January 05, 2018

Just what do you think you're doing?

January 05, 2018/ Guest User

When it comes to college expectations, everyone's got somethin' to say. Even if they don't say it you know they're thinking it:

The parentals are expecting you to be a good student and keep up with your school work. Your friends are desperately hoping you're just as stuck as they are. Meanwhile, you have no idea what's even happening anymore. So what do college students really do with their lives?

You can only spend so many consecutive hours on school work before you need a good stiff drink.

Mom and dad are really proud of you, but they're also having nightmares of you scheming the best ways to disappoint them over a good bottle of gin.

Your friends catch wind that you were invited to a party near campus and set out to find ways to score a spot on the guest list: chat with mutual friends, casually ask you about the details after class, and eventually crash the event drink and spend the night toasting your "betrayal".

You said you would go to the event that your classmate is planning-- dreading each passing day that you actually have to do something. Eventually, you argue with yourself, make up a stupid excuse and spend your night bingeing the latest Netflix Original instead (like Stranger Things).

Sometimes due dates and work pile up because that's what happens in post-secondary education. Other times... well, we could probably work on our life-choices and time management skills.

Your parents envision you sitting at your desk, working on the paper that isn't due until next week. A little worker elf, all zen-like with a hot cup of tea.

Your friends know you're a bit behind schedule but, hell, so are they. It's nice to reward yourself with a break from time to time; you probably just left Facebook open in the background of your laptop.

You left Facebook open in the background on your laptop and fell asleep after 4 hours of non-stop gaming. You know yourself better than anyone and you will leave your homework until the day its due.

Why are you still here, reading this?
Go do your homework!

"I'm Brianna, also known as Stanley to some. I like writing stuff and I like eating stuff. My favorite past times are video games and before mentioned eating. I will be writing content to try and make this blog humorous as well as drawing. You know, art and stuff."

January 02, 2018

Post-Christmas Cooking

January 02, 2018/ Guest User

There’s gotta be more to life than budgeting for Christmas… right? Well, of course— there’s budgeting for post-Christmas (when all your money has been spent but you’ve still gotta eat).

Fear not - Crafting the College Life is here to help you out with a few delicious and cost-conscious meals to cook that don’t involve a package of ramen (or a box of Mac and Cheese). You can even serve these to your friends, or your parents *gasp* without fear of judgement.

Stir Fry: This is probably the most basic suggestion in the book, but it’s one that gets overlooked far too often. Stir Fry is a great option when you’re staring at the fridge feeling like you’ve got a whole lot of not much that goes together— call it a stash buster for your pantry. The real beauty is that it can be done on just about any type of cooktop you’ve got at your disposal (res-life hot plate, anybody?). If you can get your hands on a Wok we definitely recommend taking advantage, but in a pinch, any pan that can be brought up to high heat will do.

Don’t forget to try out different flavour profiles:

peanut butter with a splash of soy sauce and some Sriracha make for a great pseudo-peanut-schezuan offering.
if you’re into sweet-and-spicy glaze the meat in a mix of honey and Sriracha before adding veggies.

DIY Hack: Rice is the classic option to pair with Stir Fry, and it’s dirt cheap, but just in case you’re committed to the broke-student-lifestyle this would be one case where ramen noodles would be a legitimate option as well.

Chili: Can feed an army. Make it in a pot (stovetop) or in a slow cooker (while you’re trudging through classes). Always forgetting to soak the beans overnight? That’s what the canned food aisle is for!

This recipe is especially delicious and includes a can of beer. One for the pot, one for the chef, right? ;): <https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/5-can-chili/>

Curry Carrot Soup: Full disclosure this recipe will require you to have access to either a food processor or submersion blender (FYI, a submersion blender can be purchased for around $50 and is well worth the investment if you’re able to swing it). There are a lot of recipes for this type of soup around online, but I’ve toyed around and ended up with a combination/variation of a few that I’ve pretty happy with:

Ingredients:
-1 medium size onion; diced.
-1 medium size potato; peeled and diced.
-1.5 pounds carrots (I use baby carrots for the sake of convenience, but full-size work just fine once they’re peeled and chopped up).
-5-6 cups of broth (either chicken or veggie. I use water and bullion cubes)

-1/2 teaspoon cayenne
-1 teaspoon cumin
-1 1/2 tablespoons curry powder

-Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In your soup pot, over medium heat, sauté the onion in a couple tablespoons of oil (I always recommend using Olive Oil in cooking, if only for the flavour, but any kind will do the trick) until softened.
2. Add spices, salt, and pepper in with onion and oil and mix.
3. Add potato and carrots and mix so spices coat everyone evenly.
4. Pour in four cups of broth and simmer everything for 30-40 minutes (or until soft).
5. Remove from heat and use either submersion blender or food processor to puree.

DIYOS Hack: you can also use a regular blender for this, but you’ll have to let it cool completely before doing so (hot stuff in a blender leads to explosions and having to clean the ceiling).

*6. If soup is too thick, add remaining broth.
**7. And if you're feelin' fancy, it's especially delicious served with a dollop of sour cream.

Don't let your palate suffer because Christmas has drained your bank account.

Discover your inner Masterchef instead.

Growing up, Lynette told everybody who would ask that one day she was going to be either a Rock Star or a Writer. She writes a little bit of everything from song lyrics to creative nonfiction, and can usually be found with a guitar or pen in her hand. She’s still working on the Rock Star thing, but at least becoming a writer has actual job postings.

December 22, 2017

Exploring The City: Off Campus Adventures This Holiday Season

December 22, 2017/ Peyton Bisaillon

Christmas has snuck up on us. There's only a matter of days to go, classes are (finally) winding down for the time being and we all get to enjoy a nice break. A breather is in order: sit back, relax, or better yet, take some time to explore the snow-kissed city of Ottawa with family and friends, or take it in solo. It’s always nice to spend some time away from campus and forget all about work; have a little fun. Here’s a list of a couple events going on off-campus...

Christmas Lights Across Canada 2017:

What's a better way to start the holidays than standing in the glow of twinkling holiday lights? From December 7th to January 7th, starting at 7 P.M. on Parliament Hill, you can gather around and enjoy the show. Be mesmerized by the beauty of the lights, and don't forget to take an iconic holiday shot to add to your social media feed. #Light it up with this pretty and fun off-campus adventure.

Link Here: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/christmas-lights.html

Nature Nocturne:

Love museums? Love a good bar rail? Love dressing up for a night out? Well, then you don’t want to miss this amazing experience. Join the Museum of Nature with it’s Nature Nocturne: Frost - the last one of the 2017 season. This cool and amazing experience will immerse you in a world of frosty and icy adventures, while you take in the beauty of the Arctic. Learn how wildlife survives the cold and end the night hitting the dance floor with your besties. This mystical even takes place on December 29th. To find out more about the event and ticket pricing, please check out the link below.

Link Here: https://nature.ca/en/plan-your-visit/what-see-do/whats/nature-nocturne-frost

There’s plenty to take in around the city this holiday season. Don't let the cold scare you off. Throw on an extra pair of socks, a scarf and take a perfect rosy-cheeks selfie. Explore beyond your college barriers. I just listed a couple events but feel free to check this list out for other upcoming and exciting events in Ottawa!

Link Here: https://www.ottawatourism.ca/ottawa-insider/things-to-do-in-ottawa-this-weekend/

Sparkle and shine, darlings.

Known to some as Mother of Cats, but others know her as Peyton a fun-loving geek, who has an obsession with Dragon Age, Overwatch, writing, and photography. An introvert who suffers from being socially awkward. But has a passion for reading, writing short stories, cuddling cats, and late night binge watching Netflix.

December 18, 2017

4 Ways to Study Better

December 18, 2017/ Mary Jane Schauland

It all comes down to this.

In only a few weeks, you’re going to make or break the grade you’ve been working hard to get all year. So, how do you prepare yourself for a gruelling final? Here are four steps to follow so that you can get the best grade possible.

1) Organize your notes.

This one’s obvious, but where do you start? I recommend giving the Cornell Note-taking System a try. You'd typically use this method to take notes during lectures, but I’m going to show you how to use it to study.

First, divide your page like this:

Start by writing the course and topic at the top of your page.

As you go through your course notes, write down the most important information. It will fit onto your paper like so:

You can learn more here: http://lsc.cornell.edu/study-skills/cornell-note-taking-system/

2) Form a study group.

Find some close friends or a classmate you've found yourself clicking with during class discussions. Exchange notes. Create a master Google Doc. Studying is easier when you have more than one person going through a semester’s worth of material.

3) Make flashcards.

On one side, write the definition, on the other, the answer. Sounds simple, right? But what if you have complex theories to memorize or formulas? Write a prompt on one side of a cue card and write the answer on the other.

For example:

4) Quiz yourself.

I know this sounds like extra work, but hear me out. Gather some classmates and find out what topics everyone is having the most trouble with. There are websites (like https://kahoot.com/) that allow you to create your own quizzes. It’s a fun and competitive way to get everyone interested in studying.

You can also use your flashcards to quiz other people. Hold out the prompt to (or read the prompt) to your classmates and the first person to guess gets a point. Whoever had the most points at the end can win a prize (maybe a chocolate bar, or if you’re with your friends, everyone pitches in to get the winner a coffee).

Mary Jane's writing obsession started in 7th grade (writing low-quality fanfiction). Later, she discovered how to develop her own stories, and now she’s in Professional Writing at Algonquin college to take her fiction to the next level. Oh, and she’s still a huge nerd.

December 14, 2017

PRO-crastination

December 14, 2017/ Guest User

Have multiple assignments due? Haven’t started any of them? Considering dropping out and moving to Alaska? Well me too. But fear not, we have three options. Alaska can be our fall back.

1) You can get started on your work now, but I recommend going with every student’s favourite option: procrastination! Who needs to be prepared when there are so many other things you could be doing? Ever tried knitting? No? Well, with an assignment due tomorrow, this is the perfect time to learn the craft.

2) Have a chapter from your textbook to read? No better time to scroll through Facebook until four in the morning.

3) But, know what the best possible use to your time is? Head over to your neighbourhood EB Games and get yourself a copy of Overwatch: the best game for procrastinators. “Why is this video game the best way to waste time?” Because no matter how hard you try, you will never leave the rank you were placed in! Not to mention the constant salt and toxicity will just melt your stress away.

Here are a few more ideas, just in case:

Binge watch a show for the fifth time
Learn how to play an obscure instrument, like the kazoo.
Go see your aunt! You promised you'd visit last Christmas, didn't you?
Bake a chocolate cake.
Bake a non-chocolate cake for the weirdos in your family who prefer vanilla.
Eat both and drift into a food-induced coma.

The possibilities are endless!

December 10, 2017

Dreaming of a DIY Christmas

December 10, 2017/ Guest User

Somewhere between a five-week strike, rescheduled midterms and delayed finals, Christmas is sneaking up on all of us.

Christmas is expensive. Christmas on a student budget can be one of the most daunting events of the year. There’s the pressure to impress the in-laws, friends you want to make feel appreciated, and siblings who will never let you live it down if their gift isn’t perfect.

So just how do you find the perfect gift for everyone without adding onto your student debt? Turn to the DIY pages.

Paint Chip Magnets:
These make the perfect gift for anybody interested in graphic design, art, or somebody with a quirky sense of style. My personal favourite paint chips (and the ones featured in the how-to) are the coveted Pantone colours— they’ll mean something to anybody in the industry, and have a certain amount of brand status recognition— but they’re expensive to get if you don’t have a friend you can bum some off of. Alternatively, the chips you can get [for free] from the paint section of Home Depot can be just as fun— some of them have really funny names.

Check out the full tutorial from How About Orange here: https://howaboutorange.blogspot.ca/2011/03/diy-pantone-chip-magnets.html

Dinosaur Keychains:

Who doesn't love some good Pinterest inspiration? No direct tutorial for these, but they really couldn't be too much easier than they already are.

Hit up the toy aisle at the dollar store and grab a pack of plastic dinosaur toys, then make your way over to the craft aisle and choose a couple fun colours of acrylic paint, and loop-head screws from the hardware section. A couple coats of paint finished with a coat of the same glaze you used for the paint chip magnets are all it takes. Screw the loop into the top, add a split ring, and you’ve got the coolest keychain on the block.

Hot Cocoa Tubes:

Glass test tubes layered with hot chocolate powder, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy canes. Pop in the cork, and print out an instruction tag-- there's no limit to the flavour combinations.

The Crafted Life has a great tutorial for inspiration here: http://thecraftedlife.com/diy-hot-cocoa-party-favors/

Bracelets:

There is no female out there who doesn't appreciate a fun piece of jewellery that she'll be able to wear with everything.

Michael's regularly has sales on their glass and/or semiprecious beads, and if the ones you fancy aren't on a promo when you need them don't forget that Michael's always has a 40% off one regular priced item coupon that you can download from their website!

Some elastic chord and a small charm (optional) are the only other things you need to make this gift for all the special ladies on your list. Why not make a set that they can stack?

There's still a few weeks until the big day, and a little DIY time can be a great way to unwind-- pour a glass of wine, throw on a few episodes of your favourite show on Netlix.

Don't just dream of a DIY Christmas, Do it Your Own Competent Self.

December 07, 2017

We Need to Talk

December 07, 2017/ Mary Jane Schauland

Fighting depression is messy, exhausting and can leave you feeling grimy from the inside out.

You feel like you're drowning in the balancing act between school, work, and life, and you feel like you're drowning in yourself too.

You don't have to go through this alone.

Disclaimer: I am not an expert and these are only recommendations. Should you be experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health issues, please talk to your doctor, another professional or a loved one and seek help.

Where can you go to get help?

At Algonquin College

The strike means Algonquin students are faced with another "settling" period that we didn't bank on. If you haven’t already checked out the strike info page: http://www.algonquincollege.com/strikeinfo/

Emails with further details and updates will find their way into your inbox too.

You can make an appointment to speak with someone, visit a nutritionist, and find other helpful activities, apps, and resources without having to leave campus, here: http://www.algonquincollege.com/healthservices/wellness/

You can also read more about Counselling Services for Current Students here: http://www.algonquincollege.com/counselling/services-for-current-students/

In Ottawa

Walk-In Counselling: the link below will help you find the right counselling for you. They have services for a variety of ages. If you are feeling depressed and you need to talk to someone, this would be a good start to find facilities near you. http://www.ementalhealth.ca/Ottawa-Carleton/Walk-In-Counselling/index.php?m=heading&ID=442

You should also visit this website’s homepage for more information. They have Mental Health Info Sheets and other resources, including weekly tips to help you maintain a healthy mind. http://www.ementalhealth.ca/

At Home

Seek professional help first and then try these activities.

Get out of wherever you are, move around and exercise a bit if you have the energy. Go outside and look around. It can really help to change your environment.

Friends: plan a sleepover (you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy a good pyjama party). If you feel comfortable, be honest and tell your friend that you’d like to spend a night at their house because you’ve been feeling depressed or stressed. They'll probably want to help and do what they can to take care of you (just like you'd do for them if roles were reversed). It's okay to let them take the lead once in a while.

Writing a journal: Don’t know what to write? Look up some jokes that make you laugh and write those down. Make lists of things you enjoy. You can also vent in a journal. I find it helps me to get everything off my mind that’s been bothering me recently.

Getting help should always be your priority. It can seem overwhelming and scary but...

It gets easier as soon as you decide it's possible.

(PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEXELS.COM)

December 03, 2017

On-Campus Shenanigans: Stress-Free Fun For You!

December 03, 2017/ Peyton Bisaillon

We’re finally back in the classroom after an unexpected break. Assignments have piled up, the time has flown out the window and your mind is focused on making it through the semester. While school work and studies are important, so is having a little fun. Not wanting to leave campus but need a breather after long lecture? Need a refresher after hitting the books? Fear not, my dear friends, here is a list of activities coming up that you can enjoy on campus between your classes and your studies.

Thursday, December 7th: Paws 4 Stress

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Commons (E Building) room E206, you can enjoy petting adorable puppies! What better way to relieve some stress than by playing with some adorable balls of fluff? Surround yourself in a room filled with wagging tails, cute paws, happy smiles and adorable barking. Even if it’s just for a couple minutes, Paws 4 Stress is a great way to relax and a have fun. Want to know what’s great about this event? It’s for AC students and employees!

For more information check this link: http://www.algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/event/paws-4-stress-4/

Monday, December 11th: Good Morning Monday, Pancakes in the AC Hub

Do early mornings make you forget about breakfast? Need a moment before class starts? Why not start off your day with some delicious pancakes? Join your fellow students for pancakes from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Student Commons (E Building) on the second floor in the AC Hub. Want to know the best part about it all? The pancakes are completely free! That’s right, those little round fluffy cakes of love and maple syrup are free.

Link here: http://www.algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/event/good-morning-monday-pancakes/

Tuesday, December 12th: Introduction to Yoga and Meditation

What is the best way to find your inner zen? Yoga, of course! Sign up for an introductory yoga class located in the Spiritual Centre room (E211) in the student commons, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Use this time to forget about all your worries and troubles. Forget about the outside world for an hour and just breathe. Join fellow students for this relaxing event.

Link: http://www.algonquincollege.com/studentsupportservices/event/introduction-yoga-

There will be bumps in the road ahead. It's all about keeping perspective and balance. We'll get through this together.

Known to some as Mother of Cats, but others know her as Peyton a fun-loving geek, who has an obsession with Dragon Age, Overwatch, writing, and photography. An introvert who suffers from being socially awkward. But has a passion reading, writing short stories, cuddling cats, and late night binge watching Netflix.

October 25, 2017

What Can You do to Avoid Assignment Anxiety?

October 25, 2017/ Mary Jane Schauland

This is how I organize my assignments so I don't lose my mind.

Purchase An Agenda

It doesn’t have to be fancy, but I like it to have some spunk. I need it to have enough space to write the specifics of my assignments. I take it to every class. At the end of the day, I have a checklist of tasks ready to go.

Create a Plan

Usually, I aim to finish my homework 2-3 days before it’s due. This gives me time to ask my professor or a classmate for any help, if necessary. It also provides me time to go back and change anything that I don’t like upon revision.

Brainstorm Your Assignment

If you’re a procrastinator (like the right side of my brain), you’re likely laughing at the idea of even starting your assignment, let alone getting it done early. The hardest part is getting started, so don't start at the beginning. I get my main ideas down now and worry about an introduction later. A brainstorm will develop into a rough draft and from there a polished project. Some people like to polish one draft as they go and others want to rewrite their rough draft into a final copy completely. Do what works best for you.

Extra Planning for Term Projects

My tips so far have been for smaller assignments, but what if you need to plan for a term project? I still use an agenda, create a plan and brainstorm for larger projects, but there are a few extra steps to build into your plan: Turn your assignment into sections. Take each part and assign it a due date: focus on one piece at a time. If you get an idea for another section, write it down and save it for when you're scheduled to work on it.

Stay Calm

Be of the mindset that you will complete this assignment, and you will get it in on time. Start working on the tasks right away, as much as possible, and commit to your plan.

If you still find yourself anxious, and even if you don't, familiarise yourself with your school’s student resources. You never know when you might need to reach out for help, or be the source of information for a friend. If your school has a website, check it out. If not, look around your school or even ask your professor how to get into contact with student support.

At Algonquin College, Student Resources are listed here: http://www.algonquincollege.com/cal/resources/student-resources/

Take a deep breath. Smile. You will get through this year.

Photos courtesy of Pexels.com

Mary Jane's writing obsession started in 7th grade (writing low quality fanfiction). Later, she discovered how to develop her own stories, and now she’s in Professional Writing at Algonquin College to take her fiction to the next level. Oh, and she’s still a huge nerd.

October 19, 2017

Living on a student budget? Learn to do it your own competent self

October 19, 2017/ Guest User

It’s a month and a half into the semester: you’ve settled into your classes [sort of], though those 8am time slots are still a little painful, and the realities of a living on a student budget have reared their heads.

Making it work is a balancing act. The inclination is to buy the cheapest form of everything, but that isn’t always the best idea— there will be times where investing in quality will save you from having to invest in quantity later. Here are four places you can save, and one to splurge on, plus some DIY fun to make your saves look like splurges.

SPLURGE ON:
A Winter Coat: if you’re reading this from California or Arizona please feel free to disregard and do whatever your heart desires with this one. But for those of us living North of the Canada-U.S. border, a good winter coat is a necessity. It gets cold here folks and waiting for public transit while you can’t feel your behind isn’t anybody’s idea of a good time. Do yourself a favour, invest in a good winter coat. Think in terms of longevity when you make a selection. Pick a classic style (be it parka or wool)— something that won’t go out of style. Check what it’s made of— go for something with higher quality materials, they’ll last longer. Check where it’s made: if you can support a company that believes in manufacturing in North America, or Europe, it feels pretty great, and the wares are likely to have better construction standards. Pro Tip: If you’re spending the money, make sure it lasts. Bite the bullet and have your winter coat cleaned at the end of the season before putting it away— getting the salt out will make it last longer.

SAVE ON:
Bed Sheets: Thread count doesn’t always equal comfort. There are plenty of great sheets available for less than $20. Do yourself a favour and buy two sets to swap out between laundry days.
DIYOCS HACK: while the sun is still shining get your roommate to help you tie-dye a solid white sheet set.

Let your Basics be Basics: t’s, tanks, cardigans, and sweaters can all come from the basics department (specifically at H&M if you’re looking for my recommendation). They won’t have fancy graphics or branding, but that means they’ll go with anything, and you’ll be able to wear them anywhere. There’s nowhere a clean-cut white t-shirt can’t go: pair it with jeans or leggings for those early-morning classes, or tuck it into a high waisted pencil skirt, under a jacket for the interview for your placement.
Check out:
H&M: at <hm.com> and select "Basics" under the dropdown menu.
Uniqlo: if you live in Toronto. They unfortunately don't do online ordering within Canada, but if you're in the city they're well worth checking out (locations at The Eaton Centre and Yorkdale)
Forever21: those tanks for under $5 will last you a few seasons, and allow you to change up the colours of your wardrobe with seasonal trends.

DIYOCS HACK: want to make your basics a touch less basic? Think details! Trade the plastic buttons on a cardigan to vintage-inspired metal ones; add some extra fun to a hoodie by swapping out the lace for a wide-width satin ribbon.

Books: textbooks are expensive— it’s an almost unavoidable truth. Get to know online book sources for both new and used books, as well as any discount bookstores associated with your particular university/college. Students can save serious dough by snapping up a book that’s looking for a new home. Pro Tip: always make sure the edition you’re picking up is still current.

Stationary, specifically pens: don't let the pretty pens you see on the shelves of Indigo lead you astray and don't even bother with the glass-front cases at Staples. The best pens have always been ballpoint sticks. They always work, they're cheap as heck, and you can buy them everywhere. Splurge a bit and get the name brand (PaperMate, Bic, you know the ones), but buy in bulk to make up some of the cost.
Get 12 Papermate ballpoints for less than $5 here: <https://www.amazon.ca/Paper-Write-Ballpoint-Point-0-8mm/dp/B00006IE5Q/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1512431452&sr=8-11&keywords=papermate>
Or and 8 pack from BIC for under $2 here: <https://www.amazon.ca/BIC-Round-Stick-Medium-8-Pack/dp/B000XA11FU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1512431468&sr=8-2&keywords=BIC>

Finding the balance between splurging,saving, and DIYing will mean you can enjoy the higher end options you've been able to budget for, without dealing with the clutter of the ones you don't need. Because, after all, we all like pretty things.

October 09, 2017

Global Warming 102

October 09, 2017/ Guest User

Here there be dragons. Okay, not really, but it is the magical and confusing time of year where temperature and weather are concerned. Just last week summer rose from the dead, and this week it’s starting to feel a lot like Christmas. Welcome to Global Warming 102, (try to get me to change it, I dare you) where I give my best tips and tricks to avoid freezing and/or burning your ass off.

On freezing mornings and scorching afternoons: do I wear shorts and freeze in the morning? Do I dress warm and risk heatstroke later? None of the above. I give to you the all-important sweater. Keep yourself toasty in the AM, then throw that sucker in your bag when the temp rises. Simple as that. For those looking for the girly-girl look, go ahead and wear that dress, with a pair of cute stockings. They can easily be rolled up and tucked in your bag later.

Fun fact! Scarves are both useful and stylish. They can be used as a cute shawl when it gets chilly and they are compact enough to store away (I personally have at least seven).

Good luck. We'll get through this together!

Cheat Sheet:

· Layers are easier to take off than put on

· Avoid sitting under vents!

· Cradle your devices for warmth

· And if all else fails, alcohol makes you feel warm.

October 03, 2017

On-Campus Shenanigans: Guide to After-Hours Fun at Algonquin College

October 03, 2017/ Peyton Bisaillon

Juggling school, work and a social life can be a struggle. Things can feel like they’re caving in and suddenly days, weeks and months have flashed before your eyes. One day it’s Monday then suddenly it’s Friday.

Not entirely sure what you want to after a three-hour lecture? Stuck on campus for four hours between classes? Feel like you need to blow off some steam and let loose for a bit? Need to do all of the above on a budget? Fear not, dear friends and fellow students, this post is for you!

Wednesday, October 4th is Dirty Bingo:

At The Observatory from 8p.m.-10p.m. right here on campus. This is an 18+ event hosted by two of the most glamorous drag queens, Zelda and Crystal. A fun night with friends to play bingo, drink and win some adult prizes. Can’t make it on such short notice? Don’t worry, Dirty Bingo happens the first Wednesday of every month. Tickets can be purchased at the Algonquin Commons Theatre located in E Building (Student Commons) for $2. Note that this event requires ID since it is 18+.

Tuesday, October 10th is Trivia Night:

From 8p.m.-10p.m. at The Observatory. This event is free and it's a good chance for some fun memories with your friends. Teams of six go head to head for a chance to win Beats by Dre Headphones. Don’t have a team? No worries! Flying solo will give you a chance to group up after arriving and make some new friends.

Algonquin always has something on the go. Below is a link you can follow to check out all of the events coming up. The calendar is updated every month with upcoming events suitable for everyone. Make this website your go-to guide for creating new memories on campus. Going to school isn’t just about learning, it's also about having fun. Questions? Don’t be afraid to stop by the Student Association Office located in the Student Commons (E Building) for queries about upcoming events.

Link: http://www.algonquinsa.com/events/

Known to some as Mother of Cats, but others know her as Peyton a fun-loving geek, who has an obsession with Dragon Age, Overwatch, writing, and photography. An introvert who suffers from being socially awkward. But has a passion reading, writing short stories, cuddling cats, and late night binge watching Netflix.

October 02, 2017

What is Crafting the College Life all about?

October 02, 2017/ Mary Jane Schauland

Welcome to Crafting the College Life …of caffeine, overdraft, and insomnia.

Post-secondary education is notorious for challenging your perspective, sleep habits, and your wallet. It'll feel like you're being asked to recite the alphabet backwards while standing on your head, but it’s really all about finding the right balance. That’s where we come in— to fill your college life with fun and make your post-secondary experience truly memorable.

Not sure what’s going on this weekend, or heck, what’s going on Wednesday nights because you have Thursdays off? We'll be talking about how to stitch your social life with fun things to do on a budget, both on and off campus.

Feeling overwhelmed? No need to fear! We'll share out best tips regarding the art of organization to get and keep yourself on track.

Need some humour before a long day? We're cooking up some literal comic relief (get it?) to keep level-headed perspective on tap. You’ll want to forward our comics to your friends!

How about some know-how for doing everything from cooking on a student budget to Christmas gifts you’ll actually be able to afford? We've got lots of ideas to do it your own competent self.

We’re students too — we’re all on this crazy ride together.

Until next time,

Crafting the College Life