Premier 2022-23

Premier is brought to you by the Arts and Humanities Student Council

2022-23 Volume XX

WELCOME

Welcome!

Hello first-year students and welcome to Western and to the Faculty of Arts and Humanities!

Want to know where everything on campus is? What clubs to join? What even is the Arts and Humanities Students’ Council? Premier is your go-to for any of these questions and many more.

It’s normal to be nervous for what’s ahead, but that’s where the AHSC comes in! Drop us any of your burning questions and we will be more than happy to help you.

Trust us – you’re gonna love it here.

What is the AHSC?

The Arts & Humanities Student Council

WHO ARE WE?

We are a team of amazing student-volunteers who’ll guarantee you the best student experience the Arts and Humanities faculty can offer. Plus, we’re the friendliest and most fun-loving faculty on campus!

WHAT DO WE DO?

We host events, speakers, formals, charity events, plays, and so much more. All so that you can achieve a healthy 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 located in University College (UC) Room 2135. Attend office hours if you have any questions, or just to make some friends. Details about our office hours and in-person meetings will be posted on our social media!

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED IN THE AHSC?

Apply to be a First-Year Representative or First-Year Portfolio Associate in early September! You are also welcome to attend any of our meetings throughout the year as a general member. Visit our website listed on the next page for more information.

Find us on Instagram:

@ahscwesternu @ahscpubs

Find us on Facebook:

@ahscwesternu @ahscpubs

Find us on Tiktok:

@ahscwesternu

Connect with us on Linkedin:

Arts and Humanities Students’

Council at Western University

Read our AHSC Publications: https://issuu.com/ahscpubs

Scan the QR code below

to visit our website:

ahscwesternu.com

For general inquiries email: usc.ahsc.exec@uwo.ca

Arts and Humanities Must Knows Facebook Group

This is a place for students from different programs to connect with each other and to stay in-the-know with the A&H’s schedule throughout the year. You can post questions about any aspect related to A&H and hear about initiatives organised by Council and faculty members!

A CAMPUS MAP

LEGEND

1. AHSC Office (UC 2135)

2. Arts and Humanities Building

3. The Spoke and Wave

4. Concrete Beach

5. Arts and Humanities Dean’s Office (UC Suite 2220G)

6. University College

7. Recreation Centre

8. Pharmacy (lower level UCC, room 36C)

9. Bookstore (lower level UCC, room 7, across from pharmacy)

10. Prayer Space (UCC, room 269)

Bus Stops (marked by bus icons on edited map)

Eateries (marked by knife+fork icons on edited map)

Libraries/Study Spaces

(marked by book icons on edited map)

1. Main Campus

a. D.B Weldon Library

b. Allyn and Betty Taylor Library

c. Music Library

d. C.B “Bud” Johnston Business Library

e. John and Dotsa Bitove Family Law Library

2. Affiliates

f. Brescia: Beryl Ivey Library

g. Huron: Huron University College Library

h. King’s: Cardinal Carter Library

For parking information, check out this link! https://www.uwo.ca/parking/find/index.html

This map is merely a starting point to help you in navigating campus. There’s much more to discover and we encourage you to venture forth and find your own favourite spaces!

*Original map credits belong to Karen VanKerkoele

FUNFACT 1

UniversityCollegeistheoldestbuildingatWestern(completed inthesummerof1924)andisthemainbuildingfortheFaculty ofArtsandHumanities.

2022-23 EXECUTIVE TEAM

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Specialization in Philosophy

Porfolio: Presidential

Contact

sydney.turner@westernusc.ca

@sydney.turner

What my portfolio does on council

My portfolio oversees the operations of the AHSC and maintains its order, structure, and integrity!

Something new you are planning for this year

I am planning an initiative to encourage each department to engage in a Diversity in Curricula review!

Favourite hang-out spot?

Definitely Reset Social Cafe! It has a great atmosphere, great staff members, and yummy coffee.

Amazing book you’ve read? My Body by Emily Ratajkowski!

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Double Major in English and SASAH with a Minor in French Porfolio: Presidential

Contact

tiffany.lin@westernusc.ca @tiff.xl

Pronouns: he/him

Degree: Honours Specialization in Creative Writing & English and a Major in SASAH

Porfolio: Equity

Contact

hkafeel2@uwo.ca

What my portfolio does on council

The Equity portfolio focuses on facilitating social justice in the faculty through charitable and awareness campaigns, curriculum review, and student collaboration.

Something new you are planning for this year

We will work with DRs and professors for curriculum review; diversity is a constant struggle. Favourite study spot? Waking up in the UC building at 3:00 AM after passing out on your laptop keyboard

Amazing book you’ve read? No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai, super depressing!

What my portfolio does on council

As councillor, I don’t lead a portfolio myself. My role is mainly to connect A&H students directly to the USC.

Something new you are planning for this year I hope to organize a formal talk event to empower/amplify the voices of A&H!

Favourite hang-out spot? Saga Board Games & Coffee! They have an extensive menu and are a great place to hang-out or work.

Favourite secret study spot? any lecture hall when there’s no classes going on! It also encourages study breaks as you may have to travel if a class comes in.

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Dual Degree in The atre Studies and Sociology

Porfolio: Events

Contact

bbaaswil@uwo.ca

@baileywxx

What my portfolio does on council

My portfolio is in charge of developing and producing events for the Arts & Human ities student body!

Something new you are planning for this year

We are planning on having the Alumni Mixer paired with the Career Series this year!

Favourite prof at Western? Kim Solga – she is so wonderful and really values students

Amazing movie you’ve watched recently? An amazing series I have been watching is Fear Street!

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Double Major in Philosophy and SASAH

Porfolio: Finance

Contact

mgleed@uwo.ca

What my portfolio does on council

The Finance Portfolio is responsible for establishing the AHSC budget and monitoring all spending. We work with the Student Donation Fund Committee to sponsor multiple A&H student projects over the year.

Something new you are planning for this year? This year we are focusing on sponsoring more students through the SDF Grant!

Favourite hangout spot? The Black Walnut in downtown is a great spot to meet with classmates and study off campus. Go-to Spoke order? The egg, cheese, and bacon breakfast sandwich on a plain bagel and a mango smoothie.

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Spec. in Creative

Writing & English and Major in SASAH

Porfolio: Academics

Contact

hbrogden@uwo.ca

@graybrogden16

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Spec. in

Creative Writing & English

Porfolio: Communications

Contact

msadorsk@uwo.ca

@michelle.owls

What my portfolio does on council

Facilitate communication within and outside of the AHSC, manage the A&H publications and seek to share the talent and artistic expression of students.

Something new you are planning for this year

Monthly giveaways! Follow our IG and TikTok so you stay in the loop :)

Go-to Spoke order? Smoked salmon bagel on Asiago mushroom and feta cream cheese.

Amazing play you’ve watched? Hamilton. *Chef’s kiss*

What my portfolio does on council The Academics Portfolio works to address students’ academic needs and concerns, promote education, mental health, and support equity, diversity and inclusion.

Something new you are planning for this year

Academics Trivia: a fun night of socialising, trivia, and getting answers to any questions you might have!

Amazing book you’ve read? Book Lovers by Emily Henry – it is the perfect book for rom-com fanatics and city people.

Go-to Spoke order? An Asiago Sourdough bagel with Spinach Feta cream cheese and a double chocolate cookie.

DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVES

gDepartment Representatives are students who have been elected by their respective departments within the A&H faculty. They ensure the faculty’s policies and programming reflect student needs by relaying feedback and concerns to the AHSC and departments. This includes anything from course feedback, community learning, to research opportunities. DRs connect students through events and allow them to discover what lies both within and beyond the classroom!

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Specialization in Classical Studies and Major in SASAH

Contact

@maia_ross3

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I am planning a multitude of fun events for this year which will bring together the Classics Community including Baking Loukoumades. An amazing play I’ve watched recently: Six the Musical.

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Specialization in Creative Writing & English and Major in SASAH

Contact

asaha27@uwo.ca

@ashasaha_

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I represent all students in the English, Writing, Theatre, Medieval, and Film departments on council, and plan fun events where we can connect with each other! One fun thing I’m planning for this year is a movie night!

An amazing book I’ve read recently: The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

Pronouns: he/him

Degree: Major in SASAH, Honours Specialization in Philosophy, and Minor in Political Science

Contact palbehes@uwo.ca

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I’m proud to represent Western’s philosophy students in Council this year. One project I’m really excited about is starting our very own student-run philosophy publication. An amazing book I’ve read recently: Being and Some Philosophers by Étienne Gilson

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours Double Major in Psychology and Sexuality

Contact kmaillet@uwo.ca

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I am the Department Representative for GSWS on council! I am planning fun events for this year (including a ‘Passion Project Coffee House’) and helping GSWS students feel connected. Favourite course taken at Western: Lesbian Lives and Cultures with Chris Roulston!

Pronouns: he/him/his

Degree: Honours Specialization in Creative Writing & English and an Honours Major in Arts in Humanities (SASAH)

Contact

cvand49@uwo.ca @cole.sasah.dr

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I might wear two hats on council, but my passion and advocacy is for all things Arts and Humanities, particularly the public, creative, and performing arts. This year I am planning multiple public Theatre Community events, and, of course, dedicated SASAH events too… Stay tuned!

An amazing play I’ve watched recently: I recently attended the Edmonton Fringe Fest and got to watch Josie and Grace, a heartwarming and thought-provoking play.

Pronouns: he/him

Degree: 5th year in Honours Fine Arts

Contact dmcvicar@uwo.ca

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I am planning on doing a Ceramic “Make and Greet”

Pronouns: he/il Degree: Honours Specialization/ Major in Political Science and Linguistics

Contact byao25@uwo.ca

What you do on council and something new you are planning for this year?

I am proud to be the representative for Linguistics and Languages & Cultures students at Western. One thing I’m excited to introduce this year is the concept of apéro hours! Je serai toujours à vos côtés; n’hésitez pas à me contacter!

Go-to Spoke order: Everything bagel with lox and cucumberdill cream cheese / Un bagel plein-goût au saumon fumé et au fromage à la crème à l’aneth

Best club at Western: Trivia / Les jeux-questionnaires!

2022-23 A&H SOPH TEAM

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Honours

Specialization in Classical Studies

Contact

eford27@uwo.ca

What is your role this year?

My role as Head Soph is to hire and train the Sophs and plan all our programming.

Go-to Spoke order?

Three Cheese

Peppercorn (Go Spoke Kitchen!!)

Favourite secret study place: Classics

Pronouns: he/him

Degree: Major in Film Studies and Double Minor in Philosophy and Political Science

Contact

@alraffaymirza

What is your role this year?

I help out our head soph while acting as a liaison for the Charity Team. I am in charge of heading events during O-Week and throughout the year. An amazing book I’ve read recently?

The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid, a touching, well-written story about an immigrant.

Pronouns: she/her

Degree: Theatre Studies

Contact

@eviemarcotullio11

What is your role this year?

I act as a liaison between O-staff and my team, and relay information about training and maintaining safety on campus for first-years while also planning events.

An amazing book I’ve read recently?

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.

HEALTH RESOURCES

Academic Support and Engagement

Located in the Western Student Services Building, 4th Floor, the Academic Support and Engagement office offers accessible education and learning development counselling. Reach out if you’re having trouble transitioning to university life or if you don’t know where else to go.

Call: (519) 661-3017

Email: ase@uwo.ca

Hours

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM4:00PM

Student Health Services

Located in Thames Hall, room 2170, Student Health Services is an appointmentbased clinic providing all types of medical and counselling services to students. You can be seen immediately and get a doctor’s note to verify an absence, discuss options surrounding birth control, allergies, immunizations, etc.

Call: (519) 661-3030

Hours

Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Select Saturdays (visit https://www.uwo.ca/ health/shs/shs_appointment. html for details).

Student Emergency Response Team (SERT)

In the event of an injury or medical emergency on campus, call SERT by cell or campus phone. This response team consists of students who are trained in emergency medical care. They will be the first to arrive at your medical emergency.

CONTACT

Call 911 from a campus phone OR (519) 661-3300 from a cell phone.

tResidence Counselling

With offices located in Ontario Hall, Room 3C10, counselling services are provided for students living in residence. They provide short-term, confidential counselling to help students manage a variety of mental health and emotional challenges. For more information, contact your Residence Advisor or Residence Manager.

CONTACT

Any student living in residence

After first year, Arts and Humanities students have the opportunity to apply for internships to gain experience outside of the classroom.

FUN FACT 2

SOCIAL RESOURCES

The Rec Centre

Membership to Western’s Student Recreation Centre is included in your tuition — don’t forget to make use of it! There’s a pool, yoga and Zumba classes, countless organised sports for the exercise-inclined among us, and a Booster Juice to help you recover after a workout. There are a variety of drop-in classes (spin, sculpt & sweat, cardio kickboxing!) scheduled weekly, and many intramural sports to play!

The Spoke & Wave

Two words: “Spoke fries.” They taste like happiness and rainbows. And the bagels? Incredible. All the food offered at The Spoke and The Wave is amazing, and the staff are incredibly friendly. You can pay for food at these eateries with the Flex Dollars on your Student Card!

USC Clubs Week

With almost 200 clubs to choose from, there’s something here for you!

Get involved during Clubs Week which takes place in September. This event showcases all of the clubs and provides students with a chance to learn more about the opportunities available within each one!

Writer-in-Residence

The Writer-in-Residence and Student Writer-in-Residence can help you workshop creative pieces (or an essay!) in a stress-free environment. Professors can be intimidating to go and talk to so it’s nice to have a professional writer or fellow student to discuss your work with before it needs to be submitted.

This year’s Writer-in-Residence is January Rogers. She owns and operates Ojistoh Publishing and Productions where she lives on Six Nations territory of the Grand River, and has many published literary titles! This year’s Student Writer-in-Residence is Matthew Dawkins, whose debut coming-of-age novel, Until We Break, is set to release on September 20, 2022.

photo by JACK BRADLEY

INTERVIEW WITH STUDENT WRITER IN RESIDENCE, MATTHEW DAWKINS

BY: ELLA EUM (AVP COMMUNICATIONS)

Can you elaborate on the Student - Writer - in - Residence position? What is the role and what does this opportunity mean for you?

As Student Writer-in-Residence, my primary role is to enhance and support the career writing community at Western. I’ve been offered this role due to my own interest and experience with creative writing. I feel that being in this position, I’m really given an opportunity to not only bring back it’s amazing and incredible groundwork for creativity – setting the stage for what creative writing can look like on campus – but also being able to renovate some different aspects of the role to make it more fresh and reintroduce what it can look like for the wider arts community

What urged you to apply for this role?

I feel that Western is a really great spot for a lot of different creative outlets and there are so many spaces where studentsare allowed to be creative and express themselves. But in my experience, I feel like those spaces are really disjointed. There are different clubs, then there are student councils and then there are so many different events. I’d love to better help amalgamate the spaces that already

exist and be able to interweave them into different creative areas and build a more unified creative community on campus. What are some goals you want to accomplish as the SWIR in the upcoming academic year?

I really love a creative space that’s able to empower all types of different voices. I’m really looking forward to partnering with and working alongside ethnic and racial groups, LGBTQ+ groups on campus, etc., just to make sure that we’re building an inclusive community to the people that are usually excluded. From step one, we’re having a diverse space incorporating belonging in a way that’s meaningful for everyone and allows us to equitably sharea space, listen to another, and learn from those who may have different experiences than us. What has been the most exciting aspect of your writing career path so far?

It easily has to be my debut novel, which is coming on September 20th, Until We Break. It holds such a big place in my heart because I wrote that novel in such a critical time in my adolescence where I was really looking into what coming of age meant to me and what thematic concerns I felt are relevant for people my age. It was also the first time finding my voice, since it was the first book I’d ever written and my first attempt at writing long-form prose. So it was about me finding agency and believing in myself and then watching that take off

and find a home with other people. Having other people accept, feel, and fall in love with that has been very, very gratifying to me.

What is the book about?

Until We Break is a coming-of-age novel about a dancer named Naomi, the only black ballet dancer at her academy. Just as Naomi is about to enter the competition that will define her career, her best friend passes away. So, Naomi has to put the loss of her best friend on the back burner in order to succeed in the competition. We see how her mental and physical well-being begins to deteriorate as she suffers injuries and her life at home starts to shift. The novel follows Naomi’s ballet journey and explores how she learns to reprioritize her life, coming to terms with grief, self-expression, and her own identity. It is also about the friends she makes and the community she is able to build along the way.

Where did you find your inspiration?

I feel like I’m inspired by everything. My own personal life plays a really big role, as well as the interactions that I have with other people. But, I pull and draw from the mundane, from my imagination, and from the people around me. I always try to make sure when I’m looking for inspiration, I’m not only lookingfrom one place. I never want to restrict myself by thinking about the world in one specific way or only pulling from one specific area, so I try to

pull from everything.

What has been the best piece of advice you’ve received as a writer?

The biggest piece of writing advice I’ve ever received, which I still take to heart to this day, is to write the stories, the poetry, the plays, that you want to read or be a part of – write with yourself in mind. It’s very easy to feel that to be taken seriously, you have to walk a certain path; that, to enter a room, you must include certain types of characters. But as long as you’re staying true to yourself and writing the story you feel you need to tell, that authenticity will shine through. And that’s the best way to build community: when you’re being honest, truthful, and genuine.

Lastly, how can students get in touch with you and get updates about your new book? Students can contact me through my Instagram, which is @matthewd_writes. There is also my Student Writer-in-Residence email, which is studentwriterinresidence @ westernusc ca. Additionally, there will likely be a Student Writer-in-Residence Instagram page to visit.

photo by Jack Bradley

MACADEMIC RESOURCES

Academic Councelling

Located in University College (UC) Suite 2230, this is where you can go for help with course advice and registration. Your Arts and Humanities academic counsellors are extremely knowledgeable and are here to make you feel comfortable in all aspects of your degree requirements. Get to know them and ask them any questions you might have!

Contact arts@uwo.ca or (519) 661-3043 *email is preferred; please include your student number*

Drop-in Hours

Monday - Thursday: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

For more, visit https://www.uwo. ca/arts/counselling/index.html

Student Central

Located in the Student Services Building, Room 1120, visit Student Central for a variety of different services. Here you can receive a transcript, replace a student card, or chat with a Financial Aid Officer about bursaries, OSAP, budgeting, or anything else finance-related. Contact their Virtual Helpline

(https://studentservices.uwo.ca/ callBack/ ) for questions of all kinds.

Contact

contact@uwo.ca or (519) 661-2100

In Person Hours (for pick up of ordered documents only):

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Online Chat Hours

(https://westernchat.uwo.ca/):

Monday-Thursday9:00AM- 6:00pm Friday: 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Writing Support Centre

Located in the Student Services building, room 4100, The Writing Support Centre is there to help with essay advice, cover letter tips, or even with a thesis! You can book a virtual or in-person appointment with a counsellor or attend one of the writing seminars to sharpen your skills. Note that appointments book up fast during essay season (November and March)!

Contact

wsc@uwo.ca or (519) 661-3655

Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Online Writing Assistance

http://writing.uwo.ca/undergrads/online_writing_help.html

BEYOND THE BEYOND THE

Beyond your first year, you will begin fulfilling more of the requirements for your module (which in the humanities often includes more choice to follow your interests)! Information on what classes you may need to take can be found on Western’s website, on Draft My Schedule, or by visiting academic counselling. You can find more information on module requirements in the Western Academic Calendar at https://www.westerncalendar.uwo.

Writing your first humanities essay is a daunting task, so here are 10 tips that will help you get started:

1. Say goodbye to the hamburger: In many high schools, students are taught to use the hamburger format when writing their essays. That is, writing a one paragraph introduction, three paragraphs each with their own supporting argument, and one paragraph for the conclusion. In university, by no means must you follow this five paragraph structure. Use as many paragraphs as you need!

2. Be passionate: It is so much easier to write an essay about a topic you are passionate about rather than one you have nointerest in. If you are interested in what you are writing about, you are more likely to

understand your argument and receive a higher grade.

3. Editing: Please, please, please edit! Editing your work can make the difference between receiving a B or an A grade! This means double-checking grammar, reading your essays aloud to catch awkward phrasing, having your peers read your work, going to the writing centre, and discussing work with your professor. Never be nervous to ask for help!

4. No fluff: If you are having trouble reaching the required word count, do not fill the empty space with fluff! Remember, everything you write should be about proving your thesis. Go back and dive deeper into your argument; not only will this help you reach the word count, it will make your essay stronger.

FIRST YEAR FIRST YEAR

5. Using sources: All formal essays require academic, peer-reviewed sources! When choosing sources and quotations for your essay, ensure the source is helping you prove your thesis. Additionally, when researching, check the bibliographies of the sources you are using. This may help you find new sources and information relevant to your research.

6. Citing: When profs are grading your essays, proper citation matters! A popular citation style in the humanities is MLA style, and there are many guides you can refer to for help. A site professors recommend for university students is Purdue Online Writing Lab.

7. Thesaurus?: Many firstyear students consult a thesaurus when writing their essays because they want to use scholarly language. Our advice is: do not overdo it! Using too many big words can distract from the point you are making and disrupt the flow of your writing.

8. Time management: When writing an essay, leave yourself lots of time to research and write! It will be extremely stressful to write an essay in one sitting (and pulling all-nighters suck). It also helps if you can give yourself a few days between drafts. Approaching your work after taking a break can help you edit with a fresh pair of eyes.

9. Clichés: Do not use them! Clichés can be vague and distract attention away from your work. It is much more effective to say what you mean directly in an academic essay. Just ask your profs!

10. Plagiarism: What a scary word! When using sources in your essays, make sure you cite them! This means you must give credit for any information you take from someone else, whether it is as a direct citation or in your own words. Many professors check student essays through Turnitin to ensure nothing has been plagiarised.

DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEES

The Coterie: English Society

We help students find opportunities to share their work, connect with their peers, and attend fun events. We also aim to create awareness about the opportunities available to students at university and beyond. We will be hosting a poetry slam and several social events; in the past, this has included book-to-movie film screenings, writing workshops, and academic and career information sessions. Coterie events are open to students from all faculties and every event is free to attend! Follow us on Instagram @westerncoterie!

School of Thought

Hey, philosophy students! We are a social and academic collective dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where you make lasting friendships with those who share your passion for philosophy. Our club brings together people with similar interests and encourages philosophical discourse through tons of fun social and academic events throughout the year, all of which are free and open to all students. Follow us on Instagram @uwoschoolofthought!

Visual Arts Supporters Association

VASA is a collection of students dedicated to generating community within the Visual Arts faculty and further integrating visual arts into the culture at Western. We host several events throughout the year, such as art sales, bake sales, social nights, and screenings. VASA produces an annual publication called Aeterna, which allows artists to explore a wide range of topics in a collective theme. Follow us on Instagram @vasawestern!

ICONOCLAST Collective

ICONOCLAST is an arts and culture collective aiming to discuss student and campus issues through an intersectional, inclusive, and expressive lens to elevate the student experience. Although we are housed in the warm arms of the AHSC, we welcome students from every department and background to highlight the creativity on our campus! Along with a bi-annual publication, we are expanding our events to include gallery showings and workshops. Follow us on Instagram @iconoclastuwo!

Western Undergraduate Film Society

WUFS provides free weekly screenings of curated films throughout the academic year to all Western students. WUFS also hosts an annual film festival to celebrate and display local filmmakers from the Western and Fanshawe communities. The festival allows filmmakers to network and screen their films to an audience, while a selected panel of judges will determine the top three films for the reward of a cash prize! Follow us on Instagram @wufsofficial!

The Gender Studies Student Collective

The Gender Studies Student Collective (GSSC) is a group of dedicated thinkers who are committed to representing the interests of students in the Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies (GSWS) department. The Collective provides avenues for GSWS students to develop academically through assignment workshops, study days, and the undergraduate student publication, Tulips Journal. We also host social events, like our annual Feminist Mixer. Follow us on Instagram @gsscwestern!

Spanish Club

Want to learn about Hispanic & Latin cultures? Learn or improve your Spanish speaking?¿Eres español(a) o latino(a)? ¡Ven diviértete con nosotros! This club offers various opportunities, from learning and improving the Spanish language, to familiarising students with Latin American and Spanish cultures, and making friends along the way! Follow us on Instagram @uwospanishclub!

The Classics Society

We are a departmental committee dedicated to bringing together students with an interest in ancient history. From Classics students to those passionate about Ancient Greece, Rome, and the Eastern Mediterranean, we strive to make Classics enjoyable for everyone! We also organise fun events demonstrating the relevance of Classical Studies to a variety of disciplines and everyday life. Follow us on Instagram @westernclassicssociety!

Western Arts and Theatre Community Hub (WATCH)

An extension and evolution of the AHSC’s Arts and Theatre Community Committee, WATCH aims to bring together theatre lovers in a safe and supportive community, whether you have years of theatre-going experience or have never seen live theatre before. WATCH also hopes to train student critics by developing analytical and review-writing skills in a low-pressure environment. Whether you wish to participate through patronage or actively work towards improving your skills as a critic, there is a place for you at WATCH! Visit the AHSC website for info on how to join departmental committees!

FUNFACT3

Westernhasover200clubsthatyoucanjoin!From mentalhealthadvocacytojuggling,thereissureto beoneyou’reinterestedin.

PUBLICATIONS

Semicolon is a bi-annual publication demonstrating 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.

Symposium is a bi-annual publication showcasing 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!

In partnership with Western’s Arts and Humanities faculty, the AHSC created Spotlight to help students connect with our renowned alumni. Student volunteers interview alumni, listen to their stories, and reflect on the insights provided by alumni experiences. The interviews are then shared with other students in print and web publications. Questions? Send an email to the AHSC’s Alumni Relations Commissioner, Mary Hamilton, at mhamil97@uwo.ca.

Want to submit to pubs? More information will be forthcoming in the fall. Follow our Instagram and Facebook at @ahscpubs for all the updates!

In the meantime, read our previous publications online at issuu.com/ahscpubs.

Academic Managing Editor: Abbie Fasurek

Copy Editor: Samantha Ellis

Creative Managing Editor: Demitra Marsillo

VP Communications

& Layout Designer: Michelle Sadorsky

Heythere, from the Editor-in-Chief!

Copy Editor: Julia Piquet

AVP Communications: Ella Eum

Hi, first-years! My name is Safaa, and on behalf of the Publications Team, welcome to your new home away from home. Now, you’re probably wondering, “Why should I read and submit to pubs?” Here is a (non-comprehensive) list of some compelling reasons to convince you. One: seeing your work published (yep, printed with your name under it and everything) is pretty darn satisfying! Two: by seeing others’ work, you can learn about the creative processes behind excellent academic essays and creative works. Need I say more? If you have questions, drop me a message at ahscpubs@gmail.com or through Instagram at @safaa.a.ali. We look forward to seeing your work soon!

Editor-in-Chief: Safaa Ali

IF ONLY WE KNEW IN FIRST YEAR...

Just take it one day at a time. Everything will be ok.

- Emma Ford

Don’t be afraid to do things or be alone! Find out your passions, aspirations, and the impression you’d like to leave.

- Tiffany Lin

It is okay to not meet the expectations you set for yourself since everything is changing!

- Sydney Turner

It’s okay not to get things right the first time. Be patient with yourself.

- Bailey Williams

Time flies fast in second semester. Put more effort into establishing better personal practices in first semester to carry them through into second semester.

- Margaret Gleed

I wish I knew that I was going to make some really great friends, even if it took a little longer than anticipated.

- Gray Brogden

Highlighters are your best friend.

- Evie Marcotullio

ASK, ASK, ASK questions!

-Darcy McVicar

I wish I knew more about the resources and services available to Western students.

- Al-Raffay Mirza

Even if it feels scary to join clubs, go to events, or make new friends, taking steps outside your comfort zone is the best way to embrace the Western experience and have a great first year!

- Asha Saha

You might change your mind about what you want to study and where you want your education to take you, and that’s okay! Study what you are passionate about, not what you think you should be studying!

- Kate Maillet

Although it may seem like your education and degree path are set in stone, there is a lot of flexibility and creativity to be found within each program, especially in the Arts and Humanities. Melding your academic, creative, and personal interests is 100% possible in your studies at Western!

- Cole Van Der Velden

Take chances and try new activities, whether it’s an exciting class, joining a club, or making friends outside your program!

- Maia Ross

Notre situation actuelle présente de nombreux défis pour la vie sociale, mais il est toutefois possible qu’on s’engage dans la communauté My first year was in the midst of the pandemic, making it particularly difficult to meet new people – but I’d say, put yourself out there and talk to your classmates.

- Braden Y

UPCOMING AHSC EVENTS

FIRST SEMESTER

1. Department mixer minievents

2. Purple Sex

3. Wellness Wheel

4. Pubs Launch Event

5. FAM Market

SECOND SEMESTER

1. Date With a Book

2. First Year Event

3. Community Outreach Event

4. Arts Career Series and Alumni Mixer

5. Pubs Launch Event

6. AHSC Play

7. Arts Formal

AHSC is thrilled to bring students safely together again through fun and informative events this year! Check out the AHSC social media accounts to keep up with all of our upcoming events, to find more information, or to suggest new ideas for future events. We can’t wait to see you there!

FAQs

Where do I go if I get ill or need a doctor’s note?

Students are encouraged to book an appointment with Student Health Services in Thames Hall, Room 2170. This is where students can obtain doctor’s notes, counselling and psychiatry, birth control information, allergy injections and immunisation, and STI testing. Western also has two pharmacies! One is in the basement of UCC (519-661-4058) and the other is 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 helps keep campus a safe place to study, work, and live. Simply call 519-661-3650 and two student volunteers will join you on your walk home. You can also download the Western Foot Patrol app, available in the Google and Apple stores! Other safety resources on campus include Campus Police (dial 911) and the Student Emergency Response Team (SERT) (519-661-3300).

Where do I go if I need a space to pray?

University Community Centre, Room 269, is the place to go.

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 the latest information and more. Some A&H departments also have their own social media, like English and Writing Studies.

Where are the best places to study on campus?

Most buildings on campus have study nooks: one, in University College, is a quiet place with natural light and comfortable chairs. The D.B. Weldon Library is a great space if you need to study with peers (floor 2) or accomplish some quiet, serious exam prep (floors 3+). Many science students prefer Taylor Library (located in the Natural Sciences Centre) for its modern atmosphere. Have a few minutes before your next class? The Mustang Lounge, located in the University Community Centre, is a go-to spot for relaxing between classes or getting some quick work done. No matter where you are on campus, there’s likely to be a great study space nearby!

How can I get my work published?

Symposium, Semicolon, and Iconoclast are great places to start! Our departmental committees also have alternative ways of featuring student work, including VASA Feature Fridays, Classics Society Publications, the Coterie’s poetry chapbook publication, and WUFS Film Festival. The student-run Western Gazette newspaper also has plenty of opportunities for involvement, including single-term internships. If you have questions about the publishing process for Symposium or Semicolon, send a message to Safaa Ali, the AHSC’s Editor-in-Chief, by email at ahscpubs@gmail.com or Instagram at @safaa.a.ali.

Where do I go for mental health assistance?

Western has multiple resources to provide you with mental health and wellness services. The Mental Health Helpline is available both online (connexontario.ca/en-ca/) and over the phone (1-866-531-2600). The Student Development Centre (studentexperience.uwo.ca/student_ development/ index.html) provides psychological services, wellness education, sexual violence prevention education, and more. The Peer Support Centre, located on the second floor of the UCC, also provides support for mental health.

Who do I see if I need academic accommodation?

Arts and Humanities has three Academic Counsellors at University College (UC), Suite 2230. If you need medical accommodation, have a family emergency, or have any questions about courses or progression, they can help! Drop into their office or email them with your concerns or questions.

How do I manage all of my classes?

Organise your workload, plan everything beforehand, and make lists. Checking items off a list is not only satisfying but also really helpful. 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 a full-time student!

Do I have to buy all 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 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/. Also, check Western Libraries — they often have required course readings for loan.

What is the best way to get a high mark in a class?

See how everything is weighted. Make note of any tutorial or course participation marks, which can make a huge difference to your final mark! 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.

Where can I find information about COVID-19 protocols and what is open on campus?

For up-to-date information, visit Western’s “What’s Open When?” page: uwo.ca/coronavirus/whats-open. html. In addition, download the Western App and follow Western on social media to keep up-to-date.

CROSS WORD

ACROSS

2.

5.

9.

Where is the best place to get bagels on campus?

What service can I use if I get ill or need a doctor’s note?

What service can I use to safely get around campus at night?

8.

How many Departmental Committees in the A&H can I get involved in?

What can I check to see the weight of all course content in a class?

What building is the AHSC office located in?

What organisational tool can I use to manage my workload?

What is the name of the AHSC publication that showcases academic work?

What is the name of the AHSC publication that showcases creative writing, poetry, visual art, etc?

Who is this year’s AHSC Editor-in-Chief?

Did you find all the hidden letters? Unscramble them to make a word!

WORD SCRAMBLE: mustangs

ANSWERS:

ACROSS (2) Spoke (5) Student Health Services (9) foot patrol

(1) nine (2) syllabus (3) University College (4) checklist (6) semicolon (7) symposium (8) safaa