Friday, January 31, 2014

Broaden Your Horizons with Opportunities Abroad!



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Looking for a change of pace and a new atmosphere? Why not take advantage of what the world has to offer and go abroad! "Going abroad" and getting international experience are definite advantages for students who are looking to elevate their individual profiles, whether to gain valuable work experience, volunteer or study.

International opportunities are a great way for undergraduate, graduate or recently graduated students to develop personal, educational and cultural understanding. Think about it; life experience is something that all employers, graduate or professional schools take into consideration when deciding whether or not to take on a candidate. How amazing would it be to stand apart from the pack by talking about your volunteer or work experience in a different country, maybe even a different continent?!

What’s more is that being exposed to different work or volunteer environments can help you hone your skills which would be helpful in the future to write on your resume. Adaptability and flexibility are skills that employers are always looking for. International opportunities will expose you to the new types of environments that would foster these kinds of skills. Time abroad may also help open your mind to the possibility of different careers or industries that perhaps are not as well known in Canada but that are booming in other countries.

For more information about going abroad, come to the International Opportunities Fair on Wednesday February 5th in the Meeting Place at the University of Toronto at Scarborough! 

All the best,
Souraiya

Friday, January 17, 2014

Disappointed with first semester? Get back on track!

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Happy New Year UTSC!

It's the beginning of the year, which also means a time for a fresh new start. First semester grades should have all come in by now, and for some of you this may mean good news, and for others not so much. However, I'm here to tell you that it's really not the end of the world if first semester didn't turn out the way you wanted it to.  In fact, all it means is that, it's now your chance to "bounce back!"                

The first step to "rebound back" is to identify what really went wrong in first semester. Was it a lack of interest in a particular subject? Procrastination? Perhaps you were dealing with something personal. 

Whatever the reason may be, take responsibility, and move on.  Instead of dwelling, use this as a motivating factor to do your best this semester! 

This blog will introduce you to the resources available on campus and provide you with what's happening at our centre which will be to your benefit also. To succeed this semester, make sure you use the following resources to your maximum benefit. 

First and foremost: The following resources are being provided by our centre:

Midterm Preparation Workshop: January 28, 2014
Time: 12.00pm-1.00pm
Location: IC318

Book an appointment with a study skills peer: Study Skills Peer Coaching

Sign up by visiting the Career Learning Network (CLN) https://cln.utoronto.ca

Please take some time to read through this tip-sheet and follow through also:

8 Steps to Academic Success

Additional resources available on campus that you may or may not be aware of:

The Writing Centre: If you have an upcoming assignment and need help through the process, the Writing Centre is committed to providing individual feedback on a one on one basis. This works on both a drop in and an appointment basis. They are located in AC210 opposite the library.  Visit their website for more information and gain access to valuable student resources also.  

English Language Development Centre:  This centre aids in developing English language communication skills and critical thinking. They hold various events including workshops, seminars, and cafes all throughout the year.  These details are listed in their calendar of events section on their website.  Browse through, and make sure you attend.  This website will also provide you with additional student resources. 

Math & Statistics Learning Centre: If you are struggling or wish to deepen your understanding in any area of mathematics or statistics, visit the Math & Stats Help Centre (AC312). Their particular hours are listed on their website. Furthermore, the Math Aid Room (IC404) also provides assistance for those enrolled in specifically MATA32F & MATA32Y. Visit their website for more information.  

Facilitated Study Groups: These are study sessions which occur on a weekly basis instructed by a student who has previously excelled in the course itself.  This resource is therefore course specific.  Attendance is absolutely voluntary. The schedule is available on their website. Make sure you attend.

I've highlighted just a few of the many resources available on campus.  Visit: http://ctl.utsc.utoronto.ca/home/ for further updates.

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As I always mention, if you feel that you are still struggling, come by and talk to us in person in AC213 or simply book an appointment.

For more information visit our homepage, and you are welcome to access all of our services: Academic Advising & Career Centre.

Good luck this semester! I guarantee you that you will ace this semester, if you make use of all of these resources! Don't fret about first semester! Keep going!

Best wishes,
Priya