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  • 4 Ways to Treat Yourself within Your Budget Limits

    4 Ways to Treat Yourself within Your Budget Limits

    Being finance-savvy is an essential skill, especially these days when there’s a plethora of things to spend one’s money on easily: food deliveries, rides, pop-up shops, limited editions, you name it. It’s always ideal to have a good grasp of your spending limits to ensure you don’t fall hard into debt. A good rule to have before giving in to that new pair of designer boots or signing up for a table at the newly-opened fancy restaurant is to ask yourself, “Do I really need this?”

    Well, the answer to that question is almost always no. Sure, clothing and food fall under your basic needs, but they don’t necessarily have to come with a label and a hefty price tag. You can have a pair of boots that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet and you can satisfy your craving for delicious food so that it doesn’t cost your entire monthly food budget.

    However, being sensible with money doesn’t mean every single dollar you spend should be for practicality’s sake. Just as people who go on diets know, you can allow yourself a cheat day every now and then. This way, you don’t feel completely deprived. But do your best to focus on your goal.

    Whether you’re saving up for something big or looking into completely clearing yourself of debt, read on for four pointers on how to give in to your indulgences while staying true to your mission.

    1. Think of your budget in percentages.

    When someone orders in pizza for the house, one’s share is always divided by slices. Two slices for him, two slices for her, two slices for you, and so on. Now think of your budget as a pizza, and instead of the number of slices, you assign a percentage. You allot 40 per cent for your necessities like utilities and rent, 30 per cent for your groceries, 20 per cent for your credit card debt, and 10 per cent to spend on yourself. Thinking in these terms will give you a better picture of your money while spending on yourself within the budget limits.

    1. Establish clear splurging rules.

    Once you determine how much you can afford for a splurge, form a set of ground rules to make sure you don’t go overboard. For example, if you’re planning to give in to an indulgence, pay with a debit card or with cash. If you need to put it on your credit card, then it means you’re not able to afford it at this time. If you’re expecting a big tax refund soon, ensure that you’re allotting a bigger portion for your savings and not spending it all on splurges.

    1. Avoid impulse buying.

    Impulse purchases are probably the number one cause of one’s budget being in shambles. For some people, it’s almost an instinctive reaction to get their credit cards ready when they see something they like, whether online or at a store. An effective way to avoid this is to create a mantra and follow it, like Taco Tuesday. You can establish your own like Bubble Tea Sunday or Cheesecake Friday. This means that you’re allowing yourself these indulgences only on those particular days. This way, you can guarantee that you’re not giving in to impulse buys.

    1. Make the splurges count.

    If you truly want to make the most out of a splurge, then plan splurges that allow you to spend more time with your family and friends. For example, if you and your friend have been longing to see a band in concert, you can designate this as your splurge. Through this, you not only get to spend time with your friend, but you get to enjoy it too.

    Splurging from time to time is beneficial for your mental and emotional health. Being too restrictive of your funds can lead you to feel deprived, and then it becomes to feel like a burden. You can allow yourself a few indulgences here and there, but be sure to follow the tips above so your spending still sticks to your budget.

     

    Sources

    Baluch, Anna. “How To Treat Yourself on a Tight Budget.” The Balance. https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-treat-yourself-on-a-tight-budget-5079687

    Fellizar Kristine. “How much money should you spend when ‘treating yourself’? We got expert advice.” HelloGiggles. https://hellogiggles.com/lifestyle/treat-yourself-money-expert/

    Juliano, Maggie. “The science of splurges: what do dieting and saving for retirement have in common?” Benefit Consultants Group. https://www.bcgbenefits.com/blog/the-science-of-splurges

  • Find Your Musical Inspiration! (French version available)

    Find Your Musical Inspiration! (French version available)

    Having a deep-seated love of music is one of life’s simplest and yet greatest pleasures. Whether you have an appreciation for hearing and supporting music, or you have a passion for creating it yourself, there will be few things as rewarding. If you grow to love music as a kid, it will follow you throughout your whole life.

    If you are anywhere between grades one and six, chances are you have met the recorder: a simple way to learn basic notes and songs. Maybe you love playing it, or maybe you find it boring. Whatever you feel, in a bit we’ll talk about ways to get the most out of your time with the instrument. When I was in grades five and six—along with being introduced to the recorder—my elementary school provided classes with a ‘music period’. This was my absolute most favourite class, and I was not alone. Our teacher Mr. B would sit on a wooden stool in front of the class with a guitar balanced on his knee. We would sing along to songs like “If I Had a Million Dollars,” “House of the Rising Sun” and “Puff the Magic Dragon.” There is something about collaborating and creating that makes school so meaningful and—dare I say it—Fun!

    Depending on your school, typically band classes will be offered starting in grades six or seven. Here, you’ll get to choose an instrument (like the flute, saxophone, percussion etc.) For some, this part of school isn’t fun because it seems like homework…like you’re being forced to do it. Don’t let the school have that kind of power over you. This is YOUR time. YOU get to pick the instrument, and maybe your teacher decides what you play at school—but at home…YOU’RE the conductor.

    Ways to find your own musical inspiration:

    • If you play an instrument (even if it’s the recorder!) find some sheet music outside of school. Songs you love! Google search free sheet music or buy some with your allowance. Do you love The Beatles? The internet is full of free sheet music and if you’ve learned basic music reading skills at school, you can definitely play “Here Comes the Sun.” Find a way to link up your personal taste and the tools your school has provided. If you find the recorder boring, play your favourite songs on it—or better yet, create your own.

    • What is your favourite movie, TV show or video game? All of these are scored—meaning they all have music specially written or handcrafted for them. Make them your obsession and they will become the soundtrack to your life.

    • Get your parents to take you to middle and high school band concerts. See what the older kids are playing and maybe something will call out to you.

    • Ask a role model what their favourite album is and listen to it. Associating someone you admire with music may mean a lot to you one day.

    Who knows- maybe you’ll love playing musical instruments so much, you’ll choose it as a career. A lot of bands/ solo artists need what you call “session players”; musicians that come into the studio to record on an album. For example, if there is a solo artist who needs a saxophone player on his album, he can contact a recommended saxophone session player.

    “Usually such musicians are not permanent members of a musical ensemble with the singers that they are accompanying and they often do not achieve individual fame in their own right as soloists or bandleaders.” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Session_musician)

    Whether you just want to play music for fun or make it a career somehow, music is always needed in the world. If you have a passion for music and are inspired enough by other musicians, get playing!

  • Loneliness in the Age of Social Media

    Loneliness in the Age of Social Media

    By Rabia Khan

    Loneliness is increasing in youth at the speed of a thunderbolt. Where social media is consumed to fill the dark void inside our souls, it is also contributing to feelings of immense loneliness and this cannot be avoided easily at this time and age.

    While social media transmits useful information, at the same time the digital world fuels dark energies into our lives unwillingly. Loneliness is one of the worst feelings ever and social media enhances it more.

    For some people, embracing self-isolation mode is easy because they are so used to being alone all the time, but for people who constantly sit on their phones every day, a cloud of loneliness can unwrap their mind, body and soul. Loneliness can take over the lives of people and put their mental health on the edge. Watching Instagram reels daily and scrolling Instagram feeds can become highly addictive and can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Escapism feels overwhelming when you become lonely and lost in the age of social media.

    At times, people tend to become fragile and vulnerable, and it is during these sensitive times, that they feel an increasing need to consume social media. It feeds the mind in the most unhealthy ways and some don’t even realize it.

    The pressure often gets to people, to be ‘perfect’ in a public setting, and to escape such situations, social media becomes the only way to avoid reality and the present moment. The majority of youth is hyper-dependent on social media just to ignore the outside world or inhibit any sort of human interactions.

    Loneliness has become the new social norm in the age of social media and the youth are adjusting to feeling lonely quite well. The high rate of suicide is increasing due to self-isolation among young people. However, with that being said, substance use and drug/alcohol addiction have also been increasing due to loneliness. The consequences of being addicted to social media come with many cons and fewer pros.

    The current generation seems to be lost, yet comfortable in their loneliness. We cannot mix loneliness with being self-sufficient and independent. A lot of people misinterpret and misunderstand being alone all the time with their phones.

    Limiting the use of social media can make people feel less lonely, only if they treat their mental health disorders and learn to interact and mix with the outside world. Many young people are prone to experiencing identity crises because of self-isolation. Mental health is at risk due to excess consumption of social media, which pulls the youth into various pressures. This in return, forces them to become lonely. Social media is a form of escapism that puts many at risk of suicide.

    Self-care tip: Give yourself a social media detox, and become conscious about your current surroundings. Practicing new habits and unlearning old ones can inhibit feelings of loneliness and help control excessive social media consumption.

  • Here Comes the Sun: How to Cope with the Winter Blues (French version available)

    Here Comes the Sun: How to Cope with the Winter Blues (French version available)

    It’s Reading Week but your part-time job has called you in to do more shifts as one of your colleagues is sick. At the same time, your high school best friend is celebrating her 21st birthday and you’re the designated person to organize her Zoom birthday party. It’s obvious you have a lot on your to-do list, and you find yourself overwhelmed and unable to start on anything to cross something off it. However, in past years at around the same period, you’ve had a lot on your plate as something unexpected always came along, but you’ve handled those times like a pro. What makes this year different?

    Most likely you’ve succumbed to the so-called “winter blues,” which is common when the days start to get colder and darker. It is a normal human process, though the effects may be different from person to person; some may feel sluggish, while others lose their appetite. However, if the effects are more severe like feeling hopeless about the future, then it might be more than the winter doldrums, but rather Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In this case, it may be best to consult with your doctor.

    SAD as a condition was first clinically diagnosed in the 1980s when physician Norman Rosenthal moved from South Africa to the United States and noticed how he became unproductive during winter months and recovered by springtime. After this observation, he collaborated with his colleagues at the National Institutes of Health to conduct research on how light exposure affected circadian rhythms, which are 24-hour cycles that make up the body’s internal clock, running in the background to carry out essential functions and processes. The research would in turn pave the way for light exposure therapy.

    Many are unaware of how important sunlight exposure is to our physical and mental health. And when the days are shorter like what happens in winter, we are deprived of that much-needed sunlight exposure. A normal dosage of sunlight (5 to 15 minutes) gives us Vitamin D, which is essential to modulate cell growth and reduce inflammation. Sun exposure also helps improve our mood, promotes better quality of sleep, lowers blood pressure, and leads to stronger bones.

    Fortunately, there are ways to deal with the lack of sun exposure without necessarily falling prone to the winter blues. Here are some that you can try out:

    Start the day on a positive note… literally.

    Keep a notebook and a pen close on your bedside table, and make it a point when you wake up in the morning to write down three things that you are blessed to have in your life or you’re grateful for. This will set a more positive start to your day.

    Create a pleasant space.

    When you look out your window and all you see is a blanket of white snow, it may be hard to get your mind off the doldrums. However, a good way to conquer winter gloom is to contradict what’s going on outside by setting up a spring- or summer-like study or work nook in your place. Decorate your desk with the brightest-coloured flowers you can find in your corner store and spritz on some citrus scents.

    Dress in clothes in cheerful colours.

    Our garb also plays a role in our mood, and wearing sunny-coloured clothing can do a lot to help turn things around. But which colour to choose, you may ask – yellow, orange, or green? Well, an unspoken rule is if you can stop traffic with the colour, then you’re doing it right. Another way to beat the winter lull with your outfits is to go for softer fabrics because they give you that cuddly feeling.

    Get light therapy.

    If you’re unable to go out for natural light therapy, the next best thing is using light boxes that produce a bright white light. Several options are available online to suit one’s aesthetics and personal needs, but remember to follow health and safety protocols when using one. For instance, you should not directly look at the light; rather keep it in front of you or to the side.

    Do an activity you enjoy.

    Too much studying or working can take its toll on anyone. So find the time to give yourself a break and take this time to do something you enjoy, whether it’s rewatching your favourite movie, listening to your most-cherished band, or playing online games with your family or friends. Doing so will take your mind off the things that cause you stress, and you’ll feel refreshed and re-energized.

    Now that we’ve looked into ways to rid yourself of the winter glumness, it’s time to let the sunshine in!

     

    SOURCES

    https://luminohealth.sunlife.ca/s/article/How-to-survive-the-winter-blues-in-Canada?language=en_US

    https://www.breakthroughs.com/foundations-science/science-behind-winter-blues

    https://www.tricitymed.org/2018/08/5-ways-the-sun-impacts-your-mental-and-physical-health/

    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651

    https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/entry/bright-colors-beat-the-winter-blues_n_5a0f1373e4b0e97dffed0723

    https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/shining-a-light-on-winter-depression

  • Some Differences Between College and University

    Some Differences Between College and University

    If you’re thinking of applying to either college or university, it’s important to understand the differences between the two. In Canada, college and university are two separate pathways. However, in other countries like the United States, college and university are considered the same thing and are one pathway altogether. There are many differences between college and university, and it’s encouraged to understand each before applying to make sure it’s the correct option for you. The main differences between the two options are the degrees, the amount of time it takes to earn those degrees, learning styles, pricing and of course, content.

    Depending on the job you hope to acquire when you’re older, these pathways can determine your likelihood of getting a job based on the degree you get, and the suggested pathway for that specific field. In college, students typically spend 2-3 years earning either an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s (undergraduate) degree. In university, students typically spend anywhere between 3 and 8 years earning a PhD, doctoral, master’s or bachelor’s degree.

    It can take:

    • up to 8 years for a PhD ( doctoral degrees are 4-6 years)
    • master’s degrees are 1.5-2 years on top of the amount of time it takes to earn your bachelor’s
    • bachelor’s degrees usually take 3-4 years.

    Depending on your field of interest, you may be spending a lot of time in school, or maybe, a little amount. For example, if you want to become a doctor, either a doctoral degree or a Ph. D is required. If you want to go into one of the trades such as an electrician, an associate’s degree from college is recommended.

    Another important thing to keep in mind while choosing your pathway is the learning style; are you hands-on? Or more book-worm oriented? Colleges and universities have separate teaching styles and provide information in different ways to help students learn. In high school when selecting courses for grades 9-10, you are required to choose either applied, academic, workplace and open level courses. Applied typically leads to college, academic usually leads to university, workplace sometimes leads to community college or other pathways, and open leads to any of the above. However, if you take these courses, it doesn’t mean you can’t apply or be accepted into the other pathways, it just limits your likelihood. These types of courses also use different learning techniques. Applied uses hands-on learning while academic students are taught using books and listening to someone speak. Open level courses are often trades, arts and phys-ed courses in high school which can use any of the teaching techniques to accept all students and their learning styles. Workplace courses are courses such as Cooperative Education (CO-OP) to give students a better understanding of what it’s like to choose the workplace as their pathway after high school. Depending on your high school, these types of courses and levels may vary. After grades 9-10, many high schools switch from applied and academic to college and university so students are better able to understand and plan the courses they are choosing based on their pathway.

    Along with this, colleges and universities have a price difference. While attending both, the main costs are tuition, books, and transportation/housing if that applies to you. The price of books ranges from course to course. Transportation also depends on a variety of things; whether you have a car, are using public transportation, where you live, where your campus is, etc. Housing prices are typically the same at colleges and universities. However, the biggest price difference is tuition. The type of degree and course you choose to learn will determine the tuition price but universities are typically more expensive than colleges. For both, there are scholarships and financial aid available to students who are suited for it.

    Despite all of these differences listed above, try to avoid choosing a pathway based on economic convenience. You need to do what makes you happy and what can lead to an independent lifestyle.  Instead, choose the pathway best suited for you and the career you hope to achieve.

     

    References:

    https://settlement.org/downloads/didl/english/difference-college-university-en.pdf

    https://www.franklin.edu/blog/what-is-a-doctorate-degree

    https://www.geteducated.com/career-center/detail/what-is-a-bachelors-degree/

    https://www.bestmastersdegrees.com/best-masters-degrees-faq/how-long-does-it-take-to-receive-a-masters-degree

    https://www.geteducated.com/career-center/detail/what-is-an-associate-degree/

  • What Can You Do with a University English Degree?

    What Can You Do with a University English Degree?

    If you study Education, Medicine, or Law in university, you have a clear career path. With an English degree, the career path is more difficult, but finding a good job is still possible. With the skills that come through studying English literature, people can prepare themselves for a wide variety of jobs.

    A university degree in English involves studying books, essays, and other writings from many different eras. Some students concentrate on a certain time period, such as the nineteenth century, or a certain type of writing, such as poetry. Still, most students start with courses that cover many different eras and types of literature before they choose a specialty. This gives them the chance to study different types of writing and to develop their own skills.

    Some of the most important benefits that come from an English degree are the ability to read and understand difficult texts, to find their important themes, and to write about them in a way that helps others to understand. This skill can be very useful in fields like law, where people often have to read and understand many pages of documents in a short amount of time.

    English literature students might learn about politics and ambition through the works of William Shakespeare or Jonathan Swift, and they might learn about the struggle for better working conditions through the novels of Charles Dickens or Émile Zola. These insights could lead to careers in journalism or politics, where people need to know about many different issues and how they relate to people’s needs.

    Publishing and technical writing are good choices for graduates of English programs. Studying famous writers helps people to understand effective communication and how to get an idea across clearly and concisely. Some people go on from English degrees into technical writing. This branch involves writing procedures manuals and other instructional documents. For example, technical writers might work with factories to update instructions for welding cars together or with hospitals on writing procedures for taking care of surgical patients.

    Marketing and communications are other areas where English literature graduates can work. Many companies hire communications specialists to write press releases or to contact other people who want information on the company. The writing practice that people get from studying English gives them the skills they need to write clearly in newsletters and other communications for investors and others who are interested in different companies and organizations.

    Teaching is also a good option for people with English degrees, whether they teach their own subject or something related to it. English as a Second Language teaching is good for people who want to work with newcomers, and other subjects can also fit well with English studies.

    Librarianship is a good option since people with a background in English literature already know about books and how to get the best from them. Even financial jobs are possible, although working with words is quite different from dealing with numbers.

    A degree in English might not seem very useful these days, but it can give a good foundation for many different jobs. With the reading and writing skills that people gain through their English studies, they can find many possibilities open to them.

     

    Sources

    Stanford University. “Careers After an English Major.” https://english.stanford.edu/information-for/undergraduates/careers-after-english-major.

    Top Universities.com. “What Can You Do with an English Literature Degree?” https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/careers-advice/what-can-you-do-english-literature-degree

    University of Toronto. “Careers by Major—English.” https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/careers/careers-by-major-english.

    University of Waterloo. “Undergraduate Programs: English.” https://uwaterloo.ca/future-students/programs/english.

  • That’s All, Folks: Advice for those going into their last semester of college/university

    That’s All, Folks: Advice for those going into their last semester of college/university

    By Tiffany Chang

    Congratulations! You’re almost there. For some students, this may be your last few months of schooling and then, after graduation, it’s out into the real world.

    As someone who recently graduated, one’s final semester can pass by quite quickly. To end this journey on a high note, here are a few tips on how you can make the most out of it:

    Make Sure This Is Your Last Semester

    Even if you’re absolutely sure you’ve calculated correctly, it doesn’t hurt to double-check with a counsellor or academic advisor that this is indeed your final semester. You have access to another pair of knowledgeable eyes whose job is to help students in these areas, so soon-to-be graduates might as well confirm the current number of completed credits as well as the credits in progress for good measure.

    Overall, asking could provide that additional reassurance.

    Connect with Alumni Who Have Graduated from Your Program

    If you haven’t done so already, many colleges/universities facilitate opportunities for students to meet people with established careers who’ve graduated from the same program as them. They often help you get a better idea of what professions are currently feasible options in your chosen field.

    Students can likely gain very valuable, updated information during these encounters that could give them the right tools to prepare them for future job searching. This is essentially networking as you can also establish professional relationships with alumni as well.

    Take Some Time to Enjoy the Rest of Your Academic Journey

    Do anything the school has to offer for students that you think you might like, whether it be joining a club, a volunteering/work opportunity, or attending/getting involved with various events. During COVID-19, this may be tricky to navigate, but I encourage you to try your best to find something enjoyable while, of course, also keeping yourself safe and following safety protocols.

    Another option might even be taking a course(s) you’re interested in. For instance, those attending university and getting their bachelor’s degree who have finished their program’s specific requirements could enrol in a course(s) that isn’t necessarily related to their major. They will learn information they’ll likely enjoy engaging with while completing their remaining credits.

    These are all great ways to create memories you’ll be able to look back on fondly long after graduation.

    Finally, Give Yourself a Pat on the Back!

    Pursuing a college/university program is difficult and encompasses countless stressful moments. Oftentimes, people are so focused on their heavy workloads that they feel as though they don’t have time to take in how much they’ve actually accomplished throughout the entire process.

    Just pause for a moment to reflect, then say: “I can see the finish line and I’m proud of myself for making it this far.”

    All in all, appreciate the time you have left as a student and try doing what’s stated above while you still can. You’ve worked incredibly hard to finish your schooling. Continue being productive and seek opportunities for enjoyment as you complete your last semester.

  • Addressing Food Insecurity Among College and University Students

    Addressing Food Insecurity Among College and University Students

    By Rabia Khan

    Students who travel abroad for higher education know the pain of living separately from their parents and family. They are forced to leave a very comfortable and privileged life behind to pursue their dream in a foreign land. But many fail to foresee the consequences and challenges that come along the way when you are on your own. While this self-efficient journey can surely become life-changing, some face the hurdles with a high head!

    Food is the source of human life; when you’re unable to receive sufficient food, things can become overwhelming. Thousands of post-secondary students experience food insecurity in day-to-day life. Here are some ways you can fight food insecurity as an international or domestic university or college student!

    Food banks

    It is not a shame to rely on additional resources like food banks; some people feel overwhelmed by utilizing services provided by public organizations. Food banks are one of the most effective options to fight food insecurity. Many of them provided monthly packages or weekly groceries without any cost. Food banks majorly benefit students as they don’t get enough time to cook their meals and are most likely out of funds.

    Food pantry (university/colleges)

    There are some universities and colleges that run a weekly food pantry benefitting all students who are in need. They provide a wide variety of options for students and believe in the idea of food sustainability. Besides, the food pantry provides fresh stock for free.

    Community centers for youth

    As an international or domestic student, times can get rough. It is important to know that you are not alone; you can have full access to community centres especially run for youth and reap benefits from them. They not only provide help with low-cost/free housing but also assist with free groceries and free meals!

    Free meal programmes

    A student struggling with food insecurity can welcome a lot of stress in life. It is very essential to rely upon useful resources and receive early assistance as soon as possible. Some Non-profit organizations endlessly work to better the lives of vulnerable people and those who are affected by food scarcity. That is when free meal programmes come into place, and students in need can access these NGOs without feeling ashamed.

    Cheap grocery by referral/Coupons

    Some universities provide coupons and referrals within the community to students who are in need. They can benefit from cheap groceries which are sustainable at the same time. Besides, it can save a lot of money and prevent students from shopping from big retail stores that promise discounted prices.

     

    Final Word

    Don’t be shy to seek help and ask for support. It is important that as students, early assistance is placed to avoid or prevent unforeseen circumstances as the life of a student is very uncertain. Besides, mental and physical well-being will set you up for a successful career.

  • Farm Equipment Mechanic Career Profile (French version available)

    Farm Equipment Mechanic Career Profile (French version available)

    Every machine breaks down at some point, whether from frequent use or from being badly made. When that equipment is essential, such as on a farm, a person who can repair the machinery becomes very important. Working as a farm equipment mechanic can help keep farmers working and ensure that people have a reliable source of food.

    Most farms have a variety of equipment, depending on the type of work being done. Grain farms have tractors, harvesters, and other large machinery useful for working on large fields and digging up soil. Dairy farms might have equipment for milking cattle, and egg farms would have different types of equipment. For each of them, however, having equipment that functions well is important.

    Farm equipment mechanics work to make sure that the equipment works as well as possible. They inspect the machinery and maintain it by cleaning it, oiling the moving parts, and doing whatever else is necessary. At least once a season, many farm equipment mechanics do a thorough overhaul of everything to find any issues that might cause problems in the future. They might tighten bolts and deal with rusty parts or any other potential problems.

    Sometimes, farm equipment mechanics need to take machines apart to find the problem. Then they can replace or repair faulty parts, using welding machines, hand tools, or other equipment. Being able to put the machine together again is also very important so that the farm workers can use it again. Having a good memory and being methodical can help avoid the problem of having an extra piece left over at the end. Mechanics might also need to drive large machines to a barn or other repair facility. Having expert driving skills is helpful for this task.

    A high school diploma or equivalent is normally the minimum requirement for farm equipment mechanics. Being able to communicate is important, and so English classes are helpful. Any courses in mechanics or even in physics could also be helpful. Taking classes at a technical college could give workers an advantage in looking for work.

    Jobs for farm equipment mechanics are normally located in the country or in small towns near farms. Wages for people in this trade start at about $15 per hour or $33,000 per year and can rise to $34 per hour or $68,000 per year. Some people might choose to become experts in certain types of equipment, but others might prefer to deal with any type of machine that they can.

    Like many other trades, the job of a farm equipment mechanic can be physically demanding, especially when people bend over machines for hours at a time. The work can be dirty, as moving parts in machines require oil to keep them moving properly. Testing the machines to see if they are working can also be loud, and the repair shops can be dusty and hot. However, the work can be rewarding for people who enjoy putting machines together or finding solutions for mechanical problems they encounter.

    A career as a farm equipment mechanic can be the right choice for people who are detail-oriented and good with their hands. If that describes you, why not consider this important trade?

     

    Bibliography:

    Career Planner.com. “Farm Equipment Mechanic.” https://job-descriptions.careerplanner.com/Farm-Equipment-Mechanics.cfm.

    Job Bank. “Agricultural Equipment Technician in Canada.” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/occupation/26452/ca;jsessionid=44CBD3300650D70B70C4EFAB1589BF53.jobsearch74

    Payscale Canada. “Farm Equipment Mechanic Hourly Rate.” https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Farm_Equipment_Mechanic/Hourly_Rate.

    Salary.com. “Farm Equipment Mechanic.” https://www.salary.com/research/job-description/benchmark/farm-equipment-mechanic-job-description.

  • Career Profile: Architect

    Career Profile: Architect

    Looking around your town or city, you will see many different buildings and infrastructure: houses and stores, schools and community centers, shopping malls and places of worship.  These buildings can be plain, or they can be beautiful works of art.  Regardless of the type of building, however, it needs to be designed.  This type of building design work is done by professionals called architects.

    What Does an Architect Do?

    Architects are responsible for designing buildings and making sure that they look nice, that they are safe, and that they are functional.  Architects will use both artistic skills and technical knowledge to create drawings and plans of a building’s interior and exterior, and these drawings will be used to create the blueprints that are used for construction.  They will also oversee projects from beginning to end, which involves working with the company that wants the building, the city or town where it is being built, and interacting with the construction teams who are doing the day-to-day work.

    What Skills Do Architects Need?

    Architects need a wide variety of skills to be effective in their work.  This includes artistic abilities to imagine and draw illustrations of the buildings they are thinking of, drafting skills to draw technical layouts and blueprints, and a strong understanding of physical sciences including engineering and math.  They also possess knowledge about building codes, environmental regulations, local and provincial laws regarding construction, and much more.

    Architects work closely with clients and construction crews, so they need to have strong communication skills to explain their ideas, and strong interpersonal skills to work with others. Most architects work in offices, either as part of an architecture firm or as individuals who work independently.  They can be hired by private companies, the military, or the government.

    To work as an architect, you need to study architecture and earn a degree from a college or university.  You will also need to complete an internship under a registered architect and take an architect registration exam.

    The average yearly salary for architects working in Canada is around $71,800. Depending on where they work and how many years of experience they have, architects can make anywhere from about $50,000 to $104,000 per year,

    Where Do Architects Work?

    There are jobs for architects all across Canada and around the world, for projects large and small.  No matter what kind of architectural projects you want to work on, from huge skyscrapers and impressive artistic designs to houses, schools, hospitals, and more, there is no end to the opportunities in an architect’s career.  This also means as an architect you may have the option to travel to other cities and countries.

    A lot of an architect’s work will be done in an office environment, such as when working on creating drawings and blueprints or building example models of a building design, and can involve long hours sitting at a desk and working at a drafting table or computer.  Architects will also regularly work on-site during the construction and finishing stages of a project, which can involve a significant amount of standing and walking.  Some architects may even work remotely from home, only visiting offices or job sites occasionally.

    Architecture is a very important part of the many buildings that make up a town or city. Architects are the people who help make them happen. If all of this sounds fun and exciting, then architect might be the job for you!

     

    Sources

    CareerExplorer. “What does an architect do?” https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/architect/

    Job Bank. “Architect in Canada.” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/requirements/17867/ca

    PayScale. “Design Architect.” https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Design_Architect/Salary

    StudentScholarships.org. “What do architects do?” https://studentscholarships.org/salary/556/architects.php