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Category: Campus Life

  • Building Your Research Skills in University

    Building Your Research Skills in University

    For many students research can seem like a chore. In truth, it is less of a chore and even at times a joy when mastered. The best way to make things easier is to become as familiar with your resources as possible; this means sifting through university library and in-class resources while seeking out your own as well. So let’s break it down!

    University Resources

    Each university and college has a library website that gives students access to databases and journals for essay and exam research. Here are the top ones for easy access and widespread research:

    Academic Search Premier – A multidisciplinary database with over 4,600 entire-text journals, it’s hard not to find what you need for any paper whether its Political Science, History, Sciences or Literature. Some PDF files go further back than 1975 and there are plenty of searchable cite references. Some titles are peer-reviewed and Academic Search makes citing in papers fairly easy and thorough.

    JSTOR – While this database covers all manners of topics it is really best for the humanities. Think Anthropology, African-American studies and History. Coverage spans from the nearly the beginning of a particular volume to the most current issue. But this database isn’t just for articles, but rather also for graphs, photographs and other images. Think of this database as a more creative version of Academic Search.

     

    Good Old Fashioned Library Books – Most papers require you to have at least one cited book source rather than strictly all online sources. So get to that massive quiet building on campus and crack a book. Numerous dictionaries, thesauruses and encyclopaedias can be found there and the atmosphere helps a lot with putting students in the research frame of mind. Also, seeing a book visually up-close can really help with concentration. Screens can dull the process.
    Personal Resources

    Google Scholar – This one is free so you don’t need your university’s power for this one. Google Scholar is not the best, but it’s quick and easily accessible. Find a small group of books, preprints, peer-reviewed papers and technical reports for some quick research. This one is best used as a clue to where to find bigger research sources. It is also handy for annotated bibliography assignments. Google Scholar is not the ultimate tool, but it’s great in a pinch.

    Your Class Notes – This may seem like a university research source, but actually its attributes are dependant on your own skills. Take good notes and the resource is going to be most profitable for you. Find ways to make note taking easy and productive for your particular mind; highlight and add personal thoughts when they come to you. Your essay writing will be that much more alive, in-depth and well thought out.

  • Best Books to Read Before University

    Best Books to Read Before University

    Here is a little heads up about university: you will have to read A LOT. More than that, you will have to write a lot. There will be essays expected in nearly every subject and some previous literary knowledge can really come in handy. It not only helps make you sound more experienced and knowledgeable in your essay writing, but will help with in-class discussions and group work. There are plenty of different books to not only take advantage of but truly enjoy. Here are a few to start you off on the path to being the smartest and most well read freshman in the room:

    A Room of One’s Own – Virginia Woolf

    Ms. Woolf really knew how to say the things that lie deep in one’s mind. A Room of One’s Own is an insightful and eloquently written long essay that explores feminist themes on literal and figural space for women writers within a largely male dominated arena. It is based on a series of university lectures Woolf gave, and is perfect for getting the mind thinking about feminist issues and autonomy. Especially consider tackling this one if you are heading into Women’s Studies, English, Philosophy, Psychology or Political Science.

    The Bell Jar – Sylvia Plath

    Plath’s brain is a fascinating place and she has penned some truly great work. The Bell Jar is arguably Plath at the height of her brilliance. A look at mental illness, anxiety and depression, its attributes for students lie in the complex themes often mulled over by Plath and truly many people every day. It is very dark, yes, but professors in university will be impressed at your knowledge and its many psychological themes and strong English will make its way into your paper writing when school begins.

    The Armies of the Night – Norman Mailer

    You want to talk about great thinkers and writers? Look up Norman Mailer. The amazing (although at times not the most politically correct and socially acceptable) writer was at the forefront of the New Journalism movement and knew how to combine non-fictional reporting with creative-form writing. The Armies of the Night is a work of art about the 1967 March on the Pentagon. Perfect for those interested in either politics, 1960s culture or historical figures, this book is for both the creative and the scientific. Chock full of deep thoughts and great one-liners, Mailer is a quotable entity if there ever was one and not a single professor is unaware of his credentials. Read this one.

    Just Kids – Patti Smith

    There are many different kinds of brilliance, and artistic brilliance is a heavy-hitter. For inspiration and a truly stunning example of impeccable poetry read rocker Patti Smith’s Just Kids. A memoir about her and former lover and life-long friend photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, Just Kids is not only a love letter to a soul mate but a love letter to muses, different art forms and the process and hard times of the artist. It’s not enough to want to learn in order to achieve a career, you should also want to have passion for that learning. Smith is all about passion and it’s infectious.

  • Why you deserve a break – how to handle when your world seems overwhelming

    Why you deserve a break – how to handle when your world seems overwhelming

    You deserve a break. At times, life can be engulfing and chaotic. When school, a job, relationships, family, sports or taking part in other things you enjoy come into play, it can be a little stressful to try to maintain an even balance.

    Sometimes, breaking down or stressing yourself out may seem like the best “solution” when your world is overwhelming. Although, the best you can possibly do is to take a break. You may be saying to yourself, “but I have no time to take a break” or “I don’t even know what to do if I take a break”, these are common things we say to ourselves when we are overwhelmed with the situation on hand. All you need is thirty minutes to yourself to feel more balanced and in control of your world.

    Whether you are super overwhelmed or just need an idea for a break, here are a few things to try:

    You are only one person: This isn’t much of something to try however a friendly reminder. Remember that your physical, mental and emotional health is far more important than what you are overwhelmed with. You are only one person and you can only accomplish so much. Take things on one at a time and do only as much as you can handle. You cannot focus all your time and energy into things that are giving you stress; you need to take time for yourself.

    Remember this is only temporary: Being in an overwhelming part of your life or situation, can seem like it is going to last forever. This is not true. Although you have a lot on your plate right now, try to remember that this is only temporary and will be over sooner than you know it. This too shall pass.

    Breathe: Find a quiet, empty room to go into. Sit or lay down on the ground and take deep breaths. Focus on your breathing by breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. This helps you to calm down and to be truly present. You are able to focus on your current state and allow the stress out. Turning the lights off, lighting a candle or turning on a lamp, listening to some soft music or being in still silence may contribute to relaxation as well.

    Spend time with a friend: Friends are great to turn to when you need to take a break or relax. Spending time with them can help you forget about everything that is going on at the moment. Even if it is just for a couple of hours, friends are a great way to cheer yourself up and to take time away from your stressors.

    Dance: What song makes you want to break out into dance and sing your heart out? Put that song on and do just that. Taking a dance break can certainly make you happier and take some of the stress out.

    Do something you enjoy: Pick up something you haven’t done in a while whether it’s working out, writing, reading, watching a movie, swimming, going for a walk, or even simply watching a funny YouTube video. It’s hard to take time for yourself when your life seems overwhelming. Taking thirty minutes to an hour out of your day to dedicate it to doing something you enjoy, can make your day a little less stressful and hectic.

    Go outside: It may be daunting to go outside on a cold, wintery day or during the hot summer, however, going outside may just be your best bet. If you have been held up inside for a while, it can definitely be a good thing to go outside for a little while. It gives you the feeling of freedom and gives you a breath of fresh air, literally. Even going for a walk around the block to give yourself a break, can bring you back feeling energized and better than before.

    Your world might seem overwhelming at the moment but take thirty minutes to yourself. However, what way you choose to take a break,that is up to you.

     Written By Leah Butler

  • Every Day Sexism and Where it can Happen

    Every Day Sexism and Where it can Happen

    Sexism is such a constant and important topic in our society, and while university settings are striving to be more equal on the gender scale there is still every day sexism to watch out for. It is important to note that this can be the case for either gender. More women are attending university and graduating now than men, so the schooling system holds plenty of potential for equal gender issues.

    Double Standards

    The double standards based on gender in today’s society are astronomical. Perhaps a common one is ‘she’s promiscuous’ and ‘he’s a stud’ aspect of social interaction. It is no secret that schools often thrive on gossip and these settings include a certain level of party and dating culture. Women will be put down for being flirty or open about their experiences whereas men will be applauded for it. A good way to fight this stigma is to address that it’s a double standard as soon as it is brought up. Create a dialogue about it and approach the gossipers.

    Language

    Derogatory terms to describe women have become so common in our every day language that both men and women say them often and freely without much thought. This is language that promotes the double standards talked about above, and oddly even though they are often feminine pronouns people often use the same words to negatively speak about certain men as well. Thinking before you say anything out loud is important- don’t follow the rest of the crowd by using language that puts down either gender.

    Prejudice

    Assumptions about people based solely on their gender such as sloppiness, integrity and domestic ability are committed by both genders constantly. It is so easy to be prejudiced based on years of media and society perpetuated sexism. If you catch yourself assuming something about someone based on his or her appearance acknowledge that you are being prejudiced in that moment and make an effort to find the truth about that person. You will find that slowly but surely you will be able to condition yourself to disregard appearance and even gender to a certain degree.

    Education

    For years female historical figures were not taught about in schools as much as male ones and dress codes have forced genders into a specific bubble that they may not feel comfortable with. A lot of this is simply based on tradition, but school is meant to be a place of open dialogue so address this sexism head on. Tradition does not always have a place in contemporary education.

  • Say Goodbye to Stress the Natural Way

    Say Goodbye to Stress the Natural Way

    As much as we deny it, life is not always a bed of roses. We are bound to come across difficulties here and there—whether it is a tough situation at school, at home, or at our part-time work. Some of us can cope with the adversity fine without any outside help, but some of us may need more than the usual stress relievers, like going out with friends for a fun movie or spending quality time with our significant other, to take the edge off.

    The good news is that we actually can beat stress without resorting to pharmaceuticals. There are natural ways to fight the anxiety. But of course, different things work for different people. Below are some good non-pharmaceutical alternatives to try out:

    Lavender

    Lavender is more than an ingredient that is popular in scented candles, perfume, and bathroom soaps. It is a scent that can promote calmness in the brain, therefore relieving stress. The most popular way to do so is via essential oil which you can put a bit of directly in your collarbone or your temple. If you do not agree to this method, an alternative is to decorate your room with lavender so the scent can permeate the room.

    Herbal Tea

    Most people believe that tea is only good for digestion or as a good pairing with cookies (or biscuits as the Brits would like to say). However, there are some types that can actually help decrease your anxious moods. These include green, mint, basil, sage, rosemary, and chamomile. The latter is believed to be an excellent way to combat insomnia too—the natural way!

    Food with Healthy Fats and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    A common way that some people deal with stress is to reach out for the sweets and caffeine. Doing so will make things worse. Scientists believe that eating food with healthy fats and Omega-3 fatty acids is the way to go to put stress in the corner. This includes salmon, tuna, and sardines. Food with some healthy fats include nuts, seeds and avocados.

    Food High in Vitamin B

    Getting the right amount of nutrients when you are feeling anxious is extremely important so that your health is taken care of. A healthy alternative to candies and chocolates to get you motivated are food which are high in B vitamins like whole grains, beans, peas, spinach, kale, blackstrap molasses, potatoes, bananas, and legumes.

    Yoga

    Yoga sessions can teach you a variety of breathing exercises that promote calmness and relaxation. In turn, you can apply these breathing techniques when you are meditating or even when you find yourself right smack dab in the middle of a bad situation. Stretching during yoga sessions also is ideal when you want to kick stress out of your life. However, make sure that you don’t overstretch more than your body can physically handle or else you will find yourself combating an injury.

    Massage

    Getting a massage can help loosen up those knotted muscles in your body that will in turn lead to a more relaxed, less anxious you. Be sure to specify to the massage therapist whether you bruise or hurt easily or not so they can adjust the type of massage they can give you.

    Bubble Bath

    Taking a bubble bath is not just good for your skin, it can be incredibly be relaxing and calming too. Choose a bubble bath soap that generates the most positive effect in you like strawberry or kiwi and you will be stress-free soon enough!

    Feel-good Movies

    Movies are not just for entertainment or to occupy your idle time, but they can actually help alleviate your anxiety and uplift your spirits. Of course, steer clear of bleak movies as these can only make things worse. Instead, go for movies that you love to watch over and over again—this can be action movies like the first “Die Hard,” a classic like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” a dramedy like “The Devil Wears Prada,” or a rom-com like “Trainwreck.” Watch it alone or with company.

  • Music and Your Study Habits – Do They Go Together?

    Music and Your Study Habits – Do They Go Together?

    Many of us have our own study habits, whether it is creating outlines, doing mock tests, establishing study groups, or straight-out reading notes and textbooks. Some of us might be particularly keen of studying while playing music on full blast.

    Much has been said about classical music particularly that of Mozart’s, being the ideal music when you are busy immersing yourself in your textbooks and trying to visualize yourself acing your exams. It is widely believed that Mozart will make people smart, just by listening to him; even pregnant mothers play Mozart thinking their babies will grow up more intelligent. There is, of course, some truth to this as it is not some belief that was created out of thin air. So how this did start?

    It was in 1993 when researchers Gordon Shaw, Frances Rauscher, and Katherine Ky did an experiment with 36 student-participants whom they divided into three groups: one group listened to Mozart, another one listened to “self-hypnosis” spiel, and the third one remained in total silence. Afterward, the trio conducted a spatial test—and the group which listened to Mozart showed a significantly higher IQ points of 8 to 9 compared to the two other groups. The trio eventually published their study, and thus the term “Mozart effect” was born.
    Other scientists began to offer their insight that seemed to strengthen the trio’s findings. These scientists said music does help stimulate the brain, improving cognitive function as a result. However, it should be noted that in that particular experiment, the other two groups were not made to listen to music, so other scientists contend that it might not matter which type of music can have a positive neurobiological effect, rather music in general.

    There might be no denying though of the powerful effects of Mozart. CBS News recently released a story that an Italian winemaker based in Tuscany attest that his grapes grow bigger if he pumps Mozart into his vineyard.

    Scientists from Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan suggest that if you are going to incorporate music into your studies, it may be best to go for music which you feel ambivalent toward to. This means any type of music you don’t necessarily strongly like or dislike.

    On the other hand, researchers from the Cambridge Sound Management believe that music without lyrics is best if you plan to listen to music while you study because lyrics can be incredibly distracting and deters comprehension. This means the soundtrack to the blockbuster musical “Hamilton” is definitely out of the question. Instead, go for something instrumental. An example of this especially designed instrumental music to help you study can be found in YouTube—just search for Alpha Waves Study Music.

    Canadian researchers, meanwhile, said that it is good to listen to up-tempo music when you are studying as it stimulates the brain. This can mean music with catchy lyrics and beats that can make you get up and dance—although maybe probably not a good idea if you have pages and pages to read on your textbooks.

    Others say that ambient sounds like the rain or waterfalls or spring helps you study better. This type of music is also recommended for those who have difficulty sleeping, so it does cover the relaxation bit. Other researchers say that video game soundtracks can be beneficial to those who are studying as this type of music is designed to energize the listener without necessarily distracting him or her to the task at hand.

    Yet other scientists say that it does not matter which type of music you listen to when studying, but the consistency in the tone. They believe that music that goes soft then goes loud then goes soft again then goes loud again is not ideal for studying.

    If you have not tried to include listening to music while studying, then maybe give the pointers above a try. However, if you are already an expert multi-tasker and can study even with the loudest heavy metal music on, then go for it. Whatever music best works for you, it should not matter.

  • Am I in a Toxic Relationship?

    Am I in a Toxic Relationship?

    Throughout our lives, we build plenty of relationships with the people around us. Whether they are romantic relationships, friendships, or professional relationships, we build and develop connections with the people in our lives on a daily basis. But what happens when those relationships are no longer healthy? What if being involved in those relationships does more harm than good to our mental or physical health?  We now find ourselves involved in a toxic relationship. In a Liz Claiborne Inc. study conducted by Teenage Research Unlimited in 2005, it was reported that 11% of teens in a relationship have been physically hit by their partner- a number that increased to 12% in 2006. Of course, a toxic relationship is not necessarily always physical harm. In the same study, it was revealed 13% of teens in a relationship reported to have experienced continuous verbal abuse from their partner while in the relationship, a number which went up to 16% in 2006.

    One of the most shocking realities of a toxic relationship is that many times, we are completely unaware the relationship has become unhealthy. We become so desensitized to the mistreatment we are receiving, we begin to view it as “normal”, or even worse, we start to believe it’s the kind of treatment we deserve. No one deserves to be in a relationship that makes them feel bad about themselves, causes them physical or mental harm, feel pressured into doing something they are uncomfortable with, or experience demoralizing words or actions.

    Even when we do recognize the relationship has grown toxic, often times it feels next to impossible to free ourselves from its captivity. So, what can we do?

    The first step to breaking free from a toxic relationship is being able to identify one. Here are a few warning signs you should be on the lookout for. (Please note these are just a handful of the many existing warning signs):

    • You don’t feel like you’re good enough or that it isn’t enough to just be yourself.
    • They make you feel uncomfortable, or pressure you.
    • They call you names.
    • They physically hit you *Be very aware of language such as; “it will never happen again.” or “you made me do it.” These are classic lines abusers use to keep the partner stuck in the toxic relationship.*
    • They threaten to physically harm you.
    • They threaten to hurt you or themselves if you leave the relationship.
    • They blame you for everything.
    • They lie to, cheat on or ignore you.
    • They don’t consider your feelings.
    • You feel excluded.
    • They prevent you from talking to other friends or your family members.
    • They’re judgmental of you.
    • They won’t work on improving your relationship.

    Identifying a toxic relationship is your first step to freedom. The next step is finding the courage to leave the relationship, and do so safely and efficiently. These are a few guidelines in helping you do so:

    • Understand that you deserve better than the treatment you are receiving.
    • Make a plan to end the relationship (and then, follow through with it).
    • End contact with them. Delete or block their number from your phone, and remove them from social media. This barrier will not only prevent them from contacting you, it will take away the temptation for you to reach out to them.
    • Stay strong. They may try to attempt to lure you back into the relationship, remember why you deserve a healthy relationship.
    • Talk to someone you trust. Finding support and guidance during this time can be provide a great deal of encouragement.
    • Know you are making the right decision.
    • If you feel as though your safety is endangered, contact the police immediately.

    It is important to remember toxicity can develop in relationships of any age, race, or sexuality. If you feel as though you may be in a toxic relationship, talk to someone you trust. Always remember, if it’s abuse, it isn’t love.

    Sources:

    http://www.loveisrespect.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/liz-claiborne-2007-tech-relationship-abuse.pdf

    http://www.teensagainstabuse.org/index.php?q=statistics

    http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/10-signs-toxic-friend-that-youve-probably-never-realised.html

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ann-davis/23-warning-signs-of-a-tox_b_9645474.html

    http://www.canadianliving.com/life-and-relationships/relationships/article/how-to-let-go-of-a-toxic-relationship

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/liking-the-child-you-love/201412/three-steps-getting-out-toxic-relationship-0

  • Back to School Blues – Returning to Your Studies after Vacation

    Back to School Blues – Returning to Your Studies after Vacation

    When school season begins again, it’s often a practice to ruminate and look back on the summer vacation we had. At times, if we had too much fun during that particular period, it may be hard to get out of that mindset.

    For example, the camp you went to this year made you feel like it was your second home and you made a lot of great new friends or the foreign country you visited was full of breathtaking sceneries; you still want to be there! Or it could be you enjoyed sleeping in on weekdays and meeting up with your friends at the mall or at the park every day to simply chill out without a care in the world. You will sorely miss any of these things once it’s back to hitting the books.

    The good news is this initial feeling is normal, so you don’t have to feel guilty about it at all. The bad news is you really have to find a way to work around it—otherwise, you would end up lagging behind everyone else during  the whole school term. So how exactly do you get yourself into school mode when you are still yearning to be in vacation mode? Here are a few tips to get you started.

    Set your goals.

    Do a self-evaluation, and make a list of what you would like to accomplish this year. It is a good idea to analyze both your weak and strong points, so you can focus on what you need to do. For instance, you were so close to getting a D in Algebra last year, and this year, you want to be the best in your Trigonometry class. Meanwhile, if you did so well in Physics last year, you may want to look into being a tutor for anyone who might need help with that.

    Take it easy.

    It is okay to feel a bit lethargic when getting back into your school routine, so just ease into it. This means allowing yourself some leg room, such as giving yourself occasional breaks when you do your homework or slowly taking the lead on projects or limiting your participation in extracurricular activities. Do a self-assessment on what you can handle and thoroughly evaluate your schedule first before taking on multiple tasks. It is not helpful to force yourself in taking more balls that you can throw and ending up dropping all of them in the long run.

    Seek help from other students.

    If you find yourself being overwhelmed with some of the subjects you are taking for the term, feel free to reach out to your fellow students who might be able to lend you a hand. Some may be looking into starting tutoring opportunities so that’s a good way for you to learn. Meanwhile, some may be struggling with the same subjects as you are, and a good way for all of you to overcome the challenges is to form a study group so you can all learn together.

    Avoid distractions so you can focus, focus, focus.

    During the summer holidays, it was perfectly fine for you to have your mobile phone by your side all the time so you can quickly respond to calls and texts or go online to your social networking accounts. However, now that school time is here again, it is time for you to practice self-discipline and limit your time for your devices. Don’t listen to the FOMO voice inside your head. Now this doesn’t mean you should ignore everyone who tries to get in touch with you. It just means you just need to prioritize and set specific times to go online so it does not distract you from your studies.

    Picking up the books again is not easy after a summer vacation. However, think of your vacation as much needed time to refresh and assess your goals, including your academic goals. By following the suggestions above, you will be in complete school mode in a short time.

    SOURCES:

    http://us.reachout.com/facts/factsheet/going-back-to-school-after-break

    http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/back-to-school.html#

    http://www.parentfurther.com.php53-8.dfw1-2.websitetestlink.com/resources/enewsletter/archive/getting-back-into-school-routine

  • Post-secondary Education in Northern Manitoba

    Post-secondary Education in Northern Manitoba

    Getting an advanced education can be challenging, even in areas where students have easy access to all of the resources needed. In remote areas with small populations, such as in northern Manitoba, finding accessible resources for learning can prove even more difficult. However, several programs and institutions are helping to bring post-secondary education even to the most remote parts of the province.

    In much of Canada, universities and colleges tend to be located in large towns or cities, mainly because that is where the people are. Students from small communities can normally complete much of their early schooling close to home, but if they want to continue their education, they have to move to another city. In Manitoba, that normally means moving to Winnipeg since about half of the population lives in the capital city. Some of the smaller cities, such as Brandon, have opportunities for post-secondary education, but the program choices are much greater in Winnipeg.

    The University College of the North has fairly large schools in The Pas and Thompson, as well as smaller centres in places like Churchill and Flin Flon and also some First Nations reserves. Many different programs are available through the school, including education, health, English literature studies, and trades. With programs like these, many students can stay in their home communities and still learn what they need in order to pursue a specific career path.

    Distance education is also making a difference in northern Manitoba. Many universities and colleges offer students the option of taking their courses online rather than in classrooms, and video conferencing is becoming more common in this digital age. Students and instructors from the north can talk with people from colleges and universities in the south and learn new techniques or just discuss the issues they are facing.

    Access to resources is a major issue for many students, even in big cities. Have you ever needed a book or magazine but couldn’t find it or wanted to use a database that you couldn’t get into? In cities, most people can just go to another library or visit a university to find what they need. In remote northern communities, however, students have to find other options. One of the ways that people have been developing northern education is through access to computer programs, online databases, and library catalogues.

    For example, the Manitoba government has developed a software library which allows people to borrow and test programs to assess their usefulness. Other programs have also helped to make it easier for students and instructors to get what they need for their courses.

    If you live in northern Manitoba, you might already know how hard it can be to get an education beyond high school, and sometimes even that can be difficult. However, some of the established programs and new initiatives are helping to make it easier to get a post-secondary education without ever leaving home.

    Sources:

    The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials. “Postsecondary Education in Manitoba.” http://www.cicic.ca/1200/Postsecondary-education-in-Manitoba/index.canada.

    Government of Manitoba. “Advanced Learning Division.” http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/ald/index.html.

    Government of Manitoba. Student Services. “Rural and Northern Services Initiative.” http://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/specedu/rndi/index.html.

    University College of the North. “The Pas Campus.” https://www.ucn.ca/sites/studentdevelopment/Locations/Pages/The-Pas-Campus.aspx.

    University College of the North. “Thompson Campus.” https://www.ucn.ca/sites/studentdevelopment/Locations/Pages/Thompson-Campus.aspx.

    University College of the North. “Why Choose UCN.” https://www.ucn.ca/aboutucn/whychooseucn/Pages/Why-Choose-UCN.aspx.

  • Career Advice for Up and Coming Journalists

    Career Advice for Up and Coming Journalists

    Ah, the journalist. One of the only career paths people assume you’re going down when they find out that you’re an English major. Or, heaven forbid, if you’re studying writing. Journalism is tricky. If you’re familiar with John Oliver (or just basic updates on print media) then you know the industry is suffering-not just with job and budget cuts but also with this faux-journalism that the millennials seem to have gravitated towards. The age of “listicles” and cute puppy gifs are in lieu of legitimate news stories that matter to the masses. It’s because of these hiccups and miscommunications in the industry that people don’t seem to be taking journalism seriously anymore. Or, if you’re like me, they find out that you’re on a school paper and immediately assume that you’re working on ways to expand your social media presence. Everything needs to be an Instagram post. When it comes to succeeding in the journalism field, at least at this level, there are a few things you should know:

    From my experience, you can’t be afraid of investigating or being negative. A student paper can live under the assumption that you’ll promote every club or praise every performance. That’s not how this works. And it’s okay to upset people so long as you’re justified and not unnecessarily cruel (and have the facts and research to back up your statements). But, I can’t stress it enough: part of being a serious journalist is stepping on the toes of those who are used to having their shoes shined. You have a job to do. It’s okay to get your hands dirty and ask the tough questions.

    Remain true to the craft. In the digital age, things have taken a serious turn for the worse with some outlets focusing solely on gossip or the colour of Kim Kardashian’s bikini. But to be a serious journalist is to remain true to the practice. In the face of complaints and arguments, it’s important to stick to your guns and hold your integrity close. Everyone assumes that young journalists don’t take the craft seriously or that they can bend the rules more easily because, hey, we’re kids; prove them wrong.

    One of the biggest and final pieces of advice I can offer is to not be ashamed of working for a smaller publication. These campus papers can serve as an amazing foundation for us to build a future on. Just because others may not take us seriously doesn’t mean we have to follow suit- hold that newspaper up with pride!