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  • Life After High School

    Do you ever think about what you plan to do when you finish high school? Maybe you want to work right away or maybe you want to continue studying. For the first time, you’ll be making decisions that could affect you, your family, and your friends for the rest of your life. You can’t control everything in your life, but you can make a plan that will help you to enjoy whatever you do and to have a fulfilling life.

    You might expect that life after graduation will be completely different from your life in high school. For some of you, this might be true. You might decide to get married or to move to a different country or a different city. Suddenly, you’ll have to make your own decisions about your future, and even if your parents help, you’ll be responsible for your own life. You’ll be an adult.

    For at least the first while, your new freedom might seem very exciting. If you decide to go out and get a job, the freedom of having money might be a lot of fun. You might decide to get a job right away working in the retail or service industries. You might decide to go to university to become a doctor or teacher or go to a vocational school for a career in a trade.

    If you choose to work right after graduation, you might find that your job is a lot like high school. You’ll have to get to work on time and stay for the whole day unless you have a special reason to leave. If you miss work too often without a good excuse, you might lose your job.

    If you choose to continue with your education, you might find that your instructors pay little attention to whether or not you attend classes. You could attend only the first and last classes and still get good marks. However, you’ll still have to take all of the tests and complete all of the assignments if you want to pass the course. The professors likely won’t watch over you the same way teachers do in high school, but they’ll still expect you to get your work done.

    One thing that will likely stay the same after high school is the types of people you meet. Whether at work or in university, you’ll find the same mixture of friendly or unfriendly people, helpful or unhelpful, tense or relaxed. You will probably also remain much the same. Different situations might bring out skills and interests you never knew you had. However, your basic character will probably remain unchanged. That’s why it’s important to begin thinking about not just what you want to do, but what kind of person you want to be.

    Does life after high school sound like the kind of life you already have or like an exciting adventure that is opening up? In the end, both of these possibilities might be true. Use this opportunity to be everything you’ve always wanted to be.

  • Student Debt: Your New BFF

    Student Debt: Your New BFF

    Debt is a four letter word that should not be feared.

    Students who learn how to manage debt during university are paying themselves a great investment. You may be hearing horror stories of friends of friends who are paying off student loans years after graduation. Even the media pitches in and tells tales of students with debt so large that it seems unlikely they will ever pay off.

    No one wants to start out in life saddled with debt, but this could really be the best thing you do for yourself.

    Good Debt vs. Bad Debt
    A $1000 handbag or watch from your favourite designer is bad debt. $1000 towards books and supplies is good debt. Debt that goes towards something that will benefit you in the future is fine. Using borrowed money to earn your degree will only guarantee yourself a chance to earn much more than someone without a degree or diploma.

    Dr. Richard Settersten and Barbara E. Ray’s book Not Quite Adults highlights this fact – Taking on a little debt for a bigger payoff down the road is smart. Settersten and Ray also shared Nobel Laureate Milton Friedman’s advice: people should borrow the most early on when their earnings are the smallest, save a lot when they are in their highest earning years in mid-life and then start spending all those savings after they retire.

    Be Realistic
    BMO Financial Group surveyed students across Canada and found that half believe that they will graduate with zero or less than $10,000 debt. This doesn’t quite match up with the findings from Statistics Canada, which states the average student graduates with $18,800 in debt. Be realistic when you’re borrowing money and always know how much you’ve taken out and how much you’re spending.

    Be Strategic
    Arthur Chan, who took out Canada Student Loans for fives years at Carleton University to complete his engineering degree, graduated with a debt of $21,000. He wasn’t able to find a job in his field until 8 months after graduation. Now, 2 years into in a full-time position with the Government of Canada, that massive loan is all but a distant memory. How did he do it?

    Just because you’re able to borrow a large amount of money doesn’t mean you have to spend all of it. Arthur lived at home during university and took public transportation everyday to keep costs low. He also worked part-time retail jobs during summer vacations. When he wasn’t able to find a job right away, he applied for interest relief on his student loans. Once he was able to secure a job, he used his earnings to get rid of the debt as quickly as possible. The key is to learn how to save as much as you’re able to borrow.

    With tuition costs rising across Canada, sometimes adding everything up really discourages prospective students. Don’t let debt deter you from getting the education you want.

    Remember: education is a right, not a privilege.

  • Choosing Your Perfect Post-Secondary Program

    Choosing Your Perfect Post-Secondary Program

    No more writing poetry or reading and interpreting novels for the math enthusiasts, no more complex scientific equations for the creative writers, no more arts or drama classes for the scientists. The time has come to pick a college or university program geared toward your interests and future goals.

    In high school you were given the opportunity to pick elective courses. Perhaps you took philosophy or sociology, a language course, physical education, music, culinary arts, or history to satisfy your need for something more exciting than interpreting a symbol in a novel or solving for ‘x.’ 


    College and university allow students to choose a program suited to their interests, strengths and career goals, allowing much more enjoyment than a couple of elective courses. For students interested in science, they have an opportunity to specialize and expand on their high school studies by developing hands-on skills or theoretical knowledge to succeed in a specific area of scientific study.

    There are opportunities to study social work, child studies, journalism or advertising, film and media, culinary arts, business, engineering, architecture, dental, law, event planning and countless more.

    Finding programs that are of interest to you likely won’t be an issue. To help narrow down the list of programs you will apply to, investigate career opportunities and the likelihood of finding employment in your fields of interest. For example, you wouldn’t want to pursue a Bachelor of Arts and major in English without first knowing how many career opportunities it affords.

    Ensuring that you graduate from college prepared to enter the workforce is essential. Is there a demand for the position you’re interested in taking? Do you meet the admission requirements? Are you content with your potential income? If you choose to pursue additional education, are there opportunities?

    Choosing a program is an exciting part of post-secondary education. Look for a program that interests you, builds on your current strengths, has exciting career opportunities you’re interested in pursuing and promises a future you’re excited about working toward.

  • Media Release: Opening Doors for Aboriginal Students

    Media Release: Opening Doors for Aboriginal Students

    Canada’s universities recently launched a new online tool to provide Aboriginal students with better access to information on programs and services on campuses across Canada. The comprehensive, searchable database of resources designed to meet the needs of Aboriginal students was developed by the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada.

    Prospective students and their families can use the tool to find information on the 286 different academic programs designed for Aboriginal students and other helpful resources available at Canadian universities, such as financial assistance, housing, cultural activities, counselling, availability of Elders, gathering spaces and mentoring.

    Aboriginal youth are one of the fastest growing segments of the Canadian population. There are more than 560,000 Aboriginals under the age of 25 across Canada, yet the university completion rate for the Aboriginal population overall is eight percent — a third of the national average.

    “The education gap in this country is large and growing. This needs to change,” said AUCC President Paul Davidson. “Canada’s universities recognize this and have significantly boosted the culturally relevant curricula, support programs and financial aid available to Aboriginal students. With this database, it’s easier than ever to locate and access these services.”

    This new online resource is part of universities’ ongoing efforts to improve access to university for Aboriginal students and help them achieve success in higher education. Fifty-five institutions now have gathering spaces for Aboriginal students, and more than 60 organize social and cultural activities. In addition to supports on campus, many universities have successful outreach programs in Aboriginal communities, providing educational support and mentoring opportunities to students starting as early as the elementary level.

    “I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the AUCC for creating an online directory to assist students in finding and accessing the programs and services that are reflective of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit languages and cultures, as well as those resources that will assist them in the achievement of their university goals,” said Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations in Canada.

    The web-based directory is an enhanced update of a print version that AUCC produced in 2006 and 2010. It will be regularly updated to reflect new and enhanced services for Aboriginal students at Canada’s universities. The database complements information in the Directory of Canadian Universities, published every year by AUCC.

    Aboriginal education is an ongoing priority for Canada’s universities. AUCC’s 2013 pre-budget submission to the federal government calls for increased postsecondary scholarships for Aboriginal students, with funding to be matched by the private sector. AUCC has also undertaken significant steps in recent years to help universities identify, develop and share ideas on best practices for services aimed at Aboriginal youth.

    The new directory of programs and services for Aboriginal students can be found here: www.aucc.ca/Aboriginal-directory.

    AUCC is the national voice of Canada’s universities, representing 95 Canadian public and private not-for-profit universities.

  • Waiting To Choose Your Major

    Waiting To Choose Your Major

    Your first year of university or college is going to be stressful for a lot of reasons. It’s a time when many of your life skills will be put to the test. You’ll break boundaries and rebuild, only to break them down again. Your academic life will probably demand most of your time with course work, lectures, labs, research projects and more. It will all seem overwhelming at first, and to combat that feeling you might feel pressured to be proactive – to get things done and get them out of the way as soon as you can. Caught up in the confusing whirlwind that is school, new friends and living on your own, you might feel like you need to make your decisions right away without taking the time to ask questions and really consider what those decisions might lead to in the future. One of those decisions is choosing a major or minor.

    When applying to universities, most will offer the option of applying to a specific degree program. The decision you make there isn’t set in stone and it’s important not to treat it that way. Most universities will give you until your third or fourth year to change your major or minor if you need to.

    In your first year, you’ll be taking some of the courses required in the major you chose initially. This is a good time to get a feel of what the coursework in your program will be like in the future. That said, most first year courses will barely scratch the surface as far as what that program is really about. Taking a couple of second year courses in your second semester of first year will give you a clearer picture. If you find your original program isn’t something you’re interested in anymore, it might be time to change your major. However, you should hold off on that decision until you have a better idea of what you do want to learn. Remember: most universities will give students at least until third year to declare a major.

    Most programs will allow taking courses from other disciplines provided you still meet the requirements of your original program. Keep in mind the suggested course schedules for first year tend to have a large amount of open spots which you can use to take courses outside your program that you might be interested in while still staying on track to complete your current major.

    If, while at university, you find yourself doubting your academic path, make an appointment with an academic program counsellor. Ask them about taking courses outside your major and figure out where your academic boundaries are set. You’ll be paying thousands of dollars for higher learning, so you might as well learn the skills you’re most interested in.

  • Taking A Year Off

    Taking A Year Off

    If You’re Not Ready, It’s OK

    Post-secondary education costs a lot of money and most students leave with a hefty debt to pay off as they start their professional careers. This debt is harder to deal with if a student chooses to leave their program or is forced to drop out.

    While continuing your education is a great way to guarantee future career success and open the door to higher paying jobs, not everyone is prepared to go immediately following high school.

    Many students experience nervousness as they try to plan for their future and choose an educational institution and program suited to their wants and future goals, but some students have greater concern and need more time to discover themselves and decide what they want from life before they enrol. 



    There is no harm in taking time off to ensure you take the program best suited to your wants and needs. Perhaps after taking a year off to work and reflect, you’ll take the program you thought you’d take in high school – but it’s still better to take the time and ensure you’re prepared to invest the effort needed for success.

    Some students take a year off and work to earn money to pay for their education. Others travel and develop worldly experience, while others upgrade a course or two. There are plenty of options available. Going to school for thirteen to fourteen years straight does not always allow time to reflect on future goals and fully explore the options available. Taking some needed time off, even short-term, can help afford those thoughts.

    Remember that taking a year off does not mean leaving forever. There are always opportunities to return to school. If you’re looking for time off but a year seems like too long, look into January or May-start programs to return to school in less time.

  • Choosing A Post-Secondary Institution

    Choosing A Post-Secondary Institution

    So many colleges and universities to choose from, so hard to pick just one! 


    When entering the final year of high school, sometimes earlier for students eager to plan their post-secondary studies and reach their educational goals, it’s time to start thinking about where you will continue your education.

    With what feels like countless schools fighting for your application, it may feel overwhelming and laborious to find the one suited to your needs, but it doesn’t have to be. Take advantage of school visits, academic calendars, and individual institution websites to start investigating the options available to you.

    It’s important to prioritize and determine what you need most from your post-secondary education. You’ll likely already know if you’re interested in attending college or university, based on your program choices throughout high school, but there are plenty of other things to consider. 



    Would you like to stay at home instead of dealing with the added stresses of paying rent, living in residence, or moving away? Does the institution you’d like to attend offer a program suited to your interests and future career goals? Do you require additional services and supports during your studies? Are you interested in participating in varsity sports or other extra-curricular activities? Will you be searching for on-campus employment?

    By knowing what you want, you have a clear checklist to keep in mind when speaking with recruiters or tackling the mountain of academic calendars. If you’re having difficulties determining a program suited to your interests and career goals, meet with your high school guidance counsellor for additional assistance.

    It is important to also keep in mind that you’re not restricted to applying to only one institution. If you’re stuck between a few institutions or have a few programs that have piqued your interest, you have the opportunity to apply to more than one. Having more opportunities to choose from and more schools offering you admission into their programs is never a bad thing.

    Regardless of your future goals, there’s a post-secondary institution certain to meet your needs. By taking the time to research and understand your priorities, you’re sure to reach success wherever you go. 



  • Diploma vs. Degree – What’s Best For Me?

    Diploma vs. Degree – What’s Best For Me?

    Deciding where to continue your educational journey after high school can be difficult.

    With countless options available, including different credentials, areas of study and employment prospects, it may feel like there’s no right choice. Proper research, knowledge, and contemplation can ease insecurities by guiding you toward your best option.

    One of the first decisions to make regarding post-secondary education is whether to pursue a diploma, degree, or both. It’s important to first understand the difference between the two credentials.

    In Ontario, for example, there are two types of diplomas – a two-year Ontario College diploma and a three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma. A diploma program helps develop the foundational knowledge and skills required for success in a variety of applied positions by utilizing hands-on, real-world experiences.

    Diploma programs cover a wide-range of subject areas including Dental Hygiene, Broadcasting, Human Resources, Computer Programming, Web Development, Lab Technician, Culinary Management, and more.

    Colleges also offer apprenticeship certificates, one-year introductory or general certificates, and graduate certificates, which offer accelerated hands-on learning for applicants with previous education or significant work experience.

    Universities offer a variety of undergraduate degree-completion opportunities for students entering direct from high school, including a Bachelor degree, three years, and an Honours Bachelor Degree, four years.

    A three-year Bachelor degree helps develop a broad theoretical knowledge in at least one area of study. An Honours degree, four years in length, allows students to build a more specialized knowledge which can be applied toward research studies and final papers and projects.

    Examples of university programs include Kinesiology, Business Administration, Engineering, Veterinary Medicine, Anthropology, Astronomy, Psychology, and more.

    Following completion of a Bachelor Degree, students can enter the work force or continue to earn a Master or Doctoral degree.

    Some colleges also offer Bachelor Degrees, but they are generally offered in more applied areas that a university does not typically offer programming in, such as Interior Design, Advertising and Fashion.

    Most areas of study can be offered at both a college and university level. To investigate the best option for you, research career prospects and investigate what credentials are required for your desired career. You can also visit job boards and fairs or speak with people in the industry.

    One of the biggest differences between post-secondary studies at a college or university level is cost. Tuition typically ranges from $3000 to $4000 per year in a college compared to $5000 to $8000 per year at a university.

    To overcome the obstacle of finances and stand above the competition in the job market, many students pursue both a diploma and degree through established agreements developed between colleges and universities. This means transferring their completed diploma to receive advanced standing with a university, ranging from several courses to more than a year. This allows you to earn both a diploma and degree in less time than normal and at less cost.

    There is no generic right answer. To choose whether a diploma or degree is best for you, research the options available and know that you’re never stuck. You can always pursue further credentials.

  • Why Choose a School Far Away From Home?

    Why Choose a School Far Away From Home?

    Discerning where to continue your education after high school is a major life decision. The first question to ask yourself is whether you want to stay home, close to the comforts of your current lifestyle, or if you are willing to take a bold step and move elsewhere. When you attend a university or college far from home, the majority of what you learn happens outside of the classroom.

    Maturity
    At a university or college far from home, you will be away from the watchful eyes of the parents or guardians who led you through high school. You will face new kinds of peer pressure and have the freedom to choose how to balance your social life with your school life. You will be free to stay out all night long celebrating on weekday nights with your friends and you alone will have to face the consequences of your actions.

    Sociability
    Moving away from home means you will have to temporarily leave your circle of friends behind during the school year. The distance will not only make you appreciate each other more, but it will also mean your classes will be filled with new faces, all of whom are potential new friends.

    Respect for others
    Whether the stranger you share a dorm room with becomes one of your closest friends or drives you completely crazy, you will still have the perfect opportunity to learn how to share a space with another person. You might discover you have a whole host of new pet peeves, but you might also learn quickly how to successfully deal with them.

    Health consciousness
    Establishing a healthy and balanced diet can be just as important for succeeding in post-secondary education as studying for your exams. If your new school provides an “all-you-care-to-eat” buffet-style meal hall, you will need to learn how to have discretion in your choices.

    Time-management
    Or perhaps you choose to cook for yourself. Sometimes you will have to squeeze in three classes, two labs, a trip to the grocery store and time to cook dinner all into a single day. And that’s before you hit the books and get through all the readings you will have to have done for the next day.

    The first year of post-education can be arguably much more difficult than later years because that is when students transition into their new lifestyles. The learning curve is sharp and the work load is heavy. Many first year classes act as introductions to topics so there is often a huge amount of daily readings and assignments for students to do. But always keep in mind that the harder a challenge is, the more satisfying it will feel to overcome it.

  • Why Get a Bachelor of Arts Degree?

    Why Get a Bachelor of Arts Degree?

    People often wonder what the point is of getting a Bachelor of Arts degree. After all, there are no obvious career paths out there for history or anthropology majors. You don’t just graduate with a degree in philosophy and immediately become a professional philosopher, unlike a trade program where you graduate from an engineering program and immediately become an engineer. Even though you might have doubts, a BA will help you in the job market and in other ways that you may never have thought about.

    There are many jobs out there that require a university degree. I spent a year teaching in Seoul, South Korea, for example. Having a university degree was the only requirement to get an interview. My year in Seoul was one of the best experiences of my life and it led me to further teaching and travel opportunities. Other people are also able to find work in their area of interest right out of university; some psychology majors get work in labs, for example. Many other jobs don’t strictly require a university education, but like to see an applicant who has a degree. This is particularly important when there are many people competing for one position.

    There are reasons employers looks for university graduates. A Bachelor of Arts degree can get you things that are impossible to measure, such as teaching you how to think critically. Getting through a university class isn’t about knowing all the right answers – it’s about figuring out how to think for yourself and express your ideas. It can be a lot of work, but it’s work that you’re doing to improve yourself and not just to get a diploma.

    When you’re feeling tired and a deadline is coming up, writing an essay feels like a nuisance. But as you write you’re learning how to put together a solid argument. You’ll find that the more essays you write and the more advanced your courses get, the better you will become at expressing yourself. You can learn to analyze things in detail and get a clearer view of the big picture. These are skills that are useful and highly desirable to potential employers.

    Studying in university also teaches you to manage your time well and to take responsibility. You and you alone are responsible for whether or not you go to class or do your assignments and how much effort you put into them. University helps to set you on track for things you want to do. You can take those four years to learn what you love. Some people fall in love with a particular course or area and go on to get a PhD. Other people don’t have such a clear path to their dreams, but they still gain a lot of experience and knowledge.

    A university degree is a lot of work and if you think it’s not for you, that’s fine. If you want to go to a technical college and become an electrician, you should go for it. Just make sure you do what you like and you’ll find out where you want to be.