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Category: Campus Life

  • If I Knew Then

    If I Knew Then

    Advice on careers, finance, and life from Harvard Business School’s Class of 1963

    Each month, JobsPeopleDo will be featuring a special quote from a graduate of the Harvard Business School Class of 1963. The following quotes are insightful and can be used to inspire and encourage the right career path for you…

    • Find an industry that gets you excited and a company that places excellence and integrity at the top of their list of core values.

    • Identify the areas in which you can truly excel. What you do well is not work — no matter how hard it is and how many hours are required.

    • Learn everything you can about your company, its industry, and your job. Understand both the details and the big picture.

    • Always be willing to help others, because many will later help you.

    • Befriend and work with the best people, because they will make you better.

    ~Ralph Linsalata~

    Via : http://hbs1963.com/

  • ESL: An Introduction to an Adventurous Career Path

    ESL: An Introduction to an Adventurous Career Path

    If you had learned English as an adult, what would you have been struggling with the most? For non-native speakers, that question is a grammatical whirlwind: a third conditional using past perfect and perfect continuous clauses. Learning English as an adult is daunting, and that is why ESL is so important.

    ESL is the study of English as a Second Language. Most ESL classrooms typically have about four to twelve students. This creates a comfortable atmosphere for learners to not only befriend each other, but also the teacher. A single classroom often has students from several countries having come to learn and immerse themselves in English, so it always makes for an interesting group.

    This atmosphere is important for the type of work done in class. Instead of everyone keeping their heads down as they fill in the blanks of grammar sheet exercises, ESL classes focus on group projects and engaging activities. The teacher spends little to no time lecturing, but instead introduces a grammatical concept at the beginning of class. Through role-playing games and group activities, those grammar rules are mixed with practical and real life situations.

    These classes are found in private colleges and public schools around the world. Teaching ESL is a rewarding career that will allow you to meet wonderful people from all over the globe. If that is something you want to explore, start by finding English tutoring and teaching opportunities. These could be paid or volunteer work, as either way they will give you the valuable experience schools are looking for.

    You will also need ESL teaching credentials. It can be hard to choose a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) program, as there are a myriad of them. Most are short programs and of little value. Instead, choose one affiliated with TESL Canada. Certification requires the completion of an affiliated TESOL program and an undergraduate degree. You will be qualified to work in ESL colleges across the country. TESL Canada is also recognized worldwide, meaning you can even work in ESL schools abroad!

    Many teachers will use their credentials to find teaching opportunities in other countries. It is a great chance to explore the world while getting paid to do it. It also looks great on your resume for future opportunities. If you are inexperienced, South Korea is the place to go, as there are many reputable schools in the country regularly looking for instructors. You will likely sign a one-year contract, so if you are okay with leaving your life here behind for that long, a great adventure awaits.

    As English continues to be such a vital language in the modern world, the ESL industry remains full of opportunities. You are already on the right track by being in an undergraduate program. Seek out small teaching opportunities to build experience, and look for TESOL programs in your area, and you will be well on your way.

  • If I Knew Then…

    If I Knew Then…

    Advice on careers, finance, and life from Harvard Business School’s Class of 1963

    Each month, JobsPeopleDo will be featuring a special quote from a graduate of the Harvard Business School Class of 1963. The following quotes are insightful and can be used to inspire and encourage the right career path for you…

    Steps to find fulfilling work:

    1. Take the initiative to investigate the places you think are of interest. Ask good questions.
    2. Go with the self-assurance of having written on an index card each of your past accomplishments (including where you simply helped other people do their thing) in three forms:
    3. A simple phrase; e.g., “top salesman in New York office for three years”
    4. A three-sentence statement of the problem, your solution, and the result
    5. A one-page explanation or anecdote to share if asked to give details
    6. Use those cards deftly to encourage people to talk to you — showing you listen on their level and understand whatever they tell you. Remember: The more they talk, the smarter they’ll think you are.

    ~ Ron Leslie ~

    Via http://hbs1963.com/

  • Go with the Flow!

    Go with the Flow!

    I have to admit something. I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. And I turn 40 in a few weeks. And that’s OK!

    My career and education path has been full of changes. Graduating from High School, I was going to be an Economics major. I thought it would give me the best chance of a stable job when I graduated. Turns out, I hate economics! But I loved my Geography and Anthropology courses. Luckily, that’s what first year is about, finding subjects that peak your interest. So I changed my major to dual Geography-Anthropology only to then lose my part time job and move home with my parents. The university in their city didn’t have an anthropology department so my major became Geography. However, once I graduated with my BA, I realized I would have to get higher education to carry on in that field, but I didn’t love it enough to work towards a Master’s degree. So I decided to work for a little bit. While working as a waitress, I decided to get a certificate from the local college in Business Administration. I liked the Human Resources part; people made sense to me. But I stayed a waitress because the money was good and I had a pile of student debt. A few years later, I met and married my husband, who with his military career, took me around the world, and gave me two children. During the next fifteen years I earned two more college certificates, one in being a teacher of adult learners, and one for graphic design. Both I took online in my spare time. Now I work part time in a retail store and I own my own business doing graphic design, photography and freelance writing. How’s that for going with the flow? If you would have told me in High School that I would one day be getting paid to be creative, I would have laughed at you.

    The idea that a person knows exactly what they will do with their life at 17 or 18 is ridiculous. Even if you are 100% sure of the path, life sometimes takes twists and turns you weren’t expecting. Good and bad things will be thrown at you, and it’s your ability to deal with those events that determine how successful you will ultimately be.

    The best part about being open and going with the flow, is that every experience you have, can be brought with you. I may not be “using” my degree, but the research and study skills from those years are a core part of every course I took afterwards. The customer service skills I learned as a waitress, I use in my freelance business. The software I learned in business, I use every day. Even the cultural awareness I gained while travelling is invaluable.

    In short, be open to new possibilities. Learn from failure, say yes to new things, challenge yourself to try scary things. Sometimes the things we fear doing the most, are precisely the things we need to be doing.

    And, remember, two steps forward and one step back isn’t failure….it’s dancing the tango!

  • Goal-Setting: Tips and Tricks

    Goal-Setting: Tips and Tricks

    Need to get something done? A strategy may be in order. Conscientious people know what they want and make concrete plans to get it, completing small tasks each day and slowly but steadily progressing towards their desired result. In other words, they’ve mastered the art of goal-setting, a fantastic skill that can help you further your achievement.

    Goal-setting is an asset when you’re working on long-term projects or towards your own self-fulfillment. It is also a skill that transfers well into higher education as well as into the workforce, where you will have more and more tasks and responsibilities to manage—and where it becomes even more important to keep your eye on the ball.

    Here is some advice that will help you develop your goal-setting skills, and that may, in turn, contribute to your long-term success.

    Dream big, start small.

    I’m sure a part of you secretly dreams of saving the world—whether it’s discovering the cure for cancer or being on the first human expedition to Pluto, we all have dreams that are certainly worth investing it. That being said, it takes small steps to accomplish any goal. Keep your long-term ambitions in mind, but stay focused on what you can do today that will bring you one step closer to achieving them.

    Keep it regular.

    Turn goal-setting into a habit. For instance, you can start your morning off by making a list of three things you want to accomplish by the end of the day. Though these things can be related to your long-term goals, don’t forget about daily chores and tasks to accomplish—even small things like completing your overdue homework or cooking a healthy meal can turn a regular day into a productive one.

    Motivate yourself.

    Most people want to be productive, but laziness or apathy often gets in the way of their accomplishments. Solve your potential lack of motivation by having a long-term vision that will pull you out of bed when all you want to do is sleep in. It’s also recommended that you reward yourself for your hard work: for example, when you reach 10 successfully completed goals, you can have a day off to relax.

    Hold yourself accountable.

    We all slip up from time to time, and that’s perfectly normal, but try not to let getting sidetracked become a bad habit. If you slack off or forget your responsibilities, make a commitment to yourself that you’ll do better next time—after all, you owe it to yourself and to your future. To help you keep track of your progress, you can use a goal-setting journal for personal reflection.

  • I want to go to Law School; Now what?

    I want to go to Law School; Now what?

    A post-secondary education can take you down many roads; in fact, many students choose to pursue higher education post-grad. For all of you competitive, ambitious individuals who love paperwork as much as you love debate, going to law school has probably at least crossed your mind.

    To get into almost any law school in Canada, you need three things: at least 2-3 years of university experience (though the vast majority of students attend law school after completing their undergraduate studies), a great score on the Law School Admission Test (the LSAT), and a stellar personal statement or application (giving the selection board insight into why you are right for their school).

    University Experience

    When it comes to law school, the undergraduate major that you choose really doesn’t matter as long as you have the required university experience. Popular “pre-law majors” include social sciences (political science, criminology, sociology) and humanities (English, history, philosophy). However, individuals in programs from life sciences to commerce to music have done very well in law school, too.

    It’s smart to study what you love: not only will you enjoy your undergraduate studies; you will likely achieve the high marks you need to get into the law school of your choice. Many law students also use their undergraduate experience as a supplement for a future career—for example, a future environmental lawyer would benefit from an ecology degree.

    The LSAT

    The LSAT is a demanding multiple-choice test that requires a lot of preparation. There are three graded sections to the test. Firstly, you will be required to complete “games”, essentially logic puzzles involving a variety of situations. Secondly, you will have to analyze arguments for their premises, conclusions, and weaknesses. Finally, you will complete a reading comprehension exercise. (The LSAT also has an essay portion that is not graded, but that admissions boards can look at when evaluating your application).

    To prepare for this test, you need to make studying a top priority. Many students attend classes and hire tutors, and it is strongly recommended that you complete practice exercises and mock tests. Though the test is difficult, if you study hard, you will do well, and (like the SATs in the U.S.) you can always take it again if you are unhappy with your score, time permitting.

    Personal Statement or Application

    Essentially, the personal statement is an opportunity for you to showcase your skills and explain why you would make a good addition to the school. Many students describe their long-term aspirations as a lawyer, and the things they hope to learn from their time at their school of choice. When writing your statement, it’s smart to keep in mind the profile of the schools to which you’re applying, as well as what you plan to get out of your law degree.

    Law school is not for the faint of heart, but if you set your mind to it, you will succeed. If you think a career is right for you, get cracking on your applications!

  • Having a Tutor in College and University

    Having a Tutor in College and University

    Deciding to get assistance from a tutor during your academic career depends on how you feel about your classes, your grades, and your study skills, and does not mean you are a bad student. There are good reasons to get help from a tutor for a single assignment, a specific course, or for the whole semester, regardless of your grades.

    Maintain or Improve Academic Standing

    Grades are often the main consideration when deciding to get a tutor. You want to do well in school, and a tutor can help. Particularly for students who are relying on grade-dependent scholarships and grants, having a tutor can ensure you are able to keep your grades up where they need to be to continue receiving this support. Depending on the direction of your academic career, future programs may require minimum grades for application and consideration.

    Get Help for a Particular Assignment, Course, or Subject

    No one is an expert in everything, and you may have a class or assignment containing a lot of new material with which you are not familiar. If you start feeling confused or overwhelmed by course material, a tutor can be a great help. They can explain and demonstrate concepts, offer study tips, and suggest ways to organize the information to increase understanding. They can also help you plan and outline assignments, or read over a draft of a report or essay and offer suggestions for improvement.

    Recover From a Low Grade

    You don’t necessarily want to wait until after you get a low grade on an important exam or assignment to consider getting a tutor. However, if that is what happens, a tutor can help you review your work, explain the comments from your professor, and talk through where you could have improved or what you may have missed. Then they can help you study and work on future assignments, for a better understanding of the material next time.

    Tutoring can help you at any time during school – not just when you‘re a freshman or having trouble with a class. You can gain a clearer understanding of course material and avoid low grades before they happen. You will also gain confidence in your study skills and in your ability to complete assignments. Getting a tutor early on and having regular meetings with them (even if it is just a few times a month) can give you an excellent academic boost.

    There are various options for finding a tutor. Most colleges and universities offer tutoring services free through academic counselling and student services departments. These can be either drop-in sessions, or pre-arranged appointment times for one-on-one assistance. External tutoring services also operate independent of any specific school, though usually there is a fee.

    Lastly, if you know another student in your year, or a year or two ahead, you can ask them personally if they would be willing to tutor you. Just remember to take the tutoring sessions seriously, as they are willing to share some of their time with you.

    Sources:

    http://www.collegeparentcentral.com/2010/05/tutoring-can-help-your-college-student-succeed-twelve-reasons-to-start-early/

    University of Western Ontario Student Development Centre

    http://sdc.uwo.ca/learning/

     

  • Feminism and Its Many Perspectives

    Feminism and Its Many Perspectives

    When you ask people what they think feminism means, you will likely get a variety of answers. Some may say it means a feminist is a woman who can do anything that a guy can do, while some may say a woman who is happily single.

    Such definitions sometimes hit a moot point, however, and are entirely generalized. If a woman can’t do hard labor, does that mean she can’t be a feminist? And what about women who are leading blissful lives with their male partners? Does this mean they can’t be feminists?

    People that are active on social media tend to have a lot of opinions of what feminism is, and what it means to be a feminist. In our digital age, there is a lot of attention paid to how women are illustrated and portrayed on and off the internet, causing many debates and discussions to commence around the world.

    One thing that is not arguable, is that feminism encourages women to speak their minds and be themselves. Being a feminist also means supporting the rights of women, whether it is concerning their reproductive system, or the ability to speak up when threatened by violence or other means.

    A good thing to do is to stop putting the term “feminism” in a box. The media has an incredible influence on young people, and it tends to confuse the masses. Feminism may mean different things to people, but it absolutely means equal rights for both genders in work, home and beyond. Whatever your beliefs are, be supportive of other women, regardless of the differences in beliefs and opinions. Just be your own individual and always make the best effort to achieve your dreams and ambitions. Feminism is about togetherness, so let’s get together!

    SOURCES:

    http://feminist.com/resources/artspeech/genwom/feministteacher.html

    http://www.genderandeducation.com/issues/why-is-feminism-a-%E2%80%9Cdirty-word%E2%80%9D-among-teenage-girls/

    http://lipmag.com/opinion/why-teenage-girls-need-feminism/

    http://elitedaily.com/women/thats-just-like-rules-feminism-5-instances-support-fellow-women/872867/

  • If I Knew Then: Advice on careers, finance, and life from Harvard Business School’s Class of 1963

    If I Knew Then: Advice on careers, finance, and life from Harvard Business School’s Class of 1963

    Each month, JobsPeopleDo will be featuring a special quote from a graduate of the Harvard Business School Class of 1963. The following quotes are insightful and can be used to inspire and encourage the right career path for you…

    You have the talent and capability to create a great life for yourself and for our society. The opportunities are numerous. The need for leadership is compelling. You live only once, and life is short. So your choices matter greatly.

    Don’t waste your chance to make important contributions. Work on important opportunities and problems. Be an ethical exemplar and committed leader. Become a recognized expert in your chosen profession. Reach out to and concentrate your time with the best people in your profession. Avoid those who are OK or less on values, character, and ethics.

    Choose a career you really enjoy. You’ll make ample money doing work you like with people you admire. You’ll be able to provide your family with everything of real value, so why give up joy for dough?

    Find a firm that understands the real value of good ethics.

    You may consider starting your own company, ideally with one or more friends you trust and admire. If anyone can talk you out of it, let them — because it’s only when you know you must do it that you’ll have the determination to overcome all the obstacles and challenges and have the persistence to figure it out and make it fly.

    If you decide to go ahead, give it all you’ve got. Building your own company is the greatest freedom you can ever have — and it’s fun!

    ~ Charley Ellis ~

    Via http://hbs1963.com/

  • Campus Safety Tips: Things You Should Know

    Campus Safety Tips: Things You Should Know

    Your college or university campus might feel like a second home, but it is important to remember to keep safe, both during the day and at night. With a bit of consideration, you can ensure your student experience remains a positive and safe one.

    Know Your Campus Safety Resources

    Every college and university wants their students to feel safe and secure while on campus, and usually offer a comprehensive list of safety services and resources available to students. One of your first tasks should be to look up these resources in the student handbook or online, and familiarize yourself with what programs your institution offers, so that you know where to go and who to contact in case of any emergency. Depending on the school, services can include campus police services, safe escort teams to walk with you between campus destinations, first aid and first responder services, and emergency phones or kiosk stations installed across campus. All schools also offer prevention and counselling services for sexual harassment and other forms of harassment. Get to know where these services are located on campus, what their phone and other contact details are, and their hours of operation if applicable, so that you know your options if you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe on campus. These services, and the volunteers who run them, are there to help you, and their goal is your safety and the safety of the campus overall.

    Plan Ahead and Be Prepared

    Other ways to help ensure your safety on campus can include planning ahead when you know you will be on campus for class or studying, especially late at night when there are fewer people out and about. When you make your plans, know exactly where you are going, and how you will get there. Learn the location of your parking or public transit stops, and the best path to reach your destination, ideally through a brightly lit, busy street or building. Avoid any shortcuts, shadowed pathways, and unpopulated areas, and be aware of your surroundings. If possible, plan to walk with a friend, or arrange for your campus walking escort service to accompany you. It is also a good idea to carry a cell phone with the campus emergency services’ phone numbers saved in your contacts, and enough cash for a cab ride in case of emergency. Lastly, notify friends or roommates of your plans, including destination and what time you plan to return, and ensure you lock all the doors and windows of your residence room, house or car when you leave.

    Trust Your Instincts

    If you do ever feel unsafe on campus, trust your instincts and take preventative measures. For example, should you be harassed by someone, or feel that you are being followed, act immediately to get to a well lit and busy place, and call your campus security or police service, or 911. Nothing is more important than your safety, and these services are always available and ready to help.

    Campus safety doesn’t just mean safety outdoors. If you or you know someone who is being bullied or otherwise, on a daily basis, let your campus authorities know. The same goes for the online world; many students in university or college can be victims of digital harassment online while at school. Be aware or your surroundings, how much you reveal about yourself and to who.

    Sources:

    Western University – Campus Life: Safety and Police

    http://www.uwo.ca/campus_life/safety_police.html

    University of Toronto – Safety

    http://safety.utoronto.ca/