.

    Sure, your class instructors in past semesters probably didn’t flinch every time you showed up to the online classes in your sweats, but your interviewers may not be as forgiving. So remember, just because it’s a remote job interview, it doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t dress for it like you would if it were a face-to-face interview. Dressing appropriately from head to toe will make a lot of difference in how you present yourself and give you that much-needed confidence during the interview. Be sure to keep your hair neat and away from your face. If you have the chance, have it styled professionally or make a quick trip to the salon. Your interviewer will appreciate the efforts you’ve made and you’re guaranteed to make a good first impression.

    Make eye contact.

    Online interviews make this suggestion a bit more difficult than usual, but not impossible. In a Zoom interview, be sure to opt for the gallery view so you have everyone visible on your screen and it makes it easier to look directly at the camera and at the individuals who are interviewing you. With an in-person interview, when you first reply to the question, ideally, you look directly at the person who asked the question, and then look at the others as you go through your response. In an online interview, what you can do, is acknowledge the person who posed the query by mentioning their name and then continue with your response. This will show you’re paying attention and you’re completely engaged with the interview process.

    Create a professional environment.

    Your choice in where to have the interview may be limited to your own room (where you can block off everyone else’s access for the time being) or accessible rooms like the living room or the dining room. However, this doesn’t mean that a professional environment is not doable. If you can only do it in an accessible room, have open communication with the people who live with you and tell them to make themselves as scarce as they can during your interview schedule. Choose a spot in that area where you feel most comfortable where the background is something you can regularly see in offices, like a landscape painting or a series of vases.

    Practice online interview etiquette.

    If you have to do the interview in a common area, be sure to quickly click on the mute button if someone accidentally walks by and asks you a question. Politely say you’re doing an interview instead of shutting them down completely. If there are background noises, like a dog barking, click on the mute button if it’s not your turn to speak. This way, you’re minimizing the distraction caused by the background noises. In the same way, don’t be scared to speak out if you’re unable to hear the interviewers’ questions clearly. A simple and polite request to repeat the questions being asked will go a long way, instead of trying to answer something that you only half understood.

    Do your research.

    Whether it’s online or face-to-face, doing your research prior to the interview is a must. Learn about the company beforehand by reading through their website. Go through the careers page and absorb the details of the job description of the position you’re applying for as much as you can. A good gauge on learning more about a company or organization is through their social media, as those accounts are updated regularly. If you can mention something that recently went on their pages, like a fundraising event, during your interview, it will score you points with your interviewers.

    An online job interview may seem constraining at first, but it’s still actually a great opportunity for you to connect with your interviewers and get a feel of the work environment. Consider the suggestions above and you’ll increase your chances of landing the job you have in mind.

     

    Sources

    Indeed. “18 Tips for Succeeding During Your Zoom Interview.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/zoom-interview

    Marcellus, Sibile. “The worst mistake you can make on a Zoom job interview: ‘It’s the first thing that occurs and it never goes well’.” Yahoo! Finance. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/the-worst-mistake-you-can-make-on-a-zoom-job-interview-its-the-first-thing-that-occurs-and-it-never-goes-well-215400975.html

    Study International. “As the Omicron variant hits US and Canada, universities move to virtual learning once more.” https://www.studyinternational.com/news/omicron-variant-us-and-canada/

  • Où est-ce que je devrais faire mes études ? Une liste des meilleures universités canadiennes en 2022

    De Olivia Condlln-Wilby

    Beaucoup d’étudiants élaborent la prochaine étape de leur parcours – que ce soit entamer leur formation postsecondaire, entrer sur le marché du travail ou prendre un peu de temps pour y réfléchir. Quelle que soit la direction que vous choisissiez, c’est normal de se sentir débordé par l’avenir – surtout lorsque l’on regarde tout ce qui s’est passé dans le monde ces deux dernières années. Vous vous demandez peut-être « que réserve 2022 pour les étudiants ? » ou « comment puis-je prendre une décision dans de telles circonstances ? » Cet article vise à vous fournir quelques réponses et vous aider à connaître les possibilités postsecondaires à votre disposition. Vous pouvez l’utiliser comme guide pour vous avancer dans votre parcours universitaire.

    1. L’université Simon Fraser – Burnaby, Colombie-Britannique

    Selon Maclean’s, l’université Simon Fraser (SFU) a une très bonne réputation auprès du public, la satisfaction des étudiants et son accès aux bourses d’études. Pour les étudiants intéressés par les sports, il convient de souligner que plusieurs médaillés d’or olympiques – y compris Justin Kripps et Hayley Wickenheiser – sont passés par SFU. En plus, c’est la première et la seule université au Canada à intégrer la National Collegiate Athletic Association.

    Pour le côté enseignement universitaire, l’université offre un grand éventail de programmes. Les étudiants peuvent étudier en éducation, en gestion d’entreprises entre autres. La SFU est l’une des meilleures universités de recherche au Canada.

    1. L’université de Victoria – Victoria, Colombie-Britannique

    L’université de Victoria (UVic) est réputée pour l’exigence de ses recherches, de ses facultés et de son enseignement. Elle est parmi les meilleures universités en Amérique du Nord pour ses collaborations de recherches internationales et son incidence scientifique. En outre, elle abrite des organismes de recherches prestigieux comme Ocean Networks Canada et le Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions. Si un diplôme en science vous tente, l’UVic pourrait être parfaite pour vous.

    L’université est aussi reconnue pour fournir des programmes amérindiens de qualité. Depuis 2018, elle a toujours été nommée premier établissement pour la valorisation amérindienne. Les étudiants peuvent choisir d’effectuer un programme joint en droit commun canadien et en système juridique des Premières Nations, obtenant ainsi deux diplômes professionnels. C’est le seul tel programme dans le monde.

    1. L’université de Waterloo – Waterloo, Ontario

    L’université de Waterloo (UW) se distingue par sa possibilité de placer les étudiants en recherche d’emploi. Ils ont la chance de transformer ce qu’ils apprennent en expérience de travail avec des emplois co-op et le service communautaire tout en nouant des contacts avec de futurs employeurs, des responsables d’industrie et des chercheurs professionnels.

    L’établissement a un réseau de plus de 7 000 employeurs – le plus grand de n’importe quelle université en Amérique du Nord. Les étudiants peuvent effectuer de nombreuses périodes de travail payé, augmentant leur expérience dans leur domaine et réduisant potentiellement leurs dettes étudiantes du même coup. En 2022, l’UW a le plus grand pourcentage d’étudiants diplômés ayant un emploi, au Canada.

    1. L’université de Guelph – Guelph, Ontario

    L’université de Guelph (UG) offre un grand choix de programmes académiques, y compris des diplômes prestigieux de Justice and Legal Studies et Sport and Event Management. Elle est peut-être plus connue pour ses programmes scientifiques, surtout les sciences biomédicales et le cycle supérieur en sciences vétérinaires. En outre, les recherches de l’université se concentrent sur la sécurité alimentaire, la protection de l’environnement et le développement durable. Si vous envisagez une carrière en agriculture, en médecine ou en zootechnie, cet établissement est un très bon choix.

    1. L’université Carleton – Ottawa, Ontario

    L’université Carleton offre des programmes très appréciés en journalisme, en génie et en sciences cognitives. Cependant, son atout le plus important est son accès aux organismes publics, aux ONG locales et aux entreprises internationales. Beaucoup d’étudiants obtiennent des emplois co-op sur la colline du Parlement, y compris dans l’administration et les politiques. D’autres travaillent pour des entreprises d’informatique, des laboratoires, des organes de presse et des conseils scolaires.

    Pour les étudiants qui prévoient une carrière en politique ou en politiques gouvernementales, suivre un programme à l’université Carleton les place au centre des expériences de travail et de bénévolat, des contacts professionnels et des possibilités de recherches.

     

    Sources

    Campbell, T. (2021, October 22nd). 2022 Maclean’s University Rankings: Comprehensive Schools. Maclean’s. https://www.schoolfinder.com/Discover/Article/27/5625/2022-Macleans-University-Rankings-Comprehensive-Schools

    Carleton University. (2022). Co-operative Education. https://carleton.ca/co-op/

    Dwyer, M. (2021, October 7th). Maclean’s University Rankings 2022: Our Methodology. Maclean’s. https://www.macleans.ca/education/macleans-university-rankings-2022-our-methodology/

    Maclean’s. (2022). Carleton University. https://www.macleans.ca/schools/carleton-university/

    Maclean’s. (2022). University of Guelph. https://www.macleans.ca/schools/university-of-guelph/

    QS TopUniversities. (2022). University of Guelph. https://www.topuniversities.com/universities/university-guelph

    QS TopUniversities. (2022). University of Victoria (UVic). https://www.topuniversities.com/universities/university-victoria-uvic#profile-university

    Simon Fraser University. (n.d.). SFU Olympians. https://athletics.sfu.ca/sports/2015/4/25/Clan%20Olympians.aspx

    Simon Fraser University. (n.d.). Who We Are. https://www.sfu.ca/about/whoweare.html

    University of Victoria. (n.d.). Joint Degree Program in Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders (JD/JID). https://www.uvic.ca/law/admissions/jidadmissions/index.php

    University of Waterloo. (n.d.). Undergraduate Programs: Co-Op and Careers. https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/co-op