Premier is brought to you by the Arts and Humanities Students' Council 2020-2021 Volume X Editor-in-Chief: Courtney Ward-Zbeetnoff VP Communications: Sophia Belyk Cover Photo by Alex Henry @alex.w.photo 2
Welcome! Welcome first years! We’re so excited that you’ve chosen to spend your next few years here at Western. In no time, the faculty of Arts and Humanities will be your home away from home. We know this upcoming year will look a bit different than most, but we at the Arts and Humanities Students’ Council (AHSC) are here to support your journey from day one. We want to ensure that you have a smooth transition to university and find your place at Western. Premier is your guide to everything Arts and Humanities! It has advice from senior students, messages from your orientation leaders, notes from your professors, and details about campus resources. We can’t wait for you to discover everything about Western! AHSC is here for you every step of the way—online and in-person!
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Fun Fact second smallest faculty. It will become Arts and Humanities is the
your home away from home.
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Table of Contents The AHSC ...................................................................................... 6 AHSC Social Media ....................................................................... 8 Your 2020-2021 AHSC Exec ........................................................ 9 Nicole (President) ............................................................. 9 Sophia (VP Communications) ......................................... 10 Lily (VP Events) ................................................................ 11 Sierra (VP Academics) ...................................................... 12 Emma (VP Finance) .......................................................... 13 Your 2020-2021 A&H Soph Team .............................................. 15 Academic Resources ...................................................................... 18 Health Resources ........................................................................... 20 Social Resources ............................................................................. 22 A&H Professor Recommended Reads ......................................... 24 Get Involved! .................................................................................. 26 AHSC Publications ........................................................................ 28 What We Wish We Knew in First Year ..................................... 31 AHSC Events .................................................................................. 34 FAQs .............................................................................................. 36
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What is the AHSC? The Arts and Humanities Students’ Council
Who are we? We are a team of passionate student volunteers dedicated to bringing you the best student experience that the Arts and Humanities faculty can offer! We host events and opportunities to keep you engaged in the Arts community, and Western as a whole, during your time at university. Congratulations on joining one of the friendliest, fun-loving faculties on campus!
What do we do? Beyond our biweekly council meetings, we host events, speakers, formals, charity events, plays, and so much more. Our goal is to help Arts and Humanities students find a balance between academics and social activities. For a full list of what to expect from the AHSC throughout the year, visit our website listed on the next page!
Where can you find us? Our office is in University College (UC) room 2135. We will have details about our office hours and in-person meetings posted on our social media soon!
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How can I get involved in the AHSC? We are looking for First-Year Representatives and First-Year Portfolio Associates to join our team in early September. Alternatively, you are welcome to attend any of our meetings throughout the year as a general member. Visit our website listed below for more information.
Contact us! For general inquiries email: usc.ahsc.exec@uwo.ca Find us on Facebook: @ahscwesternu Find us on Twitter: @ahscuwo Find us on Instagram: @ahscwesternu Check out our website: ahscwesternu.com
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Follow us on Social Media! For updates, contests, opportunities, and more! @ahscwesternu @ahscpubs @ahscuwo @ahscwesternu @ahsc_pubs @ahscuwo
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2020-2021 Executive Team
Hi, my name is Nicole Paldino I am the AHSC President! My Degree: Honours Specialization in English Language and Literature with a minor in Women’s Studies and a certificate in Practical Italian. What I Do on Council: I am responsible for representing Arts and Humanities students both on a faculty wide-and university-wide level, and within the London community. I ensure that council members are upholding their duties so that council operates without a hitch. I consider our students’ experiences and how we as a council can reflect the wants and needs of our constituents to provide an inclusive, supportive, and united space. What I Wish I Knew in First Year: Do not hold back. Do not wait for opportunities to pass. Going outside your comfort zone early on will lessen the room for regrets later because you will have already tried everything you were afraid of. If you want to get involved with a club, committee, or council, don’t wait to sign up or apply. Do it now, because although “four years really flies by” is a cliché, it’s true, and you don’t want to look back on your university experience wishing you hadn’t waited until the last minute to finally push yourself.
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Hi, my name is Sophia Belyk I am the VP Communications! My Degree: Double major in SASAH (School for Advanced Studies in the Arts and Humanities) and MIT (Media, Information, and Technoculture) with a minor in French. What I Do on Council: I oversee the Communications portfolio, which covers our social media, promotions, publications, website, and lots of other exciting things! My job in a nutshell is to make sure that Arts and Humanities students get to hear about all the fun and important things we do on council. I’m also council’s website design commissioner, so if you’re ever on our website (ahscwesternu.com), that’s all me! What I Wish I Knew in First Year: Closed mouths don’t get fed! I know it can seem scary, but you’d be amazed at how easy it is to get what you want or need if you’re just willing to ask. The list of special permissions in my Student Center is not only its own epic saga, but a testament to how people at Western want to help you succeed! Your profs would be delighted to see you in their office hours to give you advice on how to start that tricky essay, and Arts and Humanities Academic Counselling will do all they can to switch you between programs without setting you back. Just ask! Also—join Student Council!!
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Hi, my name is Lily Azzopardi I am the VP Events! My Degree: Honours Specialization in Classics Studies with a minor in Ancient Greek and Latin Language and a certificate in Museum and Curatorial Studies. What I Do on Council: Through my position, I lead a team of individuals who work on creating and managing events, some of which include advertising the London community, charity drives and crafting specialized events for A&H students. My team and I ensure the experiences we create and advertise embody our faculty’s best qualities: creative, inclusive, fun, and inspiring. What I Wish I Knew in First Year: There is more to university life than just our campus! Western’s campus seems to have everything you need, so during my first year, I hardly saw a reason to leave and explore aside from a fun night out. I’ve only now realized that London has so much more to offer! London holds so many treasures, like Victoria Park, food festivals, art galleries, community events, and some amazing restaurants! All I’m trying to say is that if you have a weekend off, 100% spend some time getting to know London by experiencing all it has to offer. After all, you are going to be here for the next four years —make the most of it!
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Hi, my name is Sierra Joseph I am the VP Academics! My Degree: Double Major in SASAH and Women’s Studies. What I Do on Council: As the VP Academics, I work on enriching the university experience of Arts students and advocating for them not only on AHSC, but with the faculty and university at large. I work with the Department Representatives to ensure all students are represented fairly and are considered in all our community, council, and faculty matters. I also work with the Dean’s Office, Academic Counselling, and various faculty members to address students’ academic interests and concerns. Overall, I get the incredible opportunity to represent, work with, and advocate for Arts and Humanities students! What I Wish I Knew in First Year: University is all about exploration. Try new things and explore any or all of your interests because chances are there is an opportunity for them here. Take random electives, try different clubs, just take in as much as possible because time will fly from O-Week to convocation. Even when things feel silly or random, you are gaining experience and learning in ways you wouldn’t if you had just sat back. Say yes, take (calculated) risks, and see where unforeseen paths can lead. And always check your email and have a Facebook account—both are incredible resources you should definitely make use of!
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Hi, my name is Emma Ford I am the VP Finance! My Degree: Honours Specialization in Classics. What I Do on Council: As the VP Finance, my job is to keep track of all the AHSC money. I make sure we have enough money to cover all the events and initiatives we have planned, and that we are spending our funds in a way that reflects the wants and needs of A&H students. I also oversee the Student Donation Fund, which is a grant available to Arts students. While I have to send a lot of emails, I also get to work with almost every member of council (and lots of people outside of it), which makes my job pretty fun. What I Wish I Knew in First Year: Don’t be afraid to do something by yourself. Sit quietly in the back of a club meeting. Talk to the people beside you in class. Do anything that interests you—try to do something outside your comfort zone. Just make time for yourself in your schedule. You are living an entirely different life from what you’re used to, so try and embrace it.
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Fun Fact Sophs are your upper year mentors, but they often become some of your
best
friends! All sophs all have nicknames with fun stories behind them. 14
2020-2021 A&H Soph Team A message from your Head Soph Hey A&H students! I first want to congratulate you on the choice you made to join such a creative and diverse faculty. I am your Head Soph for the 2020-2021 school year. I have varying roles, but the one that made me want to be your Head Soph is to enhance your experience as first year Arts students. I, along with a chosen team of sophs (upper year students), are here to help you with a seamless transition into the Western community. Your sophs are a resource for you throughout the year, no matter what you need. Sophs are some of the most versatile, kind-hearted, and adaptable people I have met. This year clearly looks different, which is why I feel the need to emphasize the open arms A&H welcomes you with. This faculty and its Orientation Program have provided me with endless opportunities for self-growth and expression, as well as meeting some of the most amazing people. The other A&H sophs and I hope to give you the same experience and more. Though I am an English major, I have a hard time putting into words the energy and support you feel within this faculty; to simplify, pure euphoria. I hope the start of your journey as an Arts and Humanities student begins with that rewarding feeling of boundlessness. I cannot wait to meet you all. Welcome to the family!
-Saje 15
Hi, my name is Flex! I am the A&H Soph PA Hello and welcome to Western! We are SO excited to have you here and cannot wait for you to start your year with us. My soph name is Flex, I am in third year taking an Honors Specialization in Linguistics with a minor in Psychology and I am the Programming Assistant (PA) on the Arts and Humanities Soph team. One piece of advice I would go back and give my first-year self is to ask questions. First year is all about adapting to the new university lifestyle, and you are not expected to know all the ins and outs of this. We are all here to guide you and support you as you transition into your new home!
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A&H Soph Team OWeek 2019
Head Soph Saje with A&H Painting
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Academic Resources Note: the walk-in services of these resources is subject to change due to the partially-distanced model of this school year.
Academic Counselling For any help regarding course advice and course registration, visit your Arts and Humanities academic counselors. Ben Hakala and Amanda Green are extremely knowledgeable, and are here to make you feel comfortable in all aspects of meeting your degree requirements. Visit them often, get to know them (because they are wonderful people), and ask them any questions you might have!
We are located in the University College (UC) Suite 2230. Contact Us: arts@uwo.ca or (519) 661-3043 *email is preferred and please include your student number* Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Friday mornings 9:30 AM 12:00 PM
Student Central We are located in the Student Services Building, room 1120. Contact Us: contact@uwo.ca or (519) 6612100 *helpline hours are the same as drop-in hours* Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, & Fri: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wed: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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Visit Student Central for a variety of different services, from receiving a transcript to replacing a lost student card to chatting with a financial counsellor. Some services they offer include processing tuition fee payments and distributing government loans. Contact by phone for general questions regarding course enrolment and registration assistance.
Financial Services If you’re stressed about your finances, you can make an appointment with a Financial Aid Officer to speak about bursaries, OSAP, budgeting, or anything else finance-related. All appointments are confidential. You can easily schedule an appointment online through your Student Center (student. uwo.ca). Just select ‘Financial Aid Counselling’ from the bottom of the right-hand column.
We are located in the Student Services Building, room 1120. Contact Us: contact@uwo.ca or (519) 661-2100 *Helpline hours are Monday - Friday 9AM - 4PM*
Writing Support Centre We are located on the 4th floor of the Western Student Services Building, Room 4130. Contact Us: wsc@ uwo.ca or (519) 6613655 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:30 AM 4:30 PM
Need essay advice, cover letter tips, or help with a thesis? The Writing Support Centre is here to help! You can visit a counselor by appointment in the Student Services Building or the office at Weldon Library (located on the main floor by the Argo Tea Cafe). They offer online writing resources and clinics for students transitioning to university writing (aka you!). Make use of these great resources and note that appointments book up fast during busy essay times (November and March).
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Health Resources Academic Support and Engagement Previously called the Student Development Centre, a number of resources are available at Academic Support and Engagement, including accessible education and learning development counselling. Reach out if you find you’re having trouble transitioning to university life or if you don’t know where else to go.
We are located in the Student Services Building, Room 4130. Contact Us: to book an appointment call (519) 6613031. Our Hours: Monday Friday 8:30AM - 4:00PM
Wellness Education Centre The Wellness Education Centre is a supportive, safe, student-led environment for Western students to ask questions, learn about mental wellness, and find further resources on and off campus to help fit your needs. You can drop in anytime they’re open, there’s no need to book an appointment.
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We are located in the University Community Centre (UCC), Room 76. Contact Us: (519) 661-2111 ext. 87127 Hours: Monday - Friday: 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Student Health Services An appointment-based clinic that provides all types of medical and counselling services to students. Located in the basement of the UCC, it’s convenient and quick, whether you need to be seen immediately, need a doctor’s note to verify an absence, or want to discuss options surrounding birth control, allergies, immunizations, etc.
We are located in the UCC, room 11. Contact Us: to book an appointment call (519) 6613030. Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00AM - 7:00PM, Friday 9:00AM - 4:30PM, & Select Saturdays (see student health services website for details).
Student Emergency Response Team (SERT) Note: SERT’s services for this upcoming year are yet to be confirmed, and may change with physical distancing protocols. In the event of an injury or medical emergency on campus, call SERT by cell or campus phone. This response team is comprised of students who are trained in emergency medical care. They will be the first to arrive to your medical emergency.
Contact Us: Call 911 from a campus phone OR (519) 661-3300 from a cell phone.
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Residence Counselling For students currently living in residence, counselling services are provided. They provide shortterm confidential counselling to help students manage a variety of mental health and emotional challenges. For more information, contact your Residence Advisor, or Residence Manager.
Our offices are located in Ontario Hall, Room 3C10. Contact Us: Any student living in residence on main campus can email needtotalk@uwo.ca to schedule an appointment with a Residence Counsellor.
Social Resources The Rec Centre Membership to Western’s Student Recreation Centre is included in your tuition—make use of it! Not only is there a pool, but there’s also yoga, Zumba, countless organized sports for the most (or least) exerciseinclined among us, and there’s
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a Booster Juice that has a way shorter line than the UCC’s. There are a variety of drop-in classes (e.g. spin, sculpt & sweat, cardio kickboxing) scheduled each week, as well as a lot of intramural sports to play!
Western Film Great for movie dates or a night out with your friends! They have an amazing selection of movies, it’s in a convenient location (the second floor of the UCC), and it’s right next to The Wave, which offers a dinner and movie combo (and has the best chicken fingers TBH). Western Film
also plays “Midnight Cult Movies.” You haven’t truly experienced Mean Girls until you’ve seen it in a theatre of university students quoting it word for word.
The Spoke & The Wave We have two words for you: “Spoke fries.” They taste like happiness and rainbows. Also, the Spoke bagels are incredible. Pretty much all the food offered at The Spoke and The Wave is amazing, and the staff are incredibly friendly.
You can also pay for food at these eateries with the Flex Dollars on your Student Card!
Writer-in-Residence This is a great resource! This year’s Writer-in-Residence and Student Writer-in-Residence can help you workshop creative pieces (or an essay you’re struggling with) in a relaxed environment. It can be intimidating to go and talk things through with your prof (although profs are super friendly), so it’s nice to have a professional writer
or fellow student to talk to about your work. This year Alicia Elliott is the Writer in-Residence and Courtney Ward-Zbeetnoff is the Student Writer-in-Residence.
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Recommended Reads From your A&H Professors! For more recommendations & information on each book choice, check out www.ahscwesternu.com/recommended-reads-by-your-a-h-profs
Kathyrn Brush of Visual Arts recommends...
Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres by Henry Adams
Practical Ethics, 3rd edition by Peter Singer
Why?
Why?
Christopher Keep of English and Writing Studies recommends...
Manina Jones of English and Writing Studies recommends...
The Renaissance by Walter
McKay
Adams imaginatively journeys back in time to the medieval cathedrals of northern France, contrasting the “coherence” of the 13th century with the uncertainties of his own day; promoting the appreciation of Europe’s Middle Ages in North America.
Pater
Why? All students in the Arts & Humanities face the question of why one should devote their lives, or at least a part of their lives, to the study of novels, poems, plays, paintings, films, and the other arts. Pater provides the best answer. And the most beautifully written.
Singer argues controversial views on a range of ethical issues, including killing and eating animals, abortion, euthanasia, our treatment of the global poor, climate change, and our obligations to the environment. Reading it will likely dislodge many of your current ethical opinions. Enjoy!
Birding, or Desire by Don
Why?
Not enough people read poetry. This book takes you unawares and swoops into your life like the swallows in the tunnel leading to UCC -- surprisingly feisty, shockingly beautiful, and often laugh out loud funny, McKay asks readers to bring “poetic attention” to the natural world, wherever they find it.
Kim Verwaayen of Women’s Studies and Feminist Research recommends...
Charles Stocking of Classical Studies recommends...
Pale as Real Ladies by
The Mahabharata
Joan Crate
Why? It is one of the most powerful things in literature.
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Anthony Skelton of Philosophy recommends...
Bhagavad-Gita from
Why? The Bhagavad-Gita offers an
important alternative perspective, one that may provide some vital stress relief and allows students to live more in the moment. As Krishna says to Arjuna, “You have a right to action, but never to the fruits of action” (Bhagavad-Gita 2.47).
Jo Devereux of English and Writing Studies recommends...
All of Barbara Pym's novels
Why? Jane Austen pared-down, with
beautiful subtle humor about gender relations and the austerity of life in Britain after WWII. So here are four I love to reread: Some Tame Gazelle (1950), Excellent Women (1952), Jane and Prudence (1953), and The Sweet Dove Died (1978).
Mary Helen McMurran of English and Writing Studies recommends...
Tenth of December by George Saunders
Why? A short story collection
Sarah Bassnett of Visual Arts recommends...
24/7: Late Capitalism
and the Ends of Sleep by Jonathan Crary
Why? This book is an eye-opener for the sleep deprived and a glimpse at the extreme consequences of neoliberal globalization.
Gabrielle Ceraldi of English and Writing Studies recommends...
Atonement by Ian McEwan Why? If you put Agatha Christie in
recommended for its mastery of the narrative form and its striking alignment of cheerfulness with precarity and gloom.
a blender with Virginia Woolf and then added in a bit of Harriet the Spy, you might get something like this book—a postmodern fairy-tale/old-fashioned whodunit.
James Purkis of English and Writing Studies recommends...
Tricia Johnson of Visual Arts recommends...
The Black Dahlia by James Ellroy Why? This book exposes a horribly
misogynistic world, and is the best fictional exploration of obsessive sexual desire. A very nasty book, but incredibly well written.
Jonathan Boulter Department of English and Writing Studies recommends...
The Unnamable by
Samuel Beckett Why? This is a novel that questions the
Dubliners
by James Joyce
Why? He is so visual in his storytelling.
Taiwo Adetunji Osinubi of English and Writing Studies recommends...
Black Boy by Richard Wright Why?
It is a compelling read about the history of race relations in the American South.
very grounds of fiction and being—read it at your peril.
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Get Involved! Departmental Committees
The Coterie: English Society The Coterie seeks to improve experiences relating to English on campus through opportunities to share work, connect with peers, and create awareness of where an English degree can take you beyond Western (hint: it can take you anywhere!). They host a variety of events, such as poetry slams, writing socials, as well as academic and career information sessions.
Western Undergraduate Film Society (WUFS) WUFS dedicates their time to help students explore their interest in cinematic storytelling. They organize Western’s annual Undergraduate Film Festival, and plan a variety of filmmaking workshops and student production events.
Visual Arts Supporters Association (VASA) VASA is a collection of students dedicated to supporting the visual arts scene on Western’s campus. They host many different events throughout the year, such as art sales, bake sales, social nights, and screenings.
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French Student Association (FSA) FSA strives to promote studying French at Western through connecting students with opportunities to develop their language skills, by sharing the idea that French is important to more than just Arts and Humanities students.
Women’s Studies Student Collective (WSSC) WSSC expands on the creative thinking and learning of traditional standards promoted by the department of Women’s Studies and Feminist Research. Throughout the year, WSSC focuses on creating safe spaces on campus for Women’s Studies students of all genders, and aims to challenge any injustices present on campus.
Iconoclast Iconoclast is an interdisciplinary blog and publication dedicated to creating content about art, culture, and politics. Their publications feature visual art, photography, media and film, musical critiques and reflections, creative thinking, short fiction, personal essays, fashion writing, and more!
Visit the AHSC website for info on how to join Departmental Committees! 27
Symposium
Publications Symposium magazine is a biannual publication that showcases a myriad of creative writing, poetry, visual art, photography, and more. We accept submissions from all current Arts and Humanities students and would love to see your creative work published while you’re here at Western!
We are now accepting submissions!
Semicolon
Semicolon magazine is a biannual publication that demonstrates the academic achievements of current Western students. We accept A level essays from any Arts and Humanities course offered on campus, but you do not need to be registered in the Arts and Humanities faculty to submit. We look forward to seeing your writing!
Send your work to ahscpubs@gmail.com
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Read our publications online at issuu.com/ahscpubs For Symposium Submissions: • • • • • • •
Subject line: 2020 Symposium Submission Include your name and pronouns as you’d like them to appear Send photos of visual art in JPEG or PNG format If a piece was written for a class, please include the course code If applicable, include any formatting specifications (poetry, etc.) Multiple pieces should be sent as separate attachments Word limit: 1500 words
For Semicolon Submissions: • • • • •
Subject line: 2020 Semicolon Submission Include your name and pronouns as you’d like them to appear Essays must have received a grade of 80% or above in an A&H course on main campus *please include the course code and grade received* A works cited page must be included at the end of the essay; essays without works cited will not be considered, unless specified that the essay contains no borrowed material Word limit: 2500 words
For more information about our submission guidelines, please visit the AHSC Publications page at www.ahscwesternu.com/submission-guidelines 29
Fun Fact over 200 clubs
Western has that you can join! From mental health advocacy to juggling, there is sure to be one you’re interested in. 30
If Only We Knew... the things we wish we knew in first year To make the first week of classes easier, it really helps to get acquainted with the buildings beforehand. Try to find the exact rooms of your classes so you’re not wandering around lost in the Arts Building for a few minutes before class starts!
It’s okay if OWeek isn’t the best week of your life! There are amazing events offered and Western’s welcoming of first years is fantastic, but sometimes it can be a little overwhelming too. There are tons of awesome events, so choose the ones that appeal most to you.
Writing support is for everyone! Fresh eyes on your paper can make up to a 10% difference to your grade. There's actually an essay writing clinic hiding in the UCC. Who knew?
Don’t be worried about participating in classes! In university, answering questions is cool. A&H classes are much smaller, so there’s a lot of opportunity for class discussions.
If you can, try not to take the bus around campus. Most of the time it actually takes longer to bus around campus than walk. Don’t be afraid to go to your professor or TA's office hours! Office hours can usually be found at the top of your syllabus. Come prepared with specific questions or concerns.
Make sure you spend a good amount of time at the Club Fair. First year only happens once, and there’s SO much you can do! Go to OWeek events! From there you can learn about the ways to become more involved in campus life.
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Call Western Health Services as soon as they open to get a same-day appointment. You may have to set your alarm for 9AM, but it’s definitely worth it.
Gain work experience and some extra cash by applying online to the Work Study Program at Western!
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and make a friend in class or join a club, even if just for a semester.
See your prof and your TA about essay help—both will mark papers and have different constructive input.
The key to doing all of your readings is sometimes not doing all of them—choose the most important ones if you’re running out of time.
It’s never too early to try to get your work published. Student publications and online magazines are a great place to start!
Go visit your profs. This is their job after all. They want to get to know you and help you, and having these connections will be beneficial in future years.
Your Sophs are here for you, so reach out to them. They’re pretty cool people that genuinely want to be your friend and help you through your transition to university.
Taylor Library is in the Natural Science Building. This was a mystery to us A&H kids for some time.
There is a Tim Horton’s in the basement of UCC that almost never has a line!
Spoke bagels are just as good as everyone says, don’t wait to try them. The mochas from The Spoke are also amazing.
Don’t lose sight of how you got into Western and why you wanted to come in the first place. You belong here!
It’s okay to send a follow-up email to your prof after you get a grade back asking how you can improve it for next time. Maybe your grade will even increase.
Embrace the changes you will see yourself going through. We are meant to grow and transform. Looking back, I feel like a different person than who I was in first-year, but I wouldn’t change a thing.
University can be overwhelming at times, but you will be okay. Thousands of students graduate from Western each year, and you will too.
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Upcoming AHSC Events Check the AHSC website for details and updates
First Semester A&H Information Session Wellness Wheel Quarantine Qrafts FAM Market
Department Mixers Thanksgiving Food Drive Date with a Book Publications Writing Contest
Second Semester AHSC Scavenger Hunt Trivia Night Department Mixers St. John Therapy Dogs Publications Writing Contest
A&H at the Animal Shelter Paint Night A&H Workshops Formal AHSC Play
AHSC Play “No Exit” January 2020
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Publications Launch Party 2019
Arts Formal 2019
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If You're Still Wondering... Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go for mental health assistance? Western has multiple resources to provide you with mental health and wellness help. The Mental Health Helpline is available both online (mentalhealthhelpline.ca) as well as over the phone (1-866-5312600). The Student Development Centre (sdc.uwo.ca) is a resource
located on campus that provides psychological services, wellness education and sexual violence prevention education, to name a few. The Peer Support Centre located on the second floor of UCC also provides support for mental health.
Where do I go if I get ill or need a doctors note? Students are encouraged to book an appointment with Student Health Services in the lower level of the UCC, Room 11. This is where students can obtain doctor’s notes, counselling and psychiatry, birth control information, allergy injections and immunization, and
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STI testing. Western also has two pharmacies: one is in the basement of UCC (519-6614058) and the other is located on the corner of Western Road and Sarnia Road inside the Books Plus store.
How can I get around campus at night? Western Foot Patrol is a free service that assists in keeping campus a safe place to study, work, and live. Simply call 519- 661-3650 and two friendly students will join you on your walk home. Other safety
resources on campus include Campus Police (dial 911 from any campus phone) and the Student Emergency Response Team (SERT), at 519-661-3300.
How do I get involved with the AHSC? Great question! During O-Week, applications to join the AHSC as either a First Year Representative for a residence or a First Year Portfolio Associate will be available.
Check out our website for online applications at ahscwesternu.com or email our executive team (usc.ahsc.exec@ uwo.ca) for more information!
Where do I go if I want to learn more about events happening with A&H? The AHSC website, Facebook, and Instagram have all of that information and more! Some A&H departments also have their own social media, like English and Writing Studies.
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How can I get my work published? Symposium, Semicolon, Iconoclast, and the Gazette are great places to start! If you have any questions regarding the publishing process for Symposium or Semicolon, email Courtney, the AHSC Editorin-Chief, at cwardzbe@uwo.ca or ahscpubs@gmail.com for more information!
Where do I go if I need a space to pray? University Community Centre, Room 269 is known as the Multi-Faith Space, where students, student groups, and the Western Chaplains have a specific space to express their faith, religion, and spirituality.
How do I manage all of my classes? Organize yourself, plan everything out beforehand, and make lists. Checking items off a list not only feels so satisfying, but it will help! Also, know that it’s okay to drop a course! A full course load can be a lot to manage. Many students take 4.0 or 4.5 course credits per year—you’ll still be considered full-time enrolment!
Who do I see if I need academic accommodation? Arts and Humanities has two Academic Counsellors, Amanda and Ben, located in University College (UC) Suite 2230. If you need medical accommodation or have a family emergency, they can help.
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Do I have to buy all of my books from the book store? No! There are several Western Facebook groups tailored specifically for students to buy and sell textbooks, but you can also ask your Soph if they know of anyone who has the books you need. Chances are, they will. Many readings can also be found online, but double check to make sure they are the correct edition. You can buy and sell used textbooks at www.facebook.com/groups/uwousedtextbooks/
What is the best way to get a high mark in a class? Look at your syllabus and see how everything is weighted. If you have a tutorial that requires participation and is worth 10%, don’t miss a single tutorial and you’ll get all ten of those marks (speaking from experience). Don’t stress too much about something that’s worth two or three percent, but keep in mind that those small assignments can add up and be an easy way to boost your mark.
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