Bishop's University Blogs

Hello BU! Thinking of getting some travelling done, travel the world, see the sights…. STOP! … and read this first. I am travelling to Australia on exchange, so this is my guide to how to travel on a flight that’s longer than a Buffy marathon (Now I just KNOW someone will say this is a bad example so: Firefly marathon? Better? I thought as much).

First, have duplicates of all of your essential paperwork. And have it in a separate piece of luggage, and/or at home with someone who checks their phone messages or e-mail more than once a month. This may seem tedious or unnecessary, but is SO worth it if anything should happen.

Next bring something to do on the plane. I’m hoping that there are the cool in seat personal movie screens but just in case I have: charged my Ipod, gotten audiobooks, brought “go fish” cards, brought a head pillow, and sudoku puzzles. Also food is WONDERFUL. There’s nothing better than getting through customs and having chocolate.

Pack light! I read MANY backpacking websites that all said “pack your bags, then take half your clothes out”. Now, that is easier said than done I know. While I am currently feeling like I’ll be wearing one shirt for my 5 months in Australia I am also sure there will be shopping and I will be thankful my bags aren’t full when I have to bring back a whole bunch of souvenirs.

Bring CANADIAN things. Currently I am bringing 5 L of maple syrup, maple candies, Canada pins, a Canada sweater, and a huge Canadian flag. Ok, maybe I went a bit overboard, but at least they’ll know I’m Canadian

Have at least your first few days planned, so that when you get off your 30 hours of travel you don’t have to stress about finding a place to sleep or transit from the airport.

Finally, have FUN! Travelling is an adventure! I mean, how many times in your life will you be able to travel to Japan, or France, or ? Make the best of it! Bishop’s is unique in it’s ample opportunities to go on exchange, and pay BU tuition – so if you are thinking about going on exchange DO IT! Because it is exciting. I should know, I’m sitting in Pearson Airport waiting for my flight. See you in Oz!

G’day Mates!

Hey everyone!

I am relatively new to this blogging thing (my only experience being the blogs I wrote for the Frosh Week 2010 Special) – but I am excited to be writing again! For those of you that don’t know who I am, I’ll give you a quick introduction…

My name is Lauren, but here at Bishop’s, I usually respond to “Lo.” I’m from Halifax, and I am a second year Gaiter. I am working towards a major in Political Studies with a double minor in International Studies and Religion.

Why I’m really blogging right now though, is to tell you about what I’ve got going on this semester! I’m taking some really wicked classes, including International Law & Human Rights, Canadian Foreign Policy, and (why I’m really writing), the United Nations Practicum course. With that said, I’ll dive right into some details of the UN Practicum, and my experience so far!

Last semester, a call went out to Politics students who were interested in participating in the UN Practicum. A team was to be chosen to participate in the 2012 National Model United Nations (NMUN) in New York. I have always been very interested in the workings of the UN, but to have the chance to travel to NY in April for NMUN and receive credits for it was an added bonus! I’ll skip over all the boring details, but after an interview and a little bit of time, I was fortunate enough to be chosen for the team.

Preparing for NMUN is no small task. There are rules upon rules to learn – from the procedural workings of a UN meeting to the actual stance the country I am representing has on certain issues. Many universities (schools from all over the world) have been preparing for months already! In order to prepare, we will be taking classes, and participating in Quebec Model United Nations, as well as a series of simulations alongside L’Université de Sherbrooke. I experienced my first simulation last Monday night, where my partner and I represented Ethiopia. To be very honest, I was a bit overwhelmed. There is a kind of organized chaos about the whole process. However, dressed in business formal and looking confident, I did my best to keep in mind that I probably wasn’t the only one who was slightly intimidated by the process. By the end of the simulation, I had gained a sense of how it all worked, and acquired knowledge that will be valuable for my next simulation, which will take place tomorrow night.

Once April rolls around and we are in NY, BU will be representing Australia. Each set of partners has been assigned to represent a different UN committee from Australia’s point of view. My partner and I will be representing the Commission for Narcotic Drugs. While the class is proving to be a lot of hard work, I am very excited, and I am confident that the work will pay off through the knowledge I am gaining from the experience.

Should anything exciting, shocking or interesting occur in the coming months of my NMUN days, I’ll be sure to blog about it for any of you interested in my adventures!

Cheers,
Lo

I don’t mean to sound like every other student out there, but here it goes: why is my undergrad going by so quickly? It’s my second week of the winter semester and I can hardly believe I’m almost halfway done. No wonder people go to grad school. Shout out to all of our wonderful alum: what would you recommend doing after your undergrad?

Some people have suggested traveling, which sounds nice. Except that I will probably be a littttle too in debt for that. I guess that’s what exchanges are for! I am currently going through the exchange process. I’m headed to the bustling metropolis of Regina, SK. My goal is to gain employment in the homeland when I’ve completed my undergrad so I am looking forward to taking classes at home. There are a TON of Sociology classes to pick from. I’m particularly interested in Sociology of Disaster.

For those who are a little more adventurous, there are a ton of other options. I’ve written about the exchange program before (http://blog.ubishops.ca/blog/?p=1288). From what I have heard, it is an amazing experience. Bishop’s is the perfect place if you’re interested in going on an exchange. We have a variety of partnerships to suite your needs. Being at a smaller school, you won’t have to climb over people in order to be accepted for the exchange.

Some things to note:
1.) Doing an exchange is a great way to expand your world view (new surroundings, language, people, and educational experience)
2.) You pay your Bishop’s tuition in the normal manner
3.) Any student with a cumulative GPA of 70% who has completed 30 credits in a degree program at Bishop’s is eligible to apply
4.) You can pick up an application from Lillian Rogerson (McGreer Hall, 2nd floor, beside admissions)
5.) The deadline is FEBRUARY 15.

Anywho, I am currently on the letter of intent part of my application. After writing and rewriting the first sentence about thirteen times I’ve decided a break is in order. My breaks include reading novels. I selected some very reading-intensive courses this semester. Bad idea? Maybe if you hate reading. Not me, folks. I am in a love/hate relationship with this semester. While staying up until 2 am to finish a book is nice, waking up early for class is not. My course load includes three sociology courses and two journalism courses. I can’t wait to get back into my groove.

If you went on exchange, are on exchange, have thought about exchange or just want to chat, post a comment or send me an e-mail (edemyen10@ubishops.ca).

Until next time,
Emily

Now that Christmas has passed your bank account may be lacking some funds. Interested in working full-time this summer and don’t know where to start? The Career & Employment Centre offers different services which are included in your Student Services fees. If you click the Student Services link on the BU website you can meander your way to the Career & Employment page. You can look at job postings and job searching tips.

They offer certain workshops which can help you figure out the big question in university (What am I doing with my life?). A workshop I attended earlier this semester was quite helpful. We did several personality tests and other aptitude tests. From there, we were able to make individual appointments to go over our results and hopefully direct our paths according to the careers we were interested in.

I recommend applying for the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) if you are looking for a range of job opportunities. Once you complete the application process your resume is submitted to a job bank. You will be selected to apply for certain positions depending on your skills and field of study. Last summer, I was selected to apply for a summer position with Service Canada. Some job requirements included helping citizens find jobs and general office duties. The application process is straight-forward and worth it. Working for the government is a great way to make good money and get some experience in your field. Also, once you submit your application you can relax and wait to hear back. The only drawback to these positions is that the applications are due soon.
You can also check out your provincial government for their summer employment programs. I applied for a similar format (a job bank) with my own government. Either way, it’s always nice to have an idea of where you might be working this summer. I’m not sure about anyone else but it was a relief knowing that I had a well-paying job lined up for the summer. Some of my friends waited until the beginning of May to search for similar job opportunities and were left rather discouraged.

Good luck on the job hunt and hopefully you end up doing something relatively enjoyable. Working is a lot different than student life. Hope you’re all enjoying the break!

Emily

Hey everyone! Now that finals are underway everyone is suddenly not sleeping, eating, or working. Just kidding. Kind of. Personally, I worked hard throughout the semester so that finals would not be the death of me. Luckily, I only have one final. I just happen to have a trillion papers. Welcome to the Arts, kids. If you’ve been to the library lately you’ll be able to realize it’s kind of a gathering spot. You may or may not have seen me lounging in the lobby complaining about all the work I have to do. I’ve created a few tips to get you through exams. They work for me, but may not help you. My roommate, Sofie, is content to stay up until 9 a.m. doing work. Me? Not so much.
Here they are:
1.) Get some sleep. Anything you try to absorb will vanish from your mind if you aren’t sleeping. Obviously coffee and energy drinks can extend your studying window a little more but please, if there’s one thing you do, get some rest. It’s definitely worth it.
2.) Pack some snacks. I don’t exactly follow this. In fact, I’m pretty sure I’ve spent more money at Tim Horton’s and Doolittle’s than I have on groceries in quite some time. It’s nice to bring some healthy snacks or comfort food from home. Sure your backpack is going to weigh more than a pregnant elephant, but it will be worth it. Plus, you can count the trek to the library as exercise. That counts, doesn’t it? Some ideas for snacks include: almonds, fruit, vegetables (if you’re into that sort of thing, bleh), granola bars, pb&j sandwiches, and a thermos with soup. DO NOT bring loud snacks (carrots, rustle-y bags of anything) and sit near me because I will give you dirty looks.
3.) Wear something comfortable. This is exam time; it’s perfectly acceptable to wear leggings/sweats/wind pants/yoga pants/pajamas/onesies/whatever every single day. I have worn jeans once in the last two weeks and only because we had a Christmas party. Rock the slippers (I prefer the knitted ones your grandma probably made), sweaters, and soft t-shirts. Skip the make-up because, let’s be honest, you’re beautiful without it! Also, you’re in the library for twelve hours and it may feel gross after a ten minutes. Guys, I know Movember is over, but let the scruff do its thing. After a month of your patchy facial hair, we’re all used to it anyways.
4.) Don’t stress yourself out. Realistically, finals will not be the death of you. If they are, you need to reevaluate your life, or work harder during the semester. Truth hurts. Take a few deep breaths and remember that once they’re done, you have several weeks of lounging in your Snuggie and hanging out with your family. Also, you will have free food and unlimited internet access. Now isn’t that worth all of the late nights and anxiety?
5.) Do it now. Don’t check Facebook 600 times before you even open Word. Open your textbook or notebook and grab a highlighter. Read for at least ten minutes. You can do it. Once you get started, you’re golden.

Best of luck and enjoy the break!

Emily D.

I was lucky enough to be selected as the Multimedia/Communications Intern for this school year. Some tasks include: managing our social media sites, participating in meetings, and becoming familiar with the school’s happenings. All summer I kept reminding myself I deserved the position, and positive thinking really paid off.
My advice to anyone looking for a job in the future is to give your application a voice. My sister went to school for Human Resources and always placed emphasis on coming across as a ‘real’ person. At Bishop’s, it’s especially important to make your voice heard. You have so many opportunities and platforms to get your message across; it would be a shame to waste it.
I dare each and every one of you to do something you wouldn’t normally do this year. Go swimming, take a crazy elective, make your bed every day. For me, my daring thing was applying for the internship. I honestly didn’t believe I would ever be selected, yet here I am. Bishop’s isn’t the place where you get to sit in your room and avoid human contact. Lennoxville won’t let you do that. Trust me, I’ve tried during exams. Even then, it’s impossible. The best part of the ‘Ville is that those people that harass you to hang out would do anything for you! Don’t let that go to waste.
I’ve been feeling very gung-ho about cherishing the ones you love. Being away from home is making me antsy to return. After watching the movie Country Strong, I came to a realization. After experiencing how great community life is, I have to move to the same kind of place when I’m done school. Lucky for me, where I was born and raised happens to fit into that mold. While all of my friends are off adventuring, I am anticipating prairie life. Challenge yourself and dream big, but don’t be ashamed if your dreams aren’t rock-climbing in Peru. I want to live in a pretty little house (preferably in the country), and get to work from my pretty little office. Pretttty barbaric, eh? There’s nothing wrong with wanting a simple life. I’m happy that this school has guided me in the direction; albeit different than most.
If you’re considering Bishop’s, consider what I’ve said. Ask yourself if you want the opportunity to apply for some really sick internships that will prepare you for the field you’re interested. Ask yourself if you would want to spend a few afternoons doing a career workshop with five other people. Ask yourself if you want to make a difference. Chances are, you will. Timing is everything folks, don’t pass up any chance to do something extraordinary.

Hellloooo! Everyone is getting back into the swing of things. Entering second year, I had my own worries. As mentioned before, I had some anxiety regarding living on my own, cooking my own meals and all of that jazz. I was also a little anxious about class. To my surprise, everything is going very well. My mom has always encouraged me to cook supper (so she wouldn’t have to). On the days that I’m too lazy to make a real meal or failed to prepare ahead of time, I find myself endulging in some cereal and tea. Maybe that will help me work off the Freshman 15 (25, if we’re being honest) I gained? Just kidding.

I’m pretty excited about my classes this semester. I’m taking my first English class this fall – Journalism. So far, I think I’m in love. Potentially a new minor? Bishop’s has such great profs in every faculty. As I branch out of Sociology, I’m beginning to see why everyone promotes taking different classes. I find that the themes and frameworks apply to my field as well. I’ve also decided to take on four class as opposed to five. I would recommend it for anyone who finds themselves spread a little too thin between five classes and activities outside of the classroom. One of my favourite things about Bishop’s is back in action. THE CAMPUS. Everyone should submit a piece of writing. DO IT. It’s a great way to practice your writing, take advantage of your ability to voice your thoughts and to connect with the BU community. You can email thecampus.editor@gmail.com if you want to see what’s happening in the next issue and see how you can contribute.

Apart from class and being busy do the whole living, most students have just been settling back into their routines. Going to the gym, eating healthier and working harder seem to be pretty common resolutions among students. It’s almost like New Year’s resolutions. I’m kind of a flake when it comes to going to the gym, I’m not going to lie. So, a few of my friends and I decided to sign up for a class. The Recreation & Aquatic Program is a great way to commit to a class and get some exercise. In-person registration is officially open and I encourage everyone to at least check out the programs. If you want to see the different classes being offered, visit  http://www.ubishops.ca/recreation/index.html. You can register in the Sportsplex at the control desk (downstairs). Today is the last day (Sept. 15th) so try and get there before 10:00 p.m.

I hope you’re all enjoying the first few weeks of school before it becomes stressful again. I’m addicted to my calendar and agenda and I suggest that you guys follow suit. It’s super helpful!

Take care,

Emily

Hey Gaiters!

In my previous blog I explained that it’s important to be an involved student in order to get the most out of your Bishop’s experience. Now I’d like to go a bit more in depth about how you can get involved on campus and explain one particular aspect of campus life specifically, that is on the one hand unknown to the majority of Gaiters and on the other is misunderstood by the rest.

What I’m talking about is Greek Life, fraternities and sororities. Bishop’s does have an active Greek Life and it’s an opportunity that more students should really take advantage of. Choosing to be involved in a fraternity can give you a big boost in your post graduate career and open doors for you that would otherwise be closed.

Before I go in depth about this aspect of Bishop’s life I want talk about how getting involved in things like this can shape your future and what employers are looking for when they receive a résumé. In the current economic market, especially south of the border, there are hundreds of people competing for the same job. Therefore, you need to have some experiences on your résumé that make you stand out from the crowd. Things that make you stand out from the rest are things like charity work, leadership experience; if you want to work in business then experience with budgets is important.

One thing in the mind of an employer that can be the most important decider in the question as to whether you get hired or a pass is references. If you can get a good reference from a friend who has made a big name for themselves, then that can make a huge impression on a potential employer. Bishops has many alumni who have becoming quite successful and affluent after graduation and it all started for them by being involved on campus as an undergrad.

Several Bishop’s alumni that have been members of Greek Life have gone on to be teachers, entrepreneurs, coaches, and high level bank executives. Being a member of the same fraternity or sorority as men and women such as these can give you common ground that you will automatically share, just by being a member of the same Greek organization.

The second issue that I want to cover with this blog is the modern perception of fraternities that permeates popular culture. The whole “Animal House” preconception of fraternities, while funny, is complete crap. The one fraternity at Bishop’s, Sigma Chi, is a values based organization, whose main focus is to promote values like accountability, co-operation and good learning habits through community service and other volunteer work. I know this because I am a member and the president of the Iota Rho Chapter of the Sigma Chi fraternity at Bishop’s.

My personal experience has been entirely positive. I came to Bishop’s as a person who was low on self confidence, I was shy, and I was looking for a place to fit in on Bishop’s campus. I never thought that I would ever be a Fraternity Brother, let alone the president of my chapter, but now I am. I’m so different from the person that I was when I came to Bishop’s. I’m confident, I know how to be a leader and I know that I’ve made a positive impact on the campus, and on the Lennoxville community. I am writing this blog, because I want to share that experience with as many people as I can. I know that my fraternity Sigma Chi can make a positive impact in your life as it has mine.

If you’re a young man at Bishop’s, or are coming to Bishop’s I suggest that you look into the Iota Rho Chapter of Sigma Chi yourself. Or if you’re a young woman coming to Bishop’s you should look into our “female fraternity” (more commonly known as a sorority, but I’m told that this is incorrect) Alpha Phi. Do your own research and don’t rely on the information you get from movies or second hand, make your own decisions, because the ones you make now are some of the most important and could change your life forever.

If you want to learn more about Greek Life at BU or just about BU in general send me an email: nikseebruch@hotmail.com!

See you in the Fall!

Nick Seebruch,

President

Iota Rho Chapter of Sigma Chi

Class of 2012

Summer school is out. Lennoxville’s population is at its yearly low point. And the mighty Massawippi is looking pretty dry these days. This is the time I have chosen to return to Bishop’s. Despite the lack of activity, I came back in town last week for a different event – the wedding of my English professor.

Dr. Riddell is the English department’s specialist in all things concerning early English literature. Anything written before 1700 is her turf. First year English majors will encounter her in their foundational year course in Literary Tradition, this fall. This is how I first met her, a year ago.

As a Film, Media and Cultural studies student, I was very apprehensive of her course. I had to take it for my major, but it is about as far removed from my interests in English as you can get. However, somewhere between the small classroom size and her own passion in what she was teaching, Dr. Riddell managed to sell me the course content. Her class was my favorite in my first semester. During the second semester, I was no longer in her classroom. I interacted with her in departmental meetings, where I was the first year student representative. I also attended her STEP series, weekly seminars she organizes to give students tools and resources to excel in their academic career. Finally, I met with Dr. Riddell on a regular basis to manage the marketing committee of QUEUC, the undergraduate conference she initiated and which is now going into its third year.

It was during QUEUC that I assisted Dr. Riddell in coordinating a few receptions at her house. Apparently impressed with my organizational skills, she offered that I tend the bar at her wedding over the summer. This is the kind of offer you cannot expect anywhere else than at Bishop’s and also the kind you don’t think twice about before accepting.

I was honored to be a part of Dr. Riddell’s special day and to assist in making the wedding reception run smoothly. Most of my night consisted of serving guests with drinks, restocking ice and making sure the tables always had enough wine. However, despite working, I was also having a great time. Dr. Riddell made a point of treating us as much as guests as student helpers. Earlier this year, she told me she wanted her wedding to take place within this exceptional community she lives in. I think she succeeded. At a Bishop’s wedding, it was impossible for me to feel like it was a working night. The guests consisted of my professors and academics and the staff were my peers and friends. It was a beautiful and intimate night, that I could not imagine having the privilege to attend before coming to this university.

When asked if she was now Mrs. Riddell, or Mrs. Burns, she promptly rectified that she was Dr. Bride, for the night. I guess names may come and go but PhDs are forever.

Good news: 49 more days until I hop on a jet plane.  Bad news: I leave on my dad’s birthday. You may have noticed from my posts that I’m a very family oriented person. I think that a lot of people at Bishop’s feel the same. I guess that’s why the “Bishop’s Family” is so crucial to most people. You know, the home away from home, small community thing everyone talks about. My little family and I are planning to have a potluck supper/BBQ once we are all back. Definitely excited for that. I recommend it for everyone! It’s a great way to catch up once everyone is back. It’s also a relaxed way to hang out before the madness known as Frosh starts.

A lot of people have been wondering what the Orientation Week entails. The Frosh coordinators this year have some excellent times arranged. Check out their Facebook page by entering “Bishop’s Frosh Week 2011: BU Twisted in Time” into the search bar. You can also visit their web page from the SRC website at http://busrc.com/wp/?page_id=266. Frosh is what you make it. If you are an introvert, do your best to talk to some new people. There is NO way you won’t make friends during Frosh. It’s a great way to get to know people in your program as well. Some events include a pep rally, field day and my personal favourite, airbands. Last year, my team’s performance didn’t exactly go as planned. We were on stage and our music wouldn’t start. We all started to sing the song. Not going to lie, it was kind of a mess but it was hilarious. Last fall I was pretty shy and it was a great way to get over that fear. My best advice for the Twisted in Time theme is to stock up on ridiculous clothes. You will likely incorporate it into a costume. You can always get in touch with the coordinators at frosh@ubishops.ca.  

I told you guys I’d fill you in on my Calgary adventure. I arrived in Calgary on Thursday, ready to stampede. Unfortunately, after an 8 hour drive and dealing with traffic (how do people cope with that?), I was exhausted. We decided to just hang out and take it easy. Over the weekend, I got another tattoo (hehe), saw some real cowboys, shopped a bit and got a SWEEEEET new belt buckle. I had a really good time! It was great to catch up with my friends. I also saw some of my Moose Jaw friends while we were out. It was cool to see Michelle in her element. I got to know her family and a very special addition to her family, her dog Ozzie.  Overall, it was a great weekend!

The fun times are over and it’s back to work, wah.