AUG. 20 – SEPT. 2, 2013
THE
RAMBLING MAYOR CAUGHT ON CAMERA BY GBC STUDENT HUSKIES TRYOUT SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED CANADIAN EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS RULED DISCRIMINATION
PLUS: THINGS TO DO WHEN STUCK IN LINE
GBC SURVIVAL
GUIDE
GBC STUDENT NEWPAPER FOUNDED 1982
EDITORIAL How about we start a Dialog?
PREETEESH PEETABH SINGH NEWS EDITOR
The idea that print media is in dire straits seemed to be supported when Sun Media, one of Canada’s largest newspaper publishers, shut down 11 publications in July. Some important questions resurfaced such as: Is print media really dying? Is social media the new trend or is it just over-hyped? Is it a temporary punch or is it hinting towards a permanent structural change? Today, readers have an unlimited access to free content on the internet. No doubt the competition has shot up with the upsurge of digital media. But that does not mean people shy away from newspapers. We still see a swarm of people rushing to take the subway every morning with coffee in one hand and their copy of a newspaper in the other. People are not willing to compromise with quality. As long as journalists have important stories to tell and provide context to keep readers involved, print media will stay. The same goes for campus journalism. When we said ‘Finally Done!’ in the last edition of our campus newspaper The Dialog
in April, all we meant was we would come back. So, here we are with our first edition this new academic year! Contrary to popular belief that social media is the future of journalism, one might argue it’s just a lot of clutter on the Internet without real substance. We aim to strike a balance between print and digital media in order to get the best out of both platforms. After all, airplanes did not kill trains and trains did not kill cars, they co-exist. The Dialog will boast a new look with integration of infographics, a revamped website with more multimedia, an aggressive approach towards social media, and an energetic group of student journalists who won’t be afraid to dig in deep to unearth some real issues and stories impacting George Brown College and its students. We want to reach out to all new and returning students coming from varied countries, cultures and backgrounds. Ask us anything in our new column, ranging from questions concerning tuition fees to relationship advice. We will publish your questions with our answers. We wish everyone a fantastic start to the year and success in academic, professional, and personal pursuits. We have provided you a platform to share your stories, voice your opinions and engage. Make a merry of it or a mockery. Whatever you do, don’t forget to start a dialogue with The Dialog.
THE DIALOG IS... Managing Editor Mick Sweetman News Editor Preeteesh Peetabh Singh Art Director/Illustrator Samantha Bullis Multimedia Reporter Danilo Barba Staff Reporters Alena Khabibullina Karen Nickel Tina Todaro Follow us on Social Media! Facebook.com/thedialogonline Twitter: @thedialogonline
The Dialog is Published by Student Association of George Brown College
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The Dialog newspaper is published by The Dialog Collective under the auspices of the Student Association of George Brown College. The collective is responsible for the overall vision and direction of The Dialog newspaper, as it coincides with the larger vision of mission of the Student Association. The cost of producing a monthly newspaper is in part defrayed by advertising revenue and largely subsidized by the Student Association. Occasionally, some advertisers, products and services do not reflect the policies of the Student Association. Opinions expressed in The Dialog are not necessarily those of The Dialog Collective, the Student Association of George Brown College, or its editorial staff. The Dialog will not publish any material that attempts to incite violence or hatred against
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
individuals or groups, particularly based on race, national origin, ethnicity, colour, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability. Contributions to The Dialog are always welcome. We request that articles be submitted as digital copies in plain-text (TXT) or rich-text (RTF) format. Letters to the editor can be sent in an email message to dialog@georgebrown.ca. Images should be in EPS format as vector images or TIF format (Mac or PC).
Drop by or contact The Dialog at: Room E122 - Casa Loma 142 Kendal Avenue Toronto, ON M5R 1M3 www.dialog.studentassociation.ca Tel: 416-415-5000 ext. 2764 Fax: 416-415-2491 dialog@georgebrown.ca
if
I KNOW MY STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AND I FOLLOW THE ACADEMIC POLICIES IN PLACE
I KNOW POSITIVE COMMUNICATION WITH MY TEACHERS IS IMPORTANT TO MAXIMIZE MY ACADEMIC SUCCESS
STUDENT ASSOCIATION ACADEMIC ADVOCACY PROGRAM HELPING YOU HELP YOURSELF Room E130 @ Casa Loma Room 147 @ St. James Room 033 @ Waterfront Hotline 416-415-5000 x 6320
NEWS DAILY CHECK UP AUGUST 20 – SEPTEMBER 2, 2013
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
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Crash Course: Your First Week In College All campuses: 9 a.m.– 4 p.m.
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Baseball Tryouts (Men) Howard Talbot Diamond, 6 p.m.
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Labour Day (college closed) Baseball Tryouts (Men) Howard Talbot Diamond, 6 p.m.
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George Brown Orientation Centre For Health Sciences; Centre For Community Services & Early Childhood; Centre For Preparatory & Liberal Studies Guvernment/Koolhaus Complex 132 Queens Quay East.
Sept.
Get To Know Your Campus All Campuses: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
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Buskerfest International Street Performers Festival Yonge from Queen to College and surrounding areas, Free. Aug. 22–25
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George Brown Orientation Centre For Construction & Engineering Technologies; Centre For Business; Centre For Arts & Design Guvernment/Koolhaus Complex 132 Queens Quay East.
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Summer Music Series A Night At The Opera Casa Loma, 1 Austin Terrace 7 p.m.–10 p.m. $10
Strategies For Effective Learning: Study Smarter Not Harder All campuses: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
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George Brown Orientation Centre For Hospitality & Culinary Arts Guvernment/Koolhaus 132 Queens Quay East. Music In St. James Park Combo Royale 7 p.m. –9 p.m. Free
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Along The Front ROM Walk. Front and Jarvis, 6 p.m., Free
Toronto FC Vs. New England BMO Field, 7 p.m. Save up To 40% when you buy tickets online with the password: CFSTUDENTS
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Toronto International Film Festival TIFF Bell Lightbox (350 King W) and other venues, Sept. 5– 15
GBC Fest Featuring Ace Hood Sherbourne Commons (beside Waterfront campus) 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free
Ensuring your safety and security at George Brown College KAREN NICKEL STAFF REPORTER
Students coming to college (and their families) can have anxiety about safety and security while attending classes. Anxiety is understandable, Toronto is a large, diverse metropolis and college campuses reflect that. But according to Statistics Canada’s 2012 Uniform Crime Report , incidents reported to Toronto Police Service have dropped by seven per cent from last year. This has been the case for the last six years. While these decreases are reassuring, crime and violence does happen. George Brown College (GBC) has multiple campuses and a highly diverse student popula-
tion spread across many neighbourhoods in downtown Toronto. Each campus has different safety issues associated with it; depending on location and whether they are day or night classes. GBC recently signed a multi-million dollar contract with Paladin Security to manage campus safety. Familiarizing yourself with the locations of campus offices and their emergency numbers is recommended, especially for women. According to the report Developing a Response to Sexual Violence: A resource guide for Ontario colleges and universities, published by The Ontario Women’s Directorate in January, between 15 and 25 per cent of college and university-aged women have experienced sexual violence.
The guide has many recommendations for stopping sexual violence on school campuses. It provides information on stopping, preventing and responding to sexual violence. Students can read about interrupting violence and violent language and how to respond to survivors of sexual violence. The Toronto Police Service website has a “crime map” for Toronto neighbourhoods specifying the places where crimes occurred and what the crime was for the past month. It might be helpful to see if there is a pattern in the neighbourhoods you frequent. If you have experienced assault, harassment, bullying, sexual violence, or partner violence talk to someone about it, either on campus or off.
Some safety tips: • Don’t focus on texting when walking, especially at night • Walk in lit areas • Keep music down to hear what happens around you • Wait to give out contact and personal information until you have gotten to know the person • Program police and campus emergency numbers into your phone • Speak up if you see, or hear something happening to others if safe to do so • Don’t study in isolated areas.
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
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OPINION Save some lives while you wait in line! KAREN NICKEL Each September, students find themselves getting familiar with the back of each other’s heads. It’s the back to school rush to line up. Line up at registration; line up at the book store; and those long Tim Horton’s lines. Take a number at student services and realize, with horror, that there are 100 people ahead of you! What’s a person to do? The origin of the words ‘line up’ can be traced back to the French, ‘queue’, which is from the Latin, ‘cauda’ meaning ‘tale’. There is an actual mathematical study of line ups called Queueing Theory. This is used in business and customer service models to facilitate the “efficient means of customer routing”, (thanks Wikipedia). None of that helps you when you are in one though. How do you pass the time in a way that doesn’t make you cranky and frustrated? It’s much easier now than it was 20 years ago. The amount of digital technology available is mind-boggling. Hand held games; free cell phone apps for iPhones and iPads (my favourites are Adult Swim’s Amateur Surgeon and Robot Unicorn Attack); and don’t forget listening to music on iPods. You look out of place if you aren’t, gaming, texting, or tweeting, or (for the more adventurous) consensual sexting while waiting in line. But, with so many choices, what do you choose? I like books and always have one with me just in case I come across a line I have to stand in. Recently, I have discovered E-readers which have changed my life completely. I can carry volumes of novels, manga (Japanese comics), non-fiction and textbooks in a device that’s the size of the slimmest day planner. I’ll never be bored again (unless I leave it at home). Without technology, we are left with our imaginations and our ability to strategize, plan and communicate with each other. I recently saw photos from China, where 10,000 people lined up to buy gold. Imagine that line next time you’re waiting to buy your coffee. Think of the patience and the time that’s necessary to be able to wait in that line. The one you’re in doesn’t look so bad anymore, does it? Now load up Amateur Surgeon and save some lives while you wait to buy textbooks!
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the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
NEWS George Brown student encounters Mayor Ford at Taste of the Danforth TINA TODARO STAFF REPORTER
Are you stressed out already? TINA TODARO STAFF REPORTER
Getting back to school can be an exciting moment, but stressful for some too. It can be an exhausting time, especially for international students who are in the country for the first time. Because of stress, students may begin to feel overwhelmed, and may begin to develop anxiety, which could possibly hinder academic success and job performance. Stress should not be taken lightly as it can advance into severe issues such as increased blood pressure and insomnia. It is important for all students to find proper ways to cope with it. Lauren Davis, 24, states that she found the services offered at George Brown to be an excellent tool that students should use. “There are always people around to help you and talk to you about anything you’re concerned about,” said Davis. Services provided by the college include one on one counselling for both academic and personal issues. Coun-
sellors work together with students to come up with strategizes that can help reduce stress. There are many other services such as tutoring, as well as workshops provided through student services that can help students with time management. According to Stress and the College Student by National Health Ministries, to minimize the effects of stress within educational settings, opportunities such as going to class, getting involved with campus activities, and taking advantage of the services and resources offered by the college, are a few ways that can help students’ feelings of stress. Issues of stress are not only faced within the academic lives of students, but their personal lives as well. Sleep, exercise and proper diet are also useful in managing symptoms of stress and can not only help with personal satisfaction, but also with academic success. With assignments, presentations and exams fast approaching, students must utilize the resources around them, and within the college, to aid them in managing their stress before it escalates.
Every year the city of Toronto hosts its annual Taste of the Danforth, a festival designed to celebrate Toronto’s Greek community. This year, not only did the Greek community get publicity, but so did Toronto’s Mayor Rob Ford. On Friday, Aug. 9, a full-time George Brown College finance student, Mala Turay, 20, was a witness to Ford’s visit to Taste of the Danforth. Two blocks south of the Danforth at Greenwood Ave., Turay filmed Ford as proof to his friends that not only had he seen the Mayor, but apparently saw him in an intoxicated state. Describing Ford’s behavior, Turay said, “He was noticeably intoxicated, swaying side to side, slurring words and rambling at times.” Turay filmed Ford around 9:45 p.m. when he noticed Ford taking to his neighbours. “When I first saw him talking to my neighbours, as pictured, he was alone by his truck and when I got closer he looked intoxicated,” said Turay. “My concern was the drinking and driving part.” In the video Ford can be heard saying, “I’m not driving. I’m not driving.” after being asked by Turay if he drove there. Responding to the extent of the publicity created by his videos, which have been viewed a combined 700,000 times, Turay said, “I never thought it would get this big,” and that he believed the video would simply be viewed and laughed off. Turay’s video was one of a number of videos and photos posted to social media of
He was noticeably intoxicated, swaying side to side, slurring words, and rambling at times Ford’s visit to Taste of the Danforth. “I’m concerned because this isn’t the first time he’s been reported as intoxicated at a public event,” said Turay. “He did admit to a couple of beers, but when? I didn’t see him drink anything but coffee.” This incident was one in a chain of several allegations of alcohol and drug use by Ford in the past year. What began as a simple visit to an annual Toronto event turned into yet another story about Ford’s questionable conduct.
PHOTO: MALA TURAY/YOUTUBE
Above Stills from video taken of the Mayor appearing intoxicated at the Taste of the Danforth festival
Right George Brown student Mala Turay took the video, which circulated widely on social media. PHOTO: MALA TURAY/FACEBOOK
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
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GBC SURV
Your guide to the many resources and services available to you to su
Health Benefits
STUDENT ASSOCIATION SERVICES
See article on page 9 416.415.5000(ext. 2443)
TTC Sales
Purchase at any Student Association office on the last five school days of the month. 416.415.5000(ext. 6395)
Student Life Food
A wide selection across the campuses—check out the Kings Lounge at St. James for great food and theme nights like Mojito Mondays, or the Casa Loma Student Centre for a range of options.
Events
The SA hosts tons of events thoughout the year, including boat cruises, casino nights, outings, various parties and licensed events. More info at www.studentassociation.ca
Clubs
Join or start your own club at George Brown College! saclubs@georgebrown.ca
GBC Athletics (Okay, this is run by the college, not the SA) See page 8 for Huskies tryouts. www.georgebrown.ca/athletics
LifeWorks Community Action Centre
Including the Centre for Women and Trans People, and Community Groups for LGBTQ Students, Aboriginal Students, International Students, and ASL Community. 416.415.5000(ext. 2439), St. James 165B, Casa Loma E130
Academic Advocacy
The Academic Advocacy program assists students with their academic problems and helps them address violations of their student rights. 416.415.5000(ext. 6320) korantes@georgebrown.ca
Food Bank
The Student Association runs emergency food banks at the St. James,Waterfront and Casa Loma campuses. For days and hours of operation contact: 416.415.5000(ext. 6314) safoodbank@georgebrown.ca
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the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
VIVAL GUIDE
upport your life in College: both inside and outside of the lecture hall!
Peer Tutoring (English and Math)
Peer tutoring assists students in reaching thier academic goals. 416.415.5000(ext. 3662) www.georgebrown.ca/tlc
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Centres
Learning stratigies, resources for study groups, and information on student success program initatives. www.georgebrown.ca/pal
Disability Services
Providing equal access to education for students with disabilities. 416.415.5000(ext. 2622) www.georgebrown.ca/disabilityservi
Financial Assistance
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
For all your OSAP questions and forms. 416.415.5000(ext. 2476 for St. James; 4062 for Casa Loma; 2960 for Waterfront)
Awards and Scholarships
Connecting you with scholarships, awards, and bursaries. awards@georgebrown.ca
Career Services
Your connection to the world of work! 416.415.5000(ext. 2622)
Counselling
PERSONAL SUPPORT
A free and confidential service to provide a safe space for students to talk, explore and work through their difficulties. 416.415.5000(ext. 2107 for St. James; 4585 for Casa Loma; 5370 for Waterfront)
Diversity, Equity, and Human Rights
Confidential advice related to harassment and discrimination. www.georgebrown.ca/diversity 416.415.5000 (ext.6670/4715/4609)
Safewalk
SAFETY
Call 416.415.5000(ext. 2020) and have a Safewalk team come and meet you to walk you to a GBC building, parking lot or TTC stop.
Security Services/First Aid
Contact Public Safety and Security. Security staff are qualified to perform CPR and emergency first aid. See article on page 3. 416.415.5000(ext. 8000) Emergency line: 416.415.4000
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
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SPORTS Huskies tryout schedule announced PREETEESH PEETABH SINGH NEWS EDITOR
The Siberian Huskies are renowned for their strength, speed and energy. They are not only used for pulling sleds in the arctic but can also be a household pet. George Brown College (GBC) athletics, also known as the Huskies, have been focusing on getting some inspiration from the versatility of a Husky as they aim to break some athletics records in the new season. With students coming in for their new collegiate season starting this fall, the management is expecting a larger participation in sports and fitness activities. The athletics office located on the sixth floor of St. James campus boasts a fully func-
tional new studio space where all the fitness classes will be held. This is in addition to the gym, which opened earlier this year. Deanna Oliver, women sports and fitness co-ordinator said as a message to all the students, “Make sure you find us up here, come and participate in everything.” Elysha Ali, a GBC athletics staff who also works out regularly at the gym said, “It’s a great environment to be in. It’s very friendly and we are very helpful up here.” Women’s outdoor soccer from GBC debuts in Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) this year. OCAA also announced its first Baseball schedule starting from September. Floorball will be introduced as an intramural sport.
Varsity tryout schedule 2013–2014 Badminton (Co-ed) Tues Sept 24 • 7 pm • Casa Loma Gym Thurs Sept 26 • 7 pm • Casa Loma Gym Tues Oct1 • 8:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Thurs Oct 3 • 7 pm • Casa Loma Gym Cross Country Running (Co-ed) Thurs Sept 5 • 6 pm • Rivedale Park East • Track Sat Sept 7 • 12 pm • Rivedale Park East • Track Mon Sept 9 • 6 pm • Rivedale Park East • Track Wed Sept 11 • 6 pm • Rivedale Park East • Track Soccer (Men) Sat Aug 17 • 9 am –3 pm • Cherry Beach • West Field Sun Aug 18 • 4 pm • Cherry Beach • East Field Soccer (Women) Sat Aug 17 •12:30 pm • Cherry Beach • West Field Sun Aug 18 • 5 pm • Cherry Beach • West Field Volleyball (Men) Mon Sept 9 • 8.30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Wed Sept 11 • 7 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA)
Volleyball (Women) Mon Sept 9 • 7 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Tues Sept 10 • 5:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Wed Sept 11 • 8:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Sun Sept 15 • 10 am • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Mon Sept 16 • 7 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Tues Sept 17 • 5:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Wed Sept 18 • 8:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Basketball (Men) Fri Sept 6 • 6 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Tues Sept 10 • 7 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Basketball (Women) Mon Sept 9 • 5:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Tues Sept 10 • 8:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Wed Sept 11 • 5:30 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Thurs Sept 12 • 7 pm • Alex Barbier Gym (SJA) Sun Sept 15 • 1 pm • Casa Loma Gym Baseball (Men) Mon Aug 26 –Thurs Aug 29 • 6 pm Mon Sept 2–Thurs Sept 5 • 6 pm Howard Talbot Diamond
PHOTO: PREETEESH PEETABH SINGH/THE DIALOG
Athletes warm up for a rigorous round of soccer tryouts last season.
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the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
- FOR STUDENTS & FAMILIES students beginning in september opt out & opt in deadline: thursday, october 3, 2013 students beginning in january opt out & opt in deadline: thursday, february 6, 2014 (students beginning in september are not eligible) students beginning in september family enrollment deadline: thursday, october 10, 2013 students beginning in january family enrollment deadline: thursday, february 13, 2014 (students beginning in september are not eligible) hotline: 416.415.5000 ext. 2443/2455/4730 sashbasst@georgebrown.ca visit a student association office for more information: st. james campus room 147 ’ casa loma campus room e100 waterfront campus room 033 ryerson campus room 614 (she building) hours of operation: monday to thursday 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. friday 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. (please contact the ryerson student association office at 416.415.5000 ext. 4049 for hours of operation). studentassociation.ca facebook.com/runyourfuture twitter.com/sagbc
BUSINESS Purge of ‘Canadian experience’ barrier brings hope to skilled immigrants DANILO BARBA MULTIMEDIA REPORTER
Canada was the first country in the world to adopt multiculturalism as an official policy in 1971. But more than 40 years later, international students and immigrants still turn to unpaid work such as volunteering, internships or low-skilled ‘survival jobs’ to meet the requirements for Canadian experience. After consulting with newcomers to Canada in the last 10 years, Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) found that many of them end up in jobs that do not correspond to their education, skills or experience. Nevertheless, OHRC’s new policy launched on July 15 states employers need to ask all about a job applicant’s previous work, however where they got their experience should not matter. “Ontario attracts highly-skilled immigrants from all over the world,” commented OHRC’s chief commissioner Barbara Hall. “But if they have to meet a requirement for Canadian experience, they can’t get a job without Canadian experience and they can’t get experience without a job. In most
cases, that is discrimination under Ontario’s Human Rights Code.” Githin Mathew, a postgraduate student in International Business Management at George Brown College (GBC), has been facing this situation since he came from India in January. “The biggest barrier I have faced is companies’ requirement for Canadian experience,” Mathew said. “We as students hope to get experience by working with a Canadian company, and the companies intend to employ students only if they have Canadian experience.” Harmeet Singh Kohli, professor at GBC’s centre for business says, “if the experience acquired abroad is relevant to domestic, political, economical and cultural environment, then there is no reason for the employer not to take it into account; but that it is still an employer’s decision.” With the new policy, employers are advised to be more specific on their ads and job postings than just requiring Canadian experience. Examples include: education, independent study, on-the-job training and volunteering. Meanwhile, there are posi-
PHOTO: DANILO BARBA/THE DIALOG
“The biggest barrier I have faced is companies’ requirement for Canadian experience,” says Githin Mathew, a postgraduate student in International Business Management at George Brown College
tions where the skills demanded are in fact improved by international experience on the resume. “It seems like discrimination to me. My line of work comprises international standard codes, procedures and software, so I would consider hiring skilled professionals independently of their country of origin in a selection,” said Geoff David Barr Watson, owner of creative agency The New Beat. “My opinion is that foreigners may actually aggregate fresh knowledge to the company, and I believe that a new policy can definitely address the Canadian experience issue.” said Watson.
Bob Eichvald, manager of the career services at George Brown’s St. James campus said, “A lack of work experience can be a barrier for students when they are job searching. We encourage both domestic and international students to acquire work experience while completing their study programs.” There are many ways to do this, which includes internships, co-ops, part-time jobs, summer jobs, volunteer programs and extra-curricular activities. “Any opportunity a student may have to gain experience in the employment market will make them a more desirable candidate to potential employers,” said GBC career advisor James Vandervoot.
Relief from medical bills through health benefits coverage TINA TODARO STAFF REPORTER
Health-care expenses can be costly for many students. In conjunction with Green Shield Canada, the Student Association of George Brown College (SA) has worked to provide students with health and dental coverage. The goal of the SA is to provide students with protection against costly medical bills, which for many are too high to pay for on top of educational expenses. Yukiko Ito, the SA’s senior co-ordinator of member services said, “It is beneficial for students to have the Student Association health benefits so they can focus on studying without worrying about health-care bills.” There are three types of coverage provided by the SA: 1. International students under the post-secondary program have hos pital and medical coverage plus health and dental coverage. 2. International students under the ESL program have hospital and medical coverage only. 3. Domestic full-time students have health and dental coverage. The benefit booklet on the Green Shield website provides an outline of the health and dental coverage, as well as associated costs such as the percentage that students must co-pay.
Some benefits include: • Up to $5,000 of prescription drug benefits a year, including hormones for transgendered students and contraceptives. • $500 for hearing aids, repairs or replacement parts every four years. • $1,000 per year for psychologists or counsellors/social workers. • $100 for glasses or contact lenses and $65 for eye exams every two years. • Up to $2,000 for private tutorial service from a qualified teacher. To qualify, a student must be con fined to home or hospital for a minimum of 30 consecutive days. • $750 of dental coverage per benefit year. Students can visit the SA office located at each campus for forms and information regarding the health benefits. If a student already has existing equivalent coverage, and does not require additional coverage, they can opt out of the plan by the required deadlines. Domestic students must opt out through the Green Shield website while international students must pick up a form at an SA office. Benefit cards can be picked up at the SA offices, but locations are specific to the types of coverage. International students can pick up their cards at their home campus, domestic students can pick them up at any campus, and ESL students at St. James campus only.
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
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ASK US ANYTHING Ask us anything! KAREN NICKEL & DANILO BARBA STAFF REPORTERS
Why do I have to pay a student Activity Fee? What’s it for? The Student Activity Fee ($87.42 per semester) is a way for the Student Association to keep a funding stream for all the amazing things they offer full-time students. Services range from funding an academic advocacy advisor to guide students through the sometimes confusing process of appealing your grades to providing awards and scholarships for students who qualify. Fees also go towards having social events and clubs for students to get involved with; it helps to keep the student food bank going; and it pays for your campus newspaper and online media sites. All of these services are why there are student fees. -K.N. I’ve started to see someone over the summer and both of us are enrolled in George Brown this year. We will be spending all our free time together. I was wondering if there is anywhere on campus we can find condoms in case we run out? Great question! The Community Action Centre has a basket with different kinds of condoms where students can grab as many as they need. The best part is that they are free! Torontonians are pretty lucky in that there are a number of places providing safer sex products around town that you never have to buy them again. Some places even have non-latex brands, lube, and female condoms. If the Community Action Centre on your campus doesn’t have any condoms send them an email and ask them to put some out for students. Unfortunately, most places run out of the larger Magnum condoms pretty fast (I think maybe that’s wishful thinking).-K.N. Can I make photocopies from the textbooks? How much of them can be copied legally? Yes, but there are some restrictions. If photocopies do not substitute for the purchase of course texts and the portion copied is insubstantial (up to 10 per cent of a work), it can be used in the classroom. -D.B. Does GBC have a hostel? What kind of accommodation do they provide? No, our student residence building will be opening in 2016. But George Brown College’s long-time partner in student homestay
George Brown College: A timeline accommodation, Student Homestay Services (SHS), maintains a network of caring families. To guarantee a spot with a host family, please complete your homestay application by visiting the Student Homestay Services website: www.homestayservices.ca Make sure you do not send your payment to the college! -D.B.
ALENA KHABIBULLINA STAFF REPORTER
1960
Who do I report to if I have been harassed in college?
1967 George Brown College (GBC) was established at 6 p.m. on Nov 14, 1967. The college was named after George Brown who was one of Canada’s Fathers of Confederation. Brown was a reform politician and founder of the Toronto Globe (known today as The Globe and Mail).
Call Public Safety and Security at: 416415-4000 (ext. 8000) or Diversity, Equity, and Human Rights 416.415.5000 (ext. 6670/4715/4609). -D.B.
1968 The college incorporated the two existing provincial trade institutes: the Provincial Institute of Trades and the Provincial Institute of Trades and Occupations.
1970
Am I allowed to use a voice recorder in class? Students may audiotape their class under the following conditions: • They must first ask the faculty for permission to audiotape, and permis sion will not be unreasonably with held. It is recognized that some classes such as group processing classes may not be appropriate for audio recording. • All members of the class must know the class is being taped; • The individual student will only use the tape of class for academic purposes; • The right to privacy of the faculty and the members of the class will be respected; • They submit to faculty a Student Ac commodation Form indicating ‘audio taping’ as an accommodation by the Disability Services office under the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC). -D.B. How can I get my GBC ID?
1969-1990 GBC acquired and opened six schools of nursing and four Toronto Board of Education Adult Education Centres. During these years the college operated nine child-care centres.
1980
1973 GBC acquired Casa Loma campus. 1977 St. James campus opened its doors for students on Oct 31, 1977.
1990
2000
2010
Students can log in to GBC’s wifi network on their devices with their student number and STU-VIEW password. -D.B.
Do you have any questions for us? Send us an email at dialog@georgebrown.ca and Ask Us Anything!
10 the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013
2002 Ryerson University and GBC signed a partnership to offer collaborative programs in Nursing and Early Childhood Education. 2011 GBC announced a new direction towards expanding the college’s commitment in digital media sector by creating new incubator for the School of Design.
Please visit the library circulation desk with a piece of photo ID (Passport, driver’s license) and your timetable. Your photo ID will identify you as student at the college giving you access to many of our facilities, including the open access computer learning centres. -D.B. How can I access internet on my smartphone or laptop at GBC campus?
1971 GBC acquired St. James campus, which was previously occupied by William Coutts Co. a paper product manufacturer.
2012 Launch of the largest $60 million fundraising campaign in the college’s history. In March 2012 Sally Horsfall Eaton donated a $4 million gift to support student learning. GBC officially opened its new Waterfront campus, raised over $7 million for the campus development, scholarships and bursaries. In December, the college received city council’s approval and signed a 100-year lease. 2013 A ground breaking ceremony officially started the construction of The Green Building Centre which is planned to be completed in 2014. This new facility will be a full-scale research centre on green energy, advanced construction systems and computer-enabled, efficient buildings. 2016 is the planned date for the opening of a student residence at the northeast corner of Front and Cherry streets.
2020
PUZZLES & FUN What I wish I knew on the first day of school THE EYEOPENER
TORONTO (CUP) You’ve finally managed to free yourself from your mother’s suffocating goodbye hugs, unloaded your U-Haul truck and unpacked your stuff into your room. Your roommate seems pretty cool and so do the couple of people you’ve met on your floor. All in all, frosh week was a success — you had a little bit too much to drink without embarrassing yourself or waking up on a stretcher. So far so good. You’ve survived. But as orientation comes to an end, you realize classes are approaching and your mind inadvertently starts to create scenarios of everything that could go wrong on your first day. Welcome to university! Don’t worry. Come next year you’ll realize that first-years — and almost everyone else on campus — have very little knowledge of what the hell they’re doing. I’ve put together some advice to help you get through. Everyone is as lost as you are You are not the only one with that dumb look on your face. During my first year, I pulled out my phone and called a friend so whenever I got lost at least I looked less stupid because I was doing something. Try patrolling the grounds with your schedule in hand the day before. It also never hurts to have a printed copy of the map with you. Just be prepared to ask for directions. Smiling is a miracle If you’re living in rez, a simple hello can do wonders. If you’re shy, there are people who are either as shy or shyer than you are. One hello will develop into a ‘hey’ every time you see each other, and before you know it, you’re sitting in a staircase at 2 a.m. talking. On the first day of classes though, chances are the few people you met in rez are not from your program and you’ll find yourself back at square one in terms of meeting buddies. You will be surprised how much easier it is to get lost with a friend than alone. So smile at people. It’s the best icebreaker and it will probably incite a conversation about which program you’re in and which way you’re headed. Whatever you do, don’t be late Most professors never say anything when you walk in late, but you are a fool to think that they won’t care or remember the few who dare to disturb their welcome speech. You don’t want to be the one who receives a snide comment from a gutsy prof. Let somebody else test those waters. Plus, the first 10 minutes of a lecture are usually the best: professors actually crack a couple of jokes before they pull out the bor-
ing stuff. So remember, since you will most likely get lost, make sure you make your way to class with enough time to spare for wandering around disoriented. On the same note, you should never, ever talk in class while the prof is speaking. Yes, it seems like something your mother told you when you were eight. But you have a reputation with profs and a reputation with your friends. Might as well keep the former professional. Talking to your prof does not make you a keener I’ve found out, much later in my university career, that talking to profs after or before class time makes you more personable and they like that. A lot. Plus, they are often very funny, nice people. Think about it, they have spent more time studying their subject than you’ve spent being alive. Talking to them will only benefit you. The library helps you get crap done You don’t need to do work in the library if you don’t want to, but it helps a lot. It’s so quiet that it’s annoying so you have no choice but to study because — well — what else are you going to do? Just make sure you close Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, or whatever distracts you. The library may seem dull, but it forces you to be productive. You’ll appreciate that come midterms. Do not confine yourself to a group of friends There are a wide variety of personalities on campus and, yes, there are cliques. But that doesn’t mean you can only fit in with one group of students. Don’t judge people before you know them. If someone likes to follow sports a lot it does not make them a jock. If someone likes fashion, art, or music it does not make them a hipster. If someone likes clubbing it does not make them a douchebag/baguette. If someone likes video games it does not make them a geek/social outcast/dork. Everyone is cool here, gosh darn it. You’ll find that different people have different things to offer. Remember what they say: You meet your life-long friends in university, so don’t close yourself off from any opportunities to meet awesome people. Come prepared to class I once had to hand in an essay and assumed the professor would have a stapler with him. Wrong. What did I learn? Bread twisters are actually very good — in fact, much better than staples — at holding together papers. What else did I learn? Binding an essay with a bread twister will get you called out and laughed at in front of an
entire lecture room. I now carry a mini-stapler in my bag at all times. Bring everything you need to class. Don’t assume people are going to hand it to you. Money does not grow on trees, surprisingly Seriously, save money. You’ll be thousands of dollars in debt by the time you graduate and although it may not feel that way now — when you’ve got a loaded bank account with student loan money — you will feel it later. Being young at university is the only time when broke equals sexy. Everyone gives you discounts. So be as cheap as you’d like. Check out deals around
campus, avoid cafeteria food (it’s overpriced and unhealthy), and go easy on buying booze. Good grades are great, but they’re not all you need University is about social skills as much as it is about professional skills. A good journalist, for example, can have the best writing technique and flawless use of the language. But without the ability to talk to people, to really converse, he or she is useless. Learn to talk to and read people when you are at school. You will be using these skills for the rest of your professional and personal life.
WEEKLY SUDOKU
SUSANA GÓMEZ BÁEZ
the dialog • august 20 – september 2, 2013 11