We sat with Angelica Georges as she shares her journey of academic transformation and how she’s helping students excel through practical advice. Discover her top tips for balancing school and life, and how social media can be a powerful tool for students.
What inspired you to start sharing academic tips and tricks on social media, and how has this journey evolved since you began in 2021?
When I was in high school, I wasn’t motivated or involved in school. My focus was elsewhere, and academics were not a priority for me. However, meeting the right people and gaining perspective made me realize I needed to take my future more seriously. Toward the end of high school, I became more dedicated to my studies. By the time I reached university, I was fully focused.
Then COVID-19 happened. As a creator who has
connected with millions of students, I’ve observed the challenges students face today. Isolation, lack of motivation, and uncertainty about the future are just a few. During the pandemic, I was laid off from my part-time job, stuck at home, and adjusting to online school. This forced me to reflect on what I was truly good at and how I could help others.
I realized that being a student was my strength. I had turned my life around academically, and I wondered if I could help others do the same — especially during a time when so many students needed extra support. This idea sparked a new chapter in my life. I started a blog to share my school tips and experiences, which eventually evolved into video content on TikTok. I’ve continued sharing practical tips and tricks across TikTok and other platforms, helping students overcome challenges and achieve their academic goals.
How UPEI’s New Training Program Supports Safe Workplaces
UPEI offers free, tailored training programs in workplace safety and cultural awareness to support Canada’s increasingly diverse workforce.
The Office of Continuing Education and Professional Development (OCEPD) at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) offers a range of professional development courses and Certificate programs designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce. “We’ve expanded our offerings to 67 courses and modules, most of which are included in our 14 Certificate programs,” says Alana MacGuigan, Program Officer at the OCEPD. “We’ve also achieved financial growth of 300 per cent over the past three years.”
Courses are in areas including Indigenous cultural awareness, professional office administration, occupational health and
Tania Amardeil
safety, new manager training, and project management. “We also offer customized training options to organizations anywhere in the world,” says MacGuigan. With Canada becoming increasingly diverse, these programs ensure that everyone can fully engage in the workforce.
Meeting workplace needs
Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Training (Safe Work Spaces), supported by a 2023 grant from Employment and Social Development Canada to train federally regulated transportation sectors, is available for free until March 2026.
Safe Work Spaces aligns with Bill C-65, which expanded the definition of
workplace harassment and violence and shortened the time required to resolve a complaint, addresses the unique challenges faced by newcomers, and encourages a supportive work environment for all employees.
“Safe Work Spaces targets those working in road and railway transportation, air transportation, bridges, tunnels, pipelines, and port, ferry, and marine services,” says MacGuigan. The training is accessible in both English and French, accommodating diverse learner needs through various modes including asynchronous learning and live sessions. It’s user-friendly, entirely free, and takes just 45 minutes to complete.
How Universities Prepare Grads for Workforce Success
Canadian universities equip students with essential skills, ensuring graduates are prepared for today’s evolving workforce.
Tania Amardeil
Auniversity degree is more than just a credential; it’s a pathway to higher earnings, broader career options, and greater job stability in an evolving job market. With employment rates and income levels significantly higher for university graduates, Canadian universities are proving their value by equipping students with skills that meet the demands of today’s economy, making a university education one of the most impactful investments for career success.
“University degrees transform people’s lives,” says Gabriel Miller, President and CEO of Universities Canada, an organization that acts as the voice of Canadian universities.
“The value of a degree in today’s economy is clear. There’s really nothing you can do that’ll have a better effect on your career prospects.”
Skills for success
Miller emphasizes that Universities Canada’s 97 public
university members are continuously engaging with students, local businesses, and communities to ensure programs provide valuable skills. This includes technical knowledge in areas like engineering, computer science, and medicine, as well as effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are essential in today’s workforce.
University graduates not only earn more — with bachelor’s degree holders averaging $66,500 annually, master’s graduates around $82,000, and doctorate holders about $97,400 — but they also have better job security and higher employment rates.
In 2023, Statistics Canada reported that the unemployment rate was 4 per cent for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and 3.8 per cent for those with advanced degrees, underscoring the strong return on investment of higher education. With expanding career options and earning potential, a university degree opens doors to a fulfilling and adaptable future.
YorkU’s EUC Students Lead Change for a Sustainable Future
Students in York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change are exploring pathways to become changemakers for a just and sustainable future.
Tania Amardeil
York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC) offers 21st-century education in a student-centric, research-intensive, and inclusive community. The faculty’s innovative interdisciplinary programs and focus on experiential education — including placements, co-op, research projects, and community-engaged learning — bridge the gap between theory and practice with work-integrated learning, effectively preparing career-ready graduates to tackle pressing global challenges.
And with exclusive pathways available in all programs, EUC students can level up and accelerate their careers with direct-entry pathways to graduate studies and specialized degree options.
Meet a few of the students currently studying in the Faculty of EUC:
Gia Pallotta , Environmental Arts & Justice student
Gia Pallotta is focused on a career in the circular economy — a sustainable model that reduces waste and environmental impact by keeping products in use longer. “Participating in the Model United Nations Climate Change conference really ignited my passion,” she says. Her Environmental Arts & Justice program has furthered her understanding of social and environmental justice issues and built skills in qualitative research and environmental ethics. Post-graduation, Pallotta plans to pursue a Master’s in Environmental Studies along with a Graduate Diploma from the Schulich School of Business through YorkU’s Business and the Environment program.
biodiversity and ecosystem services, waste management, energy consumption, and sustainable solutions. Taking advantage of the program’s work-integrated learning, Tim Ong recently gained summer experience at YorkU’s Faculty of EUC’s Las Nubes Ecocampus in Costa Rica. “My experience in Costa Rica was nothing short of phenomenal,” he says. “I gained a better understanding of how sustainable initiatives are used to bring together environmental conservation and socio-economic development in Costa Rica.”
Regina Guzmán, Sustainable Environmental Management and Master in Environmental Studies student
As an international student from Mexico completing EUC’s new 3+2 dual degree pathway (combined undergraduate and graduate program), Regina Guzmán is committed to pursuing a career with meaningful impact. “The 3+2 program offers a more robust curriculum that equips me to enter a new workforce and country with advanced skills, all within just one extra year,” she says. After completing her degree, Guzmán aspires to work in environmental policy analysis and development in Canada. “I also want to expand my community involvement through volunteering and initiate projects that benefit both my Canadian and Mexican communities,” she says.
Laurel Scott, Global Geography student with combined direct-entry in the Bachelors of Education program
Tim Ong, Sustainable Environmental Management student
In the EUC’s Sustainable Environmental Management program, students explore critical issues facing the earth today: the climate crisis, the loss of
Turn your passion into a career with YorkU’s Faculty of EUC. Learn more at yorku.ca/Discover/EUC
Laurel Scott knew she wanted to pursue a teaching career, and YorkU’s Faculty of EUC offered the perfect pathway. “The concurrent education program will put me exactly where I want to be when I graduate,” she says. Scott is also pleased with her decision to pursue Global Geography as her undergraduate degree. “We learn about how political, social, and economic factors, plus intersectionality, affect various populations,” she says. “This is critical knowledge when entering a field like teaching.”
UNIVERSITY OF NIAGARA FALLS CANADA:
A Fresh Approach to Higher Education
A new university in Niagara Falls is saying goodbye to droning lectures and outdated exams to usher in a fresh, tech-savvy approach to education.
Ontario’s newest university, the University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF), is redefining post-secondary education. Built from the ground up with a bold reimagining of higher learning, UNF offers innovative, student-focused programs tailored to the demands of a dynamic modern age.
A new option for future-focused learners
for Teaching Excellence, University of Niagara Falls Canada
“We started with a blank slate,” says David Gray, Provost and Vice-President, Academic. “Our programs and processes are designed entirely around the needs of 21st-century learners balancing family, work, and other commitments.” From flexible scheduling to programs deeply aligned with labour market demands, UNF is rethinking higher education to reflect the realities of modern life.
Unlike some traditional institutions that hesitate to embrace new technologies— or reject them outright — UNF actively integrates emerging tech like AI and VR into its curriculum. “Our graduates are entering a technological world, and we believe that pretending that isn’t the case will do them no favours,” Gray explains. “We make sure they’re equipped with the technical skills, critical thinking, and adaptability needed to thrive, no matter their industry.”
Innovative teaching for real-world success
UNF’s distinctive teaching approach focuses on active engagement and practical application. “Traditional education often emphasizes deliv-
ering content,” says Joe Beer, Director of the Centre for Teaching Excellence. “We’ve shifted the emphasis to the process of learning to help students apply knowledge in real-world settings.”
At UNF, students complete interactive learning materials before class, which leaves classroom time to focus on applied, collaborative activities. The flipped classroom model is consistent across all courses. “Since we focus on application rather than delivery, students leave with practical skills they will actually use in the workplace,” Beer says.
Evaluation methods have also been reimagined. Rather than traditional exams, students are assessed through project-based, real-world scenarios that mirror workplace challenges. “Our goal is to prepare students for the environments they’ll work in,” says Beer. “We’re not just teaching them what to learn, but how to learn.”
Cutting-edge programs aligned with industry needs
UNF’s programs are developed in consultation with industry leaders. Among its offerings are an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences, complete with rigorous lab work and pathways to medical schools, and a Master of Arts in Digital Media and Global Communications, which trains students to leverage AI, VR, and other technologies.
“Students begin engaging with real-world case studies from day one,” Gray says. “By graduation, they’ve had multiple industry touchpoints, making them ready to hit the ground running.”
Rounding out the initial pro -
gram offerings at the university, which launched earlier this year, is a Master of Data Analytics, Master of Management, and Honours Bachelor of Business Administration. Each of the programs have been designed to address the ever-evolving needs of the global workforce today and in the future.
Empowering students through feedback-driven innovation
Student feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the university’s programs and policies. Beyond traditional course evaluations, students have multiple meaningful opportunities to share their perspectives.
Regular feedback sessions with faculty, program directors, and even senior leadership let students contribute to the continuous improvement of their education. “Our success as an institution depends on the success of our students,” says Beer.
In other words, this isn’t bog-standard, top-down education—it’s a collaborative partnership. In UNF’s view, that’s the best way to keep their learning experiences relevant, engaging, and impactful.
This was sponsored by York University
This was sponsored by University of Niagara Falls Canada
Veronica Stephenson
Gray
Your Guide to Private Schools
Kingsway College School’s New Financial Assistance Program Opens Doors
Kingsway College School has expanded access to its dynamic learning environment by introducing a financial aid program for students entering grades 9-12.
Families searching for exceptional education now have more reasons to consider Kingsway College School (KCS). The only co-ed high school recognized by Canadian Accredited Independent Schools in Etobicoke has introduced financial assistance for new students entering grades 9 to 12, expanding access to its dynamic and experiential learning environment.
Renowned for its innovative educational approach, KCS is a leader in fostering academic achievement and personal growth. This new financial assistance program reflects the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring more families can benefit from the unparalleled opportunities KCS offers.
What makes KCS stand out?
KCS goes beyond academics to develop well-rounded, futureready leaders. Key features of a KCS education include:
• Enriched curriculum: The educational program at KCS challenges students to excel academically.
• Personalized learning: Small class sizes and tailored approaches allow each student to thrive.
• Focus on well-being: The supportive environment nurtures
• Leadership and global perspective: Students are equipped with the skills and mindset to succeed in an interconnected world.
Financial assistance made simple The application process for financial assistance is designed to be straightforward, with guidance provided to families throughout. Interested families are encouraged to visit the KCS website to learn more, sign up for an Open House, or book a tour of the campus.
By introducing this initiative, KCS reaffirms its dedication to shaping the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders. This is an exciting opportunity for families seeking an enriching and transformative educational experience.
J. Addison School: Building Character and a Lifelong Love of Learning
At some schools, character-building is an afterthought. At J. Addison School, it’s a guiding educational principle that shapes confident, well-rounded global citizens.
High academic achievement, good sportsmanship, and extracurricular excellence are the hallmarks of a quality education, but character development is what truly sets J. Addison School apart. Situated in Markham, Ontario, this private institution prioritizes teaching respect, kindness, and empathy to help its students grow into wellrounded individuals and confident global citizens.
The result? Graduates who are not only prepared for university but for all life’s challenges, ready to contribute to their communities with compassion and self-assurance.
Character at the core
Even during the admissions process, character takes precedence over academic records. “We look at character first, then academics, and then the rest of the profile,” says Principal Daniel Cooper. “When we hire teachers, we want individuals who are genuine, kind, and respectful. That’s as important to us as years of experience.”
The emphasis on character development begins as soon as students arrive in the morning, when they are greeted warmly by teachers and other staff to set a positive tone for the day. This focus on respect and connection extends into the classroom, where collaborative projects
Veronica Stephenson
and group work help build teamwork and communication skills.
“It’s so important for students to feel confident using their voices,” says Principal Daniel Cooper. “Even our international students, some of whom are just learning English, feel safe making mistakes and expressing themselves. That confidence carries over into everything they do.”
Elementary excellence: building a love of learning
Instilling a lifelong love of learning is the pillar of J. Addison’s elementary school program. Teachers make lessons engaging, interactive, and tailored to each student’s strengths— an effort made possible by small class sizes and a 1:15 teacher-to-student ratio. Meanwhile, creative projects integrate art, music, and science to make lessons dynamic and enjoyable. Opportunities to showcase their work and develop public speaking skills are woven into every aspect of the program. And when parents get curious about their children’s progress, events like Curriculum Night invite the whole family to experience students’ achievements firsthand.
At these engaging events, students proudly showcase their projects in science, art, music, and language. During a recent Curriculum Night, J. Addison’s youngest students delighted the audience with a play performed in French, a language introduced as early as Grade 1. These moments not only celebrate students’ achievements but also nurture essential skills in communication and self-expression.
“Learning should be fun,” says Cooper. “When students are engaged and excited by what they’re doing, they develop a lifelong love of learning —
and that starts in elementary school.”
High school: preparing for life beyond academics In high school, preparation for post-secondary success is an import ant part of the picture, but the program goes well beyond academics. “Our goal is to build successful individuals who know how to face and overcome future challenges,” says Cooper. This holistic approach encourages students to balance academics with extracurricular pursuits as they build strong relationships with peers and teachers.
J. Addison’s elite basketball program — designed to nurture student-athletes’ talents and help them reach their full potential—is a shining example of these principles, fostering values that extend far beyond the court. With highly experienced coaches, a supportive school environment, and the opportunity to compete in tournaments across Canada and the U.S., players cultivate essential qualities like teamwork, leadership, and resilience. “We’re proud that it not only develops athletic talent but also reinforces the habits and mindset students need for lifelong success,” says Cooper.
By blending rigorous academics with character-building opportunities, J. Addison prepares students to thrive in all aspects of their lives — academically, socially, and emotionally.
Discover how J. Addison School nurtures character, a love of learning, and lifelong success in all students’ pursuits. Book a tour today and see the difference firsthand. This was sponsored by J. Addison School
Helen Walsh
This article was sponsored by Kingsway College School
