The Queen's Journal, Volume 152, Issue 17

Queen’s Principal Emeritus

Thomas R. Williams passes away at 85

Patrick Deane speaks to Williams’ personality and strong leadership

academia, Deane spoke to William’s passion for the University as a whole, and the students who inhabit it.

“He was very community centred and obviously very centred on the students as a body and their wellbeing. He was a great lover of sports and all activities of that sort, and I know he turned out to support University teams with great regularity and had a great passion for student success on the sports field as much as in the classroom,” Deane said.

This student-centric perception of Williams was echoed by Emma Waverman, ArtSci ’92 and current Radio Producer at CBC in an interview with The Journal Waverman explained what her interactions with him were like during her time as the Senior News Editor at The Journal

J onathan R eilly Assistant

position of dean of the Faculty of Education until 1986. He was a professor in the Faculty of Education and in the School of Policy Studies and served as VicePrincipal (operations) and as VicePrincipal (institutional relations).

News Editor

Known affectionately as “Dr. Tom” and “Party Tom” by students, Dr. Thomas Williams’ decades of service combined a focus of academic excellence and community-centred leadership.

Williams, a member of the Queen’s community for 30 years, passed away in Kingston on Jan. 3 at the age of 85. He held various positions at the University during his tenure, wearing many hats—Professor, Dean, VicePrincipal, and ultimately ascended as the University’s 19th Principal and Vice Chancellor from 2008-09. Williams began his journey at Queen’s in 1977, taking on the

Following a principalship vacancy in 2008, Williams came out of retirement and served 16 months as Principal and ViceChancellor. During his time in office, he was credited with securing funding for a new medical school building and the funding for the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts.

In an interview with The Journal, Principal and Vice-Chancellor

Patrick Deane outlined what he thought allowed Williams to be so proficient in his various roles at Queen’s.

“I would say it seems that he was very successful in all of those roles, perhaps because of a very powerful combination of personal

characteristics. I think he was a deeply trusted man. I think he was a person of great integrity, and he was very clear about his priorities as a University leader. He was very clear about the importance of students and the academic vision as a whole,” Deane said in an interview with The Journal Deane added that in the role of Principal, tough decisions often end up on your desk, and he admired William’s ability to make decisions that were in the best interest of the University.

“I think when you hold the position of Principal, you’re always making decisions that, in your opinion, are the best for the institution. Sometimes those decisions aren’t easy to make, and they may even run counter to what you might feel personally, but you still have to make them, and I think in working with Tom I saw that in operation,” Deane said.

Aside from his passion for

“Despite differences in position, age, and knowledge, he took me and my questions and my role as a student journalist seriously, he wasn’t dismissive,” Waverman said in an interview with The Journal

She later explained how her experience was impactful in ensuring that she would continue to question those in power moving forward in her career.

“I think that because he treated me fairly, I wasn’t scared to approach people in power. If those interactions had been different, maybe that would have changed my approaches,” Waverman said.

In an interview with The Journal, another former Senior News Editor at The Journal and current Toronto Star reporter Kristin Rushowy spoke to Williams’ relationship with students, adding that the nicknames “Dr. Tom” and “Party Tom” were terms of endearment between students and Williams.

Rushowy also explained how her daughter and Williams’ granddaughter coincidentally ended up becoming close friends

I’ll

while attending Queen’s and this reconnected the two.

“When my daughter would be at his place and his daughter’s place for holiday meals, because they’re all in Kingston, he was always sending me e-mails with photos that he’d taken of the girls. It was very sweet, and I really appreciated that,” Rushowy said.

Williams was also responsible for establishing, and was a donor to, the Tom Williams Award in Policy Studies. This award provides financial assistance to those in the Master of Public Administration Program. Instead of sending flowers, the family asks that people donate to the fund.

The campus flags will be lowered in honour of Williams over the weekend of January 25. A memorial will take place on Jan. 25 at 11 a.m. at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts to commemorate his life.

Thomas Williams passed away on Jan. 3.

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

Lynne-Marie Postovit appointed Vice-Provost (Academic Affairs)

Lynne-Marie Postovit comes full circle at Queen’s

Lauren Nicol Assistant News Editor

Lynne-Marie Postovit commits to bettering research at Queen’s.

Postovit began her five-year term as vice-provost (academic affairs) at Queen’s on Jan. 1, transitioning from being head of the Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences. Her new role focuses on enhancing the University’s research output by setting standards and managing initiatives.

According to the Gazette, Vice-Provost (Academic Affairs), Postovit will drive the University’s academic development. Her responsibilities include overseeing academic appointments, tenure, and promotion processes while emphasizing research standards and equity, diversity, and inclusion

The creation of this position coincides with the retirement of Deputy Provost Teri Shearer at the end of 2024. Responsibilities previously held by Shearer, including equityrelated initiatives, will be partially transitioned to Postovit.

Postovit’s connection to the University dates back to her PhD studies in anatomy and cell biology. After leaving Kingston to pursue additional studies, she returned to Queen’s in 2019

as head of the Department of Biomedical and Molecular

“How can we do [research] better? I think it will benefit

Sciences, which was driven by a sense of respect for the institution and a need to give back to the community that fostered her academic growth. In an interview with The Journal, she credited the role as head of the department preparing her for her current position through its focus on balancing research, education, and management responsibilities.

“There’s sort of a sense of independence and creativity and a little bit of a zeal that is unique to Queen’s, and I think that’s [the independence and creativity is] really special,”

Postovit said in an interview with The Journal.

One of her main priorities during her term is enhancing and expanding the research system at Queen’s. She emphasized the importance of improving research practices not only for the benefit of scholars but also for students and society at large.

our scholars, and it’ll also massively benefit our students and society,” Postovit said. “This is a wonderful, privileged place, and we’re all here to help make the world a better place.”

When asked about addressing challenges, Postovit highlighted the importance of finding common ground to promote unity. She emphasized that her approach, especially in the early stages of her tenure, will focus on engaging with and listening to students and staff. This commitment aims to identify and understand necessary changes while preserving positive aspects of of Queen’s research, such as the high level of research opportunities available to students.

Continued online at www.queenjournal.ca

Community frustrated after the City doubles the Cost of garbage bag tags

City leaves residents in the dark on garbage tag price hike

Lauren Nicol Assistant News Editor

The City of Kingston apologizes to citizens following public frustration over the garbage bag tag price increase.

At its Dec. 3 meeting, City Council unanimously approved doubling the cost of garbage bag tags from $2 to $4 each. The tags, which are required for any additional garbage bags exceeding the weekly limit of one untagged bag or container per household, can be purchased online in packs of four for $16.

The price hike sparked backlash in the City of Kingston Facebook group, where residents claimed the increase would lead to more illegal dumping. Many also expressed frustration over the lack of advanced notice or communication about the decision.

“We know the increase surprised many people, and we apologize for not sharing this information sooner,” the City of Kingston said in a news release.

According to the City, the cost to deliver garbage has increased by $700,000 from 2021, with landfill costs and fuel surcharges increasing. The new tag price is intended to cover a portion of this shortfall.

“The cost of garbage collection service has risen to a budgeted amount of $5.5 million for 2025. Actual landfill costs and fuel surcharges have increased from $93 per metric tonne in 2021 to $104 in 2024,” the City of Kingston said in a statement to The Journal

The city stated bag tags that were previously bought for a lower price before 2025 will continue to be valid even with the change.

Despite the explanation regarding the decision, some students are upset at the increase.

“I understand that the City would need to increase the cost of garbage bag tags but it’s frustrating that it was done with little to no notice or consultation with the citizens,” Owen Massey, ArtSci ’27 said in an interview with The Journal. “So many students are already on budgets, and this is just one more thing that’s getting more expensive.”

Residents have also taken a stand against the increased costs.

“No reasonable advance notice was made to the public of a 100 per cent increase in the purchase of [garbage] bag tags […] I heard rumours about a week before the effective increase in price date on a Kingston Facebook group but when I went to check on the City’s website, there was nothing indicated about a bag tag price increase,” Sarah Bertelsen, Sydenham District resident wrote in a statement to The Journal

Bertelsen said when the City announced they would be increasing the cost of bag tags, she found the link to buy the tags from the City was shut down and there was no way to buy them online leaving residents scrambling to find them in-person, with some individuals having to go store-to-store.

“The bag tag cost increase will affect young families and seniors likely more than anyone, whose income is typically lower,” Bertelsen said. “Families with diapers and children living at home, seniors who require assistance with things like cat litter disposal and the lifting of bags and recycling may not be able to have help and may be forced to hire assistance with garbage and recycling.”

While Bertelsen acknowledged that some increase was expected in the new year, she criticized the lack of notice and the decision to double the cost.

Official naming of Indigenous gathering space recognizes long-standing contributions of Kanonhsyonne

Extending the rafters and honouring Kanonhsyonne’s (Janice Hill) legacy at Queen’s

Aya

Alhasany Assistant News Editor

The outdoor Indigenous gathering space at the south-east end of Tindall Field recognizes Kanonhsyonne (Janice Hill), BEd ’99, and her years of contributions to the Queen’s Indigenous community after her retirement from the position of Associate Vice-Principal (Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation) in March 2024.

Opened in September 2023 as a teaching and learning hub

for Queen’s students and faculty to engage with Indigenous knowledge, the space will be officially renamed Tsi Yakwanastahentéha, which translated to “the place where we extend the rafters.”

The new name honours the work of Kanonhsyonne in the Queen’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission Task Force (QTRCTF), specifically noting the title of the task force’s final report, “Yakwanastahentéha | Aankenjigemi | Extending the Rafters.”

Released in 2017, the final report contains 25 recommendations for institutional change which include strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, promoting a deeper understanding of Indigenous histories, knowledge systems, and experiences, and creating a campus that values and

reflects Indigenous histories and perspectives.

In an interview with The Journal , Kanonhsyonne elaborated on the importance of the space and the overall need for those representing Indigenous students.

“I think it was a very important step,” she said. “Indigenous students are going to go where they see themselves represented, and up to this point, there hasn’t really been a large physical representation of Indigenous peoples on the campus.”

“I feel very honoured by this naming. I was a little surprised by it, but I’m happy to see that the work that I did has been recognized and acknowledged,” Kanonhsyonne said. “I extend my gratitude, respect, and my sincere, humble thanks for this honor that’s being bestowed upon me.”

She noted the significance of

“extending the rafters,” a concept rooted in the Haudenosaunee tradition of adding rafters to longhouses to welcome more people. She hopes this tradition will inspire Queen’s to strengthen its connections with the Indigenous community.

When asked about her biggest takeaway from her time and contributions to Queen’s, Kanonhsyonne emphasized the importance of building relationships especially those between the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

“One of the things that was most important to me was I felt like, as a University, Queen’s is responsible for seeing that every student that passes through leaves with some understanding of that historical relationship of the place of Indigenous people in this country and beyond.”

Kanonhsyonne, a member of the Turtle Clan from the

Mohawk Nation at Tyendinaga, has contributed to the University’s relationship with Indigenization and reconciliation for almost 30 years as co-director of the Indigenous Teacher Education Program, director of the Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre, and as member of the QTRCTF.

“This honour celebrates her profound impact but will also inspire future generations at Queen’s. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the University and extend far beyond campus borders,” President and Chief Executive Officer of Bader Philanthropies Inc. Daniel Bader, LLD ’21 told the Gazette. Bader Philanthropies Inc. played a critical role in funding the creation of the space. According to the Gazette, a celebration ceremony for the naming will take place this spring.

SUPPLIED BY QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

Postovit began her term on Jan. 1.

Dr. Stephen Vanner appointed interim Dean of Health Sciences

Three-time Queen’s graduate assumes three on-campus roles

Aya Alhasany Assistant News Editor

Dr. Stephen Vanner was appointed to three interim roles at Queen’s University on Dec. 1.

Following Dr. Jane Philpott’s exit from the University to lead Ontario’s new primary care action team, three-time Queen’s graduate Dr. Vanner is provisionally taking over her prior roles as the interim Dean of Health Sciences, Director of the School of Medicine and CEO of the Southeastern Ontario AcademicMedical Organization (SEAMO).

In an interview with The Journal, Dr. Vanner credited the Queen’s community for his return to campus throughout his career.

“It’s a wonderful place to work in terms of the colleagues you get to share your work with—you don’t get that in every place,” Dr. Vanner said.

He emphasized the importance of being challenged during one’s university journey, a belief he holds true both in the past and the present. Reflecting on his own time as a student, he recalled being told, “If you don’t

find your time at Queen’s challenging, then you’ve missed its purpose.”

“We don’t want to do that in a punitive or negative way. But it’s good to be challenged, to grow, and fully realize the person that you can be,” he said.

After first arriving on campus in 1974, Dr. Vanner graduated from Queen’s with an undergraduate degree in life sciences, after which he returned to campus to receive a joint MD and MSc in neurophysiology in 1980.

Later, Dr. Vanner completed a fellowship in internal medicine and gastroenterology at Queen’s. After a postdoctoral fellowship in Oregon at the Vollum Institute where he specialized in electrophysiological techniques to study the nervous system, Dr. Vanner returned as a member of the Queen’s faculty in the Department of Medicine.

Dr. Vanner currently specializes in pain signaling in the gastrointestinal tract in his positions as director of clinical research at Kingston Health Sciences Centre and Director of Queen’s gastrointestinal diseases research unit while serving as a professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences.

When asked how he has balanced responsibilities over the years, Dr. Vanner cited the importance of passion for one’s work, in tandem with efficiency and support.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have a

wonderful team of people around me who allow me to do all of this, and without them it certainly wouldn’t be possible,” Dr. Vanner explained.

During his time as interim Dean of Health Sciences, Dr. Vanner primarily aims to improve the faculty’s research opportunities.

“We want to look for opportunities to incentivize researchers and give them the tools to be as successful as they possibly can,” he elaborated, further noting the recent recruitment of researchers and clinician scientists to Queen’s.

He emphasized the importance of clinical impact in the University’s research.

“There’re different metrics you can use in terms of how many publications we have or the quality of the journals, but we also want to be translating those findings into improving healthcare,” Dr. Vanner said. “I’m optimistic for the future, and I see lots of opportunities for our students here and faculty. I’m just excited about trying to help people realize those.”

Dr. Vanner advises current and incoming Queen’s students to follow their passions and discover what excites them—something he hopes to help inspire.

A permanent Dean of Health Sciences will be appointed on July 1.

students mark five-year anniversary of amir moradi’s death during Ps752

Iranian community comes together to mourn death of former Queen’s student

Aya Alhasany & Lauren Nicol Assistant News Editors

Five years after his passing, students gathered to honour the life of Amir Moradi one of the victims of Flight PS752.

The Iranian Association of Queen’s University (IAQU) gathered students and community members on Jan. 8 to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Moradi’s death. The gathering took place behind Douglas Library, where roses were distributed to be placed by a tree the University dedicated in his memory. Although there’s been a memorial for Moradi since 2020, the memorial has been held at “Amir’s Tree,” located behind the library, since 2023.

Moradi, a third-year Queen’s student at the time of his passing, was among the 175 people killed when Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 (PS752) was mistakenly targeted and shot down in Iran on Jan. 8, 2020. At the time, Moradi was travelling back from visiting his family.

In an interview with The Journal, IAQU co-founders Niki Ehsan, ArtSci ’25, and Eileen Danaee, HealthSci ’25

discussed the significance of Flight PS752 to the Iranian community at Queen’s and globally, emphasizing that the tragedy could have affected any other student.

“Any of us could have been a student like Amir who was visiting their family in Iran for the holidays,” Ehsan said. “We want to see justice for the families of the victims of flight PS752. We think Canada as a state could do a lot more to seek justice for the Canadians that were victim to this flight.”

Danaee stated the importance of creating spaces for Iranian students at Queen’s, amplifying and supporting environments where Iranian Canadians and students in Kingston feel welcome, supported, and at home.

“By memorializing Amir Moradi, we hope to send a message that we do still remember, and we will not forget what the regime has done,” Danaee said.

Intrested in contributing to The Journal?

E-mail joural_editors@ams.queensu.ca for more information.

No experience is neccessay.

Residence incident raises concerns about campus safety and inclusion

Jewish student speaks out about safety and support after alleged antisemitic incident

Meghrig Milkon Senior News Editor

A student at Queen’s University is calling for greater institutional action after encountering an act they perceive as antisemitic in their residence earlier in December.

Upon returning to their residence, the first-year student discovered the phrase “Free Palestine” written on their blank nameplate—a space typically reserved for personal pronouns and fun facts—outside their dorm room in Leggett Hall.

“It’s not just the ‘Free Palestine’ message, it’s the fact that someone made the connection between the Mezuzah on my door and chose to target my room,

specifically because I’m a Jewish student. I felt like it was a very targeted attack,” the student said in an interview with The Journal.

A Mezuzah is a small box mounted on the right doorpost of Jewish homes. The box contains a scroll with Torah verses and holds spiritual and cultural significance.

The student expressed significant safety concerns, highlighting the fear that arose from the anonymity of the act.

“It’s threatening because, you know, it’s the fear that I know where you are, but I’m not going to show my face. I know where you live, and I could always come to your door. That’s really where the fear stems from,” the student said.

Frustrations extended to what the student perceived as inadequate long-term solutions and the limitations of existing security measures in residences. They mentioned that, despite the installation of cameras in Leggett Hall

following a similar incident last year—in which a Mezuzah was removed and damaged from the doorpost of a Jewish student—the measures appeared inadequate in preventing further acts of antisemitism or ensuring accountability.

This incident is one of many on campus targeting both Jewish and Palestinian students, particularly following the events of Oct. 7.

Upon discovering the written message, the student reached out to Campus Security and sought support from Hillel Queen’s, a Jewish campus organization. They also met with Residence Life staff to discuss the incident and the broader issue of campus safety.

In a statement to The Journal, Residence Life executive Allen Wu reaffirmed the department’s commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students. “We condemn all forms of hate, including

antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments. We remain committed to combating discrimination through education and advocacy,” Wu said.

The University echoed this sentiment, emphasizing its commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. “All reports are promptly reviewed, and where possible, evidence is gathered to identify individuals responsible. A range of sanctions may be applied to those found responsible, including removal from residence,” the University stated in a response to The Journal.

In the wake of the incident, the student has found solace in being part of the Jewish community on campus, where they feel safe and respected. They believe that being in such an environment has been crucial in helping them navigate this difficult time.

The student explained that growing up, they lived in

a Jewish community bubble, surrounded by Jewish schools, camps, and activities, with little exposure to the outside world. While their experience at Queen’s has been mostly positive, this incident made them feel compelled to retreat into that bubble.

“When something happens to me and other Jewish people, we kind of assimilate to ourselves, but then when we go and spread out go out, we get screwed,” the student said in an interview with The Journal.

The student remains hopeful that their story will prompt the University to take more decisive action. “This isn’t what I expected when I moved into residence. Queen’s n eeds to create a community where everyone feels safe and supported and that means addressing antisemitism head-on.”

Unconventionalpathsinacademia,from gapsemesterstogaplives

‘Takingthattimeoffwasanecessarystep’

More and more students are taking gap years before pursuing post-secondary A K

Features Editor

Thevastmajorityofstudentsenter theirfirstyearofuniversity bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, straight out of high school. However, a growing number of studentsarechoosingtodelaytheir post-secondary education, taking timeofffromschooltowork,travel, andexplorenewopportunities.

Despite gap years growing in popularity, they remain a controversialtopicamongparents andstudentsalike.

***

Eli Hiatt, ArtSci ’27, was uncertain about whether to take agapyearafterhighschool.Hiatt applied to universities in Grade 12 with her peers and received early admission to theUniversity ofVictoriain2022.Despitebeing acceptedintotheprogramofher choice,Hiattfeltdreadratherthan excitement when she thought about starting university right afterhighschool.

“Ireallyjustdidn’tfeelinclinedto jumpbackintoaschoolexperience, and I thought I needed a year to decompress,” Hiatt said in an interviewwithTheJournal

Hiatt decided to defer her acceptance to the University of Victoria and applied to six more universities, including Queen’s, during her gap year. After her gapyear, Hiatt decided to attend BaderCollege,Queen’sUniversity’s internationalcampus,in2023.

“Ultimatelyitworkedoutreally well,” Hiatt said. “I changed the school I wanted to go to, and I foundtheBaderCollegeprogram duringthattime,soIwouldsayit endedonapositivenote.”

In addition to providing Hiatt withamuch-neededbreak,taking agapyearallowedhertoreflecton hergoalsforthefuture.

“In high school, I was very in my own head and felt aimless a lot,”Hiattsaid.“Aftermygapyear, Irealizedthattherearesomany options,andIdon’tneedtoknow what I’m doing yet and when I madeittouniversity,Ihadroom toexplore.”

Hiatt,likemanystudents,was uncertain about her long-term careergoalswhensheenteredher first year of university. However,

taking a gap year allowed her to further narrow down her options before beginning her post-secondaryeducation.

“Itgavemetimetolearnmore, and I ultimately changed my majorfromlinguisticstocomputer science,althoughthatdidn’tstick for long because I changed my majoragainafterthat,”Hiattsaid.

During the first few months ofhergapyear,Hiatt,who’snow a geography major, travelled to PortugalandSpaintospendtime with family friends and immerse herselfinthelocalcultures.

“Itwasgreattobeinadifferent place,unburdenedbyschoolwork,” Hiattsaid.

Afterreturningfromhertravels, Hiattworkedatamarketresearch firmandlatergotajobatanice creamshop,whereshewasable tosavemoneyforschoolandmeet someofherclosestfriends.

A common concern regarding gapyearsisthattheywillbecome indefinite. For Hiatt, however, takingagapyearfurthermotivated hertoattenduniversity.

“The gap year was definitely positiveforme,”Hiattsaid.“Ithink formanypeople,itmaynotbethe rightdecision,butIwasdefinitely inclined to go back to school. I just didn’t want to do that to myselfimmediately.”

Startinguniversityayearlater thanmostundergraduatestudents alsohelpedHiattnavigatethemajor lifechangesthatoccurinfirstyear.

“I noticed when I made it to universitythatIfelttobeonthe morematureendofthespectrum,” Hiattsaid.“Ithinkitreallyhelped givemeperspective.Ifeltprepared.”

“Had I not taken a gap year, I think my life would be on a different trajectory,” Hiatt said. “I probablywouldbeinmythirdyear of a major that suits me a little bitless,andIdon’tthinkIwould havehadtimetoreallyrelaxand reconsidereverything.”

***

Omar Sharaf, CompSci ’27, had always planned to pursue a university education right after high school. As his Grade 12 graduation drew nearer, however, herealizedthathehadonemajor milestone left to reach before university would be right for him—Sharafwantedtomoveout.

innow,whatifyounevergetin?”

Sharaf believes the stigma surrounding gap years and semesters is prominent in many marginalizedcommunities.

“For other marginalized groups, notjustimmigrants,there’salways a deep anxiety that you’re not going to belong,” Sharaf said. “If you build some level of prestigiousness and wealth and respectability,maybeyouwon’tbe soothered.”

Marginalized individuals have been framed as “the other” throughout history, looked down upon by dominant groups including white Canadians. Although this form of discrimination is less overt today, this“usvs.them”framingcontinues to alienate people of colour, religious and sexual minorities, and Indigenous people from mainstream society, driving this desiretobelong.

shifteddrastically.

“My goals have shifted from lookingforsomebigachievement or big prize at the end—like getting a degree at the end of university—tojustfiguringouthow toenjoylife,”Williamsonsaid.

Williamson continues to work at her local ice rink and is now pursuingaSmartServequalification tobecomeabartender.She’shappy withherlifestylebutwarnsit’seasy tolosetrackofyourgoalswithout thestructurethatschoolprovides.

“It’s sort of a slippery slope becauseonceyou’redoingnothing forawhile,it’shardtodoanything,” Williamsonsaid.“Findsomesortof passionproject.”

***

RenChalykoff,ArtSci’27,decided to space out her post-secondary educationforhermentalhealth.

Growing up in a large family withtwoyoungersiblings,Sharaf’s homeenvironmentwasdisruptive tosaytheleast.Sharafknewthis wouldinterferewithhiseducation, buthisparentswereinsistenthe stayhomeforuniversity.

“[IfIhadstayedhome],Iwould have been slightly miserable for all four years,” Sharaf said in an interviewwithTheJournal

His only option, he believed, was to force his parents into an ultimatum: he would either study at a university outside his hometownOttawa,orhewouldn’t gotouniversityatall.Toshowhis parents he was serious, Sharaf didn’tapplytoanypost-secondary programsduringGrade12,taking agapsemestertosaveupforhis inevitablemove.

“Taking that time off was a necessary step in moving out,” Sharafsaid.“Ottawawasnotagreat environment for me, high school wasn’tfun,andhomewasn’tvery conducivetoeducation.”

Duringhisgapsemester,Sharaf worked at a restaurant and took online computer science courses tostaybusyandstartearninghis tuition. The semester itself was not majorly transformative for Sharaf, but it set the stage for a fulfilling university experience awayfromhome.

However,navigatinghisfamily’s reactionstohisdecisiontotakea gapsemesterwasnoeasyfeat.

“[If you take a gap semester], It’slikeyou’renotonthetrackto beingwhoyou’resupposedtobe, thereforeitisn’tproductive,”Sharaf said.“Ifyou’renotdoingthething you’resupposedtodo,thenwhat areyoudoing?”

Sharaf’s parents feared his decision to take a gap would jeopardize his future. Having moved to Canada partly for the educational opportunities, they placed high stakes on Sharaf’s academic career. Sharaf was the oldest of his siblings and would bethefirsttoreaptheeducational benefitsofhisfamily’smigrationto Canada.So,whenSharafdeviated from the conventional academic path,hisparentsgrewconcerned thathisgapsemesterwould“bethe endofhim.”

“Tothem,there’snoguarantees inlife,”Sharafsaid.“Ifyoudon’tget

According to Sharaf, pursuing an education at a reputable post-secondary institution is widelyregardedasthekeytothis prestige,wealth,andrespectability by both immigrants and non-immigrants alike. Straying from the conventional academic pathisriskingavitalopportunity tobelong.

With time, Sharaf’s parents came to terms with his decision totakeasemesteroffandattend university away from home. Sharaf’s unconventionalacademic journeyultimatelyallowedhimto findthesenseofbelongingthathe lackedinOttawa.

“I would definitely say that I found myself in university,” Sharafsaid.

***

Gapyearscanserveasvaluable opportunities for students to explore their interests and reconsidertheirplansforthefuture. Forsome,thatentailsapplyingto different programs or changing majors.Forothers,thatmayinvolve therealizationthatpost-secondary education isn’t the right path forthem.

Shaun Williamson graduated highschoolin 2023anddecided totakeagapyearbeforeapplying to post-secondary institutions. When the time came to submit applications, Williamson realized that she really had no desire to go to college or university. She enjoyedworkingpart-timeather localicerinkandcouldn’timagine herself in a career that required a traditional post-secondary education.

“Getting a degree just for the sake of getting a degree doesn’t make sense for me,” Williamson said in an interview with The Journal. “If I had just tried to go to post-secondary [school] right away, that would have been a baddecision.”

However, Williamson didn’t alwaysfeelthisway.

“First going into high school, I wassomeonewhototallythought Iknew exactlywhat Iwantedto do,”Willamsonsaid.“Iwasreally interested in taking business coursesbecauseIwantedtostart somekindofsmallbusiness.”

After taking an introductory business course in Grade 9, Williamson found that she didn’t enjoy the discipline. Then, COVID-19hit,andonlinelearning made it difficult for Williamson to remain engaged in her other classes. She struggled with mental health issues throughout high school, and her life goals

Chalykoff initially planned her universityeducationthesameway as many undergraduate students. In a given year, she would study duringthefallandwintersemesters andtakethesummersemesteroff.

After experiencing serious mental health issues during the second semesterofher firstyear, Chalykoff realized this typical structure would not work for her. Midway through her second semester,Chalykoffdecidedtotake timeofffromschooltoimproveher overallwell-being.

“Idecidedtotaketimeoffjustto regroupandhopefullygetbetterto apointwhereIcouldgotoschool fulltimeagain,”Chalykoffsaidinan interviewwithTheJournal

Thiswasn’taneasydecisionfor Chalykofftomake,butsheremains optimisticabouttheremainderof herpost-secondaryeducation.

“Itkindofmademefeelalittlebit sidetracked,likeIwishIdidn’tneed totaketimeoff,”Chalykoffsaid.“I stillthinkmyfuturelooksrelatively normal, it’s just gonna take me moretimetogettherethanIthink itwillformostpeople.”

During her time off, Chalykoff has been able to prioritize her mentalhealth,spendingtimewith family, doing yoga, and searching forajobtokeephermindactive.

“I think I really needed the time just for myself,” Chalykoff said.“Withoutit,Idon’tknowifI’d be able to actually complete the school year properly and do my best. Taking that time has reallyhelped.”

Spacingouthereducationhas alsoenabled Chalykofftoexplore differentcareerpathways.Chalykoff enteredQueen’splanningtomajor in biology, but after reflecting on her interests and aspirations duringhertimeawayfromschool, sherealizedthiswasnottheright choiceforher.

“IthinkIneededtotakesome time tounderstandmyselfbetter,” Chalykoff said. “I went to loads ofartmuseums,andIthinkthat reallyfosteredaloveforart.Idon’t think I would have been able to do that ifI were taking a full courseload.”

Chalykoff is now pursuing a majorinarthistoryandhascome to terms with her somewhat unconventionalacademicjourney.

“I wanted to graduate in the typical four years, but I realize now that that’s a little ridiculous and everyone needs to have theirownjourneythroughschool,” Chalykoff said. “I think that the standard four years shouldn’t be a pressure put on anybody, and everyone should just take the amountoftimethattheyneedin ordertograduate.”

GRAPHICBYNATALIEVIEBROCK

Meta is ditching moderation and indulging in free speech.

The tech company’s founder Mark Zuckerberg announced plans to “dramatically reduce censorship” across its three social media platforms, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, starting in the United States. Instead of using a dedicated fact-checking team, Meta will implement X’s Community Notes system, allowing users to moderate posts collectively.

Meta’s new policy is a slap in the face to users

Community Notes is a user-centred system, where eligible contributors leave contextual notes to any posts they find potentially misleading. When posts are reviewed by a certain number of different viewpoints, their notes become public to the rest of users.

Zuckerberg cites the political bias of fact-checkers as the main reason for removing them, crediting them for destroying the trust of their users for becoming tools of censorship. Yet, this reasoning falls short, as fact-checkers rely only on facts, not bias. Posts espousing anything less than facts would be considered a lie.

With Donald Trump’s nearing return to the White House on Jan. 20, it’s clear Meta’s motivations to maximize free speech aren’t really in service of the platform’s users, but in preparation for upcoming administrative changes and the people they’ll ultimately serve.

Meta isn’t the only company to drastically transform its policies in light of Trump’s presidency; we’re amidst a greater trend of corporations bending to the will of the former President’s conservative values to maintain favourable relations with him and his policies.

This connection signals the growing relationship between tech giants and political leaders—one we’ve already seen with Elon Musk and

Natalie Viebrock Postscript Editor

When approached thoughtfully, New Year’s resolutions don’t just have to be lofty goals; they can be powerful tools for personal growth.

Every January, social media and post-holiday catch-up conversations buzz with a familiar refrain: New Year’s resolutions are pointless.

The critique usually boils down to the belief that resolutions are momentary fads, with a staggering 80 per cent destined to fade by February, leaving us feeling guilty and disappointed. While it’s true some resolutions are abandoned, dismissing the entire practice as superficial misses the point of setting intentions.

There’s something undeniably symbolic about the New Year. Psychologists refer to this feeling as the “fresh start effect”—a phenomenon where temporal landmarks like Jan. 1 provide a mental reset. These moments detach us from failures of last year—like drunken New Year’s Eve mistakes—and grant us a chance to try again with renewed vigour, even if accompanied

X. Given their investing potential in political outcomes and regulations, we’re witnessing the sheer power tech companies have at their disposal to satisfy the majority, while sacrificing the wellbeing of marginalized groups.

Even the word “censorship” reveals the political undertones behind social media platforms. Stating that eliminating fact-checkers removes censorship, suggests the belief that the opposite—that fact-checkers are a barrier to free speech—is true. Fact-checking, at its core, is a mechanism to broaden the knowledge around a point. Adding nuance to statements isn’t the same as flagging something for not being factual. When making a change as consequential as removing all discursive guardrails, the impacts of that decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. Seen through Zuckerberg’s eyes, this situation is nothing but a trade-off between granting users unrestricted access to share their experiences, while catching less “bad stuff.” The danger lies in underestimating just how “bad” stuff can get when left for Internet users to moderate.

Harmful content is censored for a reason, so when it becomes permitted, the spread of misinformation and hate speech are inevitable across Meta’s platforms. Existing sentiments toward targeted communities will only inflate into cyberbullying and harassment. Left unchecked, this freedom gives way for dominant ideologies to push minority voices to other channels, turning Facebook and Instagram feeds into extremist echo-chambers.

As demonstrated by social media’s catalyzation of anti-feminist hate speech among young users, it’s evident how rapidly online discourses begin reaping offline effects. Even if users can hold each other accountable through Community Notes, it doesn’t mean they can do so to a degree that’ll ensure everyone’s safety. It’s no longer a matter of what can and can’t be said, but a concern for whether people will ever face repercussions for things they’ll inevitably say.

While countries like Canada and those in the EU and UK, whose online safety acts clash with these changes, have yet to follow in America’s footsteps, the effects will soon permeate beyond the US. Meta’s censorship lift is nothing but a recipe for misinformation, hate speech, and a frightening political landscape that’s already taking shape.

—Journal Editorial Board

EDITORIALS

Stop hating on new Year’S reSolutionS

by a lingering hangover.

Rather than being restrictive checklists or clichés, resolutions offer an opportunity to reflect on the past and envision a more intentional future. They don’t have to revolve around quantitative measures like running five kilometres a week or reading 45 books. Instead, resolutions can be qualitatively focused on values, emotions, and experiences that enrich our lives and the lives of others.

Resolutions are, at their core, about setting intentions. Research in psychology underscores the importance of goal-setting in fostering meaningful change. Goals give our efforts direction and provide a sense of purpose. By defining actionable steps towards those goals—whether big or small—we’re more likely to align daily habits with our broader aspirations.

Take my resolution, for example: this year, I’m committing to “be more creative.” It’s not a checkbox goal with a clear finish line, but rather an ongoing practice I aim to adopt. Whether it’s occasionally picking up a sketchbook or coming up with more inventive excuses to skip class, creativity is the intention I’ve set for myself. And, according to scientific research, by writing down this goal in my 2025 journal, I’m increasing the likelihood of following through on this resolution.

The power of a resolution lies in its ability to signal a fresh start, encouraging us to look forward to growth rather than

dwell on past shortcomings. When we adopt resolutions with this mindset, we acknowledge growth is a journey, not a destination. Even if a resolution evolves or goes unfulfilled, the process of setting it—the hope, reflection, aspiration, and Pinterest-board-creating—is itself valuable.

Resolutions can be an antidote to complacency. They remind us change is possible, even in the face of life’s challenges. By daring to set goals—whether it’s learning a language, calling your mom more frequently, or prioritizing selfcare—we invest belief in our ability to improve and adapt.

If resolutions have become synonymous with failure, then it’s time to redefine them.

Let’s shift the narrative to emphasize intention over perfection and mastery. Instead of focusing on rigid success metrics, we can embrace resolutions as flexible guides that don’t evolve us but evolve with us. Let them be rooted in self-compassion, curiosity, and a genuine desire for growth.

As we usher in the new year, we should reject the cynicism surrounding resolutions and recognize their potential to inspire meaningful change. A resolution isn’t a frivolous trend when it’s a vote of confidence in yourself. And that’s always worth it.

Natalie is a fourth-year Concurrent Education student and The Journal’s Postscript Editor and Graphics Editor.

PHOTO BY NELSON CHEN

ILLUSTRATION BY ELLA THOMAS

Queen's needs to strive for more inclusive and comprehensive solutions for period poverty on campus

Addressing period poverty for genderqueer students starts with creating inclusive environments

When visualizing a menstruating individual, the picture that usually comes to mind is one of a cisgender woman. This restrictive view, however, ignores one important fact: menstruation isn’t limited to cisgender women but is also experienced by genderqueer people, including non-binary and transgender individuals.

However, accessible, secure, and encouraging spaces for all menstruating individuals, irrespective of gender identity, hasn’t been a priority for Queen’s University as a collective campus—students and administration—and must be addressed to promote equality.

The stigma and negative connotations surrounding menstruation as well as other social factors such as race and socioeconomic status, contribute to menstrual inequality and further period poverty, a frequently disregarded problem that has a significant impact on the lives of individuals, especially in educational settings.

The Government of Canada outlines period poverty as a lack of accessibility to menstrual products, sex education, hygiene facilities, waste management, or a combination of these. It’s a serious yet largely neglected topic that disproportionately impacts marginalized communities due to their intersecting identities of being both menstruators and systemically oppressed.

The matter of period poverty doesn’t end with a person’s inability to access sanitary products; it extends to a further emotional, physical, and psychological toll. It contributes to increased absenteeism, decreased mental health, and feelings of shame and isolation, which can impede one’s ability to succeed academically and grow personally.

Period poverty is happening in Canada. One in six Canadian menstruators have been personally impacted by period poverty; this statistic rises to one in four when the individual’s household earns less than $40,000 per year. These statistics suggest the expense of menstruation products, which are necessary for cleanliness and overall good health, puts a large percentage of Canadians under financial strain. This forces people to make tough decisions, such as allocating their few resources to menstrual products or other essentials like food or accommodation.

The Government of Canada’s Menstrual Equity Fund Pilot—a nationwide Canadian pilot initiative with the goal of lowering obstacles to menstrual product availability and sexual and reproductive health education—finds that one in every four Canadians agree that periods are “dirty and unclean” it also finds one in every five believe that menstruation shouldn’t be publicly discussed and that menstrual products should be kept out of sight. These statistics demonstrate the pervasive societal shame associated with menstruation, which can contribute to a damaging concealment culture.

At Queen’s, with over 31,000 full- and part-time students, the issue at hand isn’t hypothetical; it’s happening right now.

Menstruators at Queen’s are experiencing issues such as struggling to manage menstruation in an environment where financial restraints, personal health, and academic obligations all intersect. Although Queen’s has implemented certain initiatives to address this problem, such as offering free menstruation supplies, these efforts have encountered opposition and remain inadequate in addressing the more profound effects of period poverty.

In a 2023 AMS survey, on the topic of increasing access to products, 76 per cent

of almost 500 participating students said they had experienced a circumstance when their ability to function in meetings, classes, athletic events, or social settings was impacted by their access to menstruation supplies.

The same AMS survey also revealed that 87 per cent of students feel it’s “very important” the Queen’s community has easy access to menstrual products; 81 per cent are “very comfortable” hearing people talk about menstruation; and 95 per cent feel the largest barrier to accessing menstrual products is cost.

These statistics, as compared to the aforementioned nationwide statistics, are encouraging and positive, initially displaying a progressive community at Queen’s, one not as stigmatized towards periods as the Canadian demographic. However, evident in a backlash against menstrual equity projects, Queen’s still remains a space where stigma surrounding menstruation can be a contributing factor to period poverty.

In 2020, a poster for the Take1Leave1 initiative—a campaign launched by the AMS in collaboration with Queen’s Period that uses product donations to give students access to sanitary goods—in a gender-neutral washroom on campus, was vandalized. A bin full of free menstrual products was also ripped off the wall in one of the men’s washrooms in the Queen’s Centre and menstrual products were thrown in the trash in the men’s washroom at the JDUC. As a result of such violence and vandalism, the University opted to exclude men’s restrooms in the project.

The vandalism can be credited to the fact that these violent outbursts were perpetrated in spaces typically shielded from menstruation, such as men’s washrooms. These instances highlight the transphobic aspect of period poverty, where marginalized communities—such as the

2SLGBTQIA+—are disproportionately affected due to their intersecting identities as individuals who are both Queer and menstruate. This raises the concern that students may become hesitant to carry out a necessary hygienic task at the expense of being harassed, leading to a multitude of physical and mental health complications, increasing the risk of infections such as urinary tract infection and bacterial vaginosis.

To eliminate negative socio-cultural stigmas associated with menstruation and promote a more accommodating environment, menstrual education must be incorporated into the secondary curriculum for students of all sexes. Increased on-campus tools and activities are also needed to further curb unpleasant acts that may foster a hostile climate, such as damaging posters and product dispensers that promote menstruation.

Dr. Jen Gunter—a well-respected gynecologist—says, in an interview for Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), that universities should be “making sure that for people who have significant menstrual pain issues, for example, very bad cramps or they have endometriosis, have some kind of flexibility with scheduling exams,” and that institutions should survey their students to determine period poverty and inequality. TMU encourages their menstruating students to speak with medical professionals on campus and encourages them to speak to their professor for alternative options if time away from school is needed. Inclusive approaches like these foster a more secure learning and living environment.

A more welcoming and encouraging Queen’s University community can be built by tackling the social and personal stigmas that portray menstruation as dirty or unhygienic, by approaching these problems from an intersectional lens. Taking on not just the viewpoints and concerns of cisgender students but also genderqueer individuals will help to tackle the largely disregarded side of period poverty. This starts by surveying students of all gender identities on their standpoints in period poverty and inequality and ensuring every washroom, regardless of gender, has access to menstrual products.

Ultimately, this strategy will lessen period poverty and stigma on campus. We must enable all students who menstruate to succeed academically and socially without having to struggle with prejudice or exclusion. The lasting stigma associated with menstruation and the continual deficit of adequate assistance emphasizes the pressing need for more inclusive and comprehensive solutions at Queen’s to establish a secure, uplifting, and equitable learning environment for every student.

If Queen’s continues to not provide adequate assistance to students facing menstruation inequity and ignoring the probable health impacts on genderqueer students, period poverty will only persist on campus. We must be a part of the solution and not the problem.

Natasha is a first-year Arts and Science student.

Natasha Moore Contributor

The stigma of mensturation persists for non-cisgender individuals at Queen's.

PHOTO BY NELSON CHEN

Speaking multiple languages can be a buffer against Alzheimer’s

As Alzheimer’s rates rise, languages have the power to save your memory

Oluwamisimi Oluwole Business, Science, & Technology Editor

Imagine delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s by up to five years, simply by speaking a second language. This isn’t just a linguistic advantage—it’s a cognitive one.

Bilingualism has been linked to improved brain health, particularly in delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. This delay, often spanning up to five years, is attributed to a concept called cognitive reserve. Cognitive reserve is the brain’s capacity to adapt and compensate for damage, much like a safety net that protects against cognitive decline.

The National Library of Medicine study shows bilingual individuals exhibit greater cognitive reserve. This protective effect stems from the mental gymnastics of switching between languages, which strengthens neural pathways and enhances executive functions such as memory, problem solving, and multitasking. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It’s the most

common cause of dementia, gradually impairing a person’s ability to perform daily tasks. While treatments exist to manage symptoms, there is currently no cure, making prevention and delay strategies critical in combating its impact.

A study by Coulter and Phillips found people

Bilingualism alters the brain structure by increasing the density of grey matter in areas associated with memory and decision-making. These changes create a buffer against cognitive decline, providing an extra layer of defense as the brain ages.

individuals who learn a second language later in life can experience cognitive advantages. While fluency is not required to reap the benefits, regular practice and usage of the second language is key.

For Queen’s students, the stress of exams, academic workloads,

with Alzheimer’s disease who spoke more than one language had a higher amount of hippocampal volume than their monolingual peers.

Language switching activates the same areas of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s. By exercising these regions regularly, bilingual individuals build resilience against the disease.

Bilingualism also enhances the brain’s plasticity, or its ability to adapt to new challenges. This flexibility is crucial in maintaining cognitive health, as it allows the brain to reroute functions around damaged areas caused by disease.

The benefits of bilingualism are not limited to those who grew up speaking two languages. Even

and adjusting to campus life can strain mental health. Learning a second language may provide unexpected benefits, not only enhancing cognitive abilities, but also offering a mental break from technical or theory-heavy courses.

Language learning aligns with the global nature of many fields of study and offers a competitive edge. Language learning in university,

when cognitive flexibility is at its peak, can maximize these benefits. Queen’s offers a range of language programs and electives. These courses provide students with foundational skills in reading, writing, and conversational fluency, while introducing them to the cultural nuances of each language.

“I’ve found language classes at Queen’s to be a refreshing complement to my science and math courses. They require a different way of thinking, focusing less on memorizing equations and more on understanding how components work together to form sentences. At Queen’s, the immersive teaching style—with small class sizes, oral practice, and professor engagement—creates a supportive and rewarding learning environment where professors know your name by the first class,” said John Bae, ArtSci ’27 in a statement to The Journal.

As Alzheimer’s rates continue to rise globally, remaining the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older, bilingualism offers a compelling avenue for delaying its effects. While it isn’t a cure, the protective effect of speaking multiple languages highlights the importance of cognitive engagement in brain health.

The cortisol correlation: How exercise reduces student stress

Low intensity exercise influences cortisol levels to minimize response to everyday stressors over time

stress, especially in the face to transitioning from a restful break to the relentless expectations of academic life.

In the interest of maximizing academic success, understanding how to optimize the effectiveness of

Jaya Sigurdson Business, Science, & Technology Editor

The start of a new semester is synonymous with overwhelming

exercise as a coping mechanism for stress begins with the foundation of the human stress response: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Among other processes, the HPA axis employs several mechanisms that result in the

release of cortisol, one of the most important steroid hormones in the body that is notably a biomarker for stress.

When cortisol is released in the body, it signals a series of events that affect the body’s metabolism, behaviours and immunity to allow the individual to appropriately experience stress. Naturally, lessening—but not eliminating—the release of cortisol allows for the body to engage in less dramatic responses to stressful events such as academic evaluations.

Yet, stress, cortisol, and HPA axis stimulations are not all bad and are in fact evolutionary necessary for human survival.

Dr. Kate Harkness, professor, head of the Department of Psychology, and cross-appointed professor of the Department of Psychiatry noted the importance of the human stress response.

“If we didn’t have an HPA axis, if we didn’t have cortisol, we would have died out as a species a long time ago,” Harkness said in an interview with The Journal.

While there isn’t a secret

formula to magically eliminating overwhelming stress, being conscious of factors within your control, such as establishing workout routine, is a great starting point for developing healthy habits and understanding how to best take advantage of the body’s built-in coping mechanisms.

Cortisol doesn’t distinguish between the two primary types of stress: acute stress and chronic stress. This means that cortisol itself is being released during both. During acute stress, cortisol spikes then returns toward a baseline level, such as when engaging in exercise. However, with chronic stress the release of cortisol is constant, and the high levels of stress causes more harm than good.

A 2022 study by the National Study of Medicine found physical activity was an effective strategy for reducing cortisol levels over time and potentially benefiting adults with poor mental health. This means that when performed correctly, engaging in physical activity can influence the

workings of the HPA axis by helping it become somewhat imbalanced.

Studies show the intensity of exercise has a significant impact, either positive or negative, on minimizing overwhelming stress. Exercise of low, moderate, or vigorous intensity invokes the release of endorphins, hormones that enhance one’s overall sense of well-being and alleviating both stress and pain, meaning that exercise of any kind is proven to be healthy for mental wellness. Howeverintermsofstressresponse, the intensity of exercise matters. Studies show high intensity exercise stimulates the HPA axis which results in a temporary augmentation of cortisol levels and subsequently increases the stressfulness sensation.

The same studies found low intensity exercise limits HPA stimulation. Over time, the effects of HPA axis stimulation, such as exercise are considerable.

Bilingualism makes the brain more resilient to Alzheimer’s

GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK

GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK

Exercise intensity influences efficacy of stress reduction.

Pair of Men’s Hockey players selected to represent Canada at FISU Games

Jack Duff and Nolan Hutcheson travel to Italy to compete on world stage

Aidan Michaelov

Senior Sports Editor

A pair of players from the Queen’s Men’s Hockey team have been selected to join Head Coach, Brett Gibson, and Team Canada at the 2025 FISU Winter World University Games. Defenceman and Captain Jack Duff ArtSci ’25, along with forward Nolan Hutcheson ArtSci ’25, who serves as the team’s alternate captain, will travel to Torino, Italy, later this month to compete for international glory.

The FISU World University Games are a multi-sport event organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU). The event is designed for university athletes from around the world to come together to compete for gold while fostering cultural exchange

opportunity. To have two players from one team being able to compete for a gold medal at the world stage is a testament to our team overall and not just individually. Without the first half of the season we had, who knows if we’d be having this opportunity to play for our country,” Hutcheson said in an interview with The Journal

Hutcheson is currently leading the OUA in goals scored, with 16 so far, seven of which were game-winning goals.

Duff has been a terror to play against during his time as a Gael, helping Queen’s solidify themselves as one of the top penalty killers in the nation and one of the most challenging programs to score against.

While Duff’s contributions may not be shown on the stat sheet, his physical style of play and smart decision-making have proven himself capable of playing on the international stage.

Duff and Hutcheson are two of the top players on the Gaels, and in participating on Team Canada, they’ll be joining an array of the nation’s talent.

“The team here is filled with top-end players from all around Canadian universities. Each player here is exceptional and are all excited to have the chance to play alongside each other. It’s always neat to see how you blend with players from other teams you compete against during the regular season. I think when you come to an event like this, those rivals are put to the side for the time being,” Hutcheson said.

The roster selected to compete in Italy is comprised of the top players on teams from all across Canada, including 12 players from the OUA .

The most well represented team is the Concordia Stingers, with two forwards and one defenseman being sent to Italy. Currently, the Stingers sit atop the OUA East, at 16-2 through 18 games played.

Speaking to the challenges that might come about in trying to mesh with an entirely different roster, Hutcheson stated that building chemistry off-ice is the key to on-ice success.

“By keeping it simple. I think it starts off the ice, finding chemistry through

Ollie engen cOntinues tO shine midway thrOugh rOOkie year

Engen is off to a hot start.

Men’s Basketball new recruit helps team achieve 9-1 record midway through season

Herbert Wang

Assistant Sports Editor

Coming into this year, there were plenty of question marks about how the Queen’s Men’s Basketball team would perform.

The offseason wasn’t kind to them, with many key players like Cole Syllas, Sci ’24, Michael Kelvin II, ArtSci ’25, Cam Bett, ArtSci ’24, and Fofo Adetogun, MA ’24 leaving to other schools, or graduating.

Focusing on basketball was crucial for Engen’s continued development at Orangeville Prep, a school that has produced many National Basketball Association (NBA) players including star Canadian point guard for the Denver Nuggets, and NBA champion, Jamal Murray.

“My experience in Orangeville was really good, they were really good at making the university transition a lot easier . It allowed me to learn from new people and be able to play against the best,” Engen added.

Playing for a competitive program connected him with many players who have committed to various National Collegiate Athletics Association Division 1 programs across the United States. However, Engen, who hails from Kingston, felt a pull towards his hometown team.

Drawing comparisons between Queen’s hockey players and professional all-stars

Similar to an Oct. 11 Aidan’s Angle, where I drew comparisons between some of the players on the Gaels basketball teams and National Basketball Association stars, this edition of Aidan’s Angle will focus solely on Queen’s hockey and their professional counterparts.

finding chemistry on the ice with an entirely

you can’t change the the team to begin yourself and the team that

University Games will get underway on have already travelled to the

On the other hand, the coaching staff produced one of the strongest recruiting classes in recent memory, filling six roster spots with first-year players. Of the six, Ollie Engen, Kin ’28, is projected to have the greatest impact, being ranked the fourth-best recruit in Ontario for the 2028 class by 247Sports.

A key question needed to be answered about who could step into the shoes of all-time Gaels greats such Cole Syllas. Midway through the season, with a 9-1 record, Head Coach, Stephen Barrie, seems to have found his answer through the hometown hero Ollie Engen.

Averaging 20 points a game, Engen leads the OUA in scoring, shooting an efficient 51.0 percent from the field. He’s also averaging 3.5 assists and 4.6 rebounds on the year.

Engen, the son of a basketball player, has played the sport since a young age.

“My dad played basketball growing up, so that was how I got introduced to it, and it was always kind of just the sport that I liked the most, so stuck with it,” Engen said in an interview with The Journal

“I was in Kingston a lot and around Steph a lot, and got to see the team a lot, and it just felt like the best fit and made the most sense in terms of school basketball and just the place that I wanted to be the most,” he said.

“The culture that Queen’s had for the last however many years is very supportive, very competitive, very, together. And it was the place that I had felt that the most of anywhere.”

Despite his personal success, Engen continues to see himself as a part of the larger team, focusing on team success more than personal accolades.

“We see ourselves as a as a top team, a team that can compete, and a team that’s striving to win. […] If things like Rookie of the Year happen and stuff like that, that’s good, but I’m more so just out there, just trying to get better, and just be out there with the guys,” Engen emphasized.

As Engen is, after all, just a rookie, with his talent, he’ll only continue to get better, and just like as a child, basketball seems to be the plan for Ollie Engen.

Nolan Hutcheson (Forward)

Nolan Hutcheson, ArtSci ’25, has been an offensive titan for the Gaels thus far this season.

In just 18 games played, the Kingston native has recorded 16 goals and four assists, totalling 20 points.

Most impressively, seven

of Hutcheson’s 16 goals have been game-winners. While his two hat tricks and numerous multi point performances have kept Queen’s competitive in many games, Hutcheson has consistently demonstrated his clutch gene, securing crucial victories for the Gaels.

While numerous goal scorers have helped their teams on a large scale, perhaps none have had as large an impact as the Edmonton Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl.

Aidan Michaelov Senior Sports Editor

Duff and Hutcheson trade Tricolour for maple leaf.

GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK

Horoscopes: New year, new you

What the new year has in store for the star signs

The Psychic Scholar Staff Writer

Can you believe it’s already 2025? The stars are aligning for a year of new beginnings, deep connections, and some classic zodiac drama. Expect career shifts, love twists, and a few WTF moments.

Just remember, while the stars may have big plans for you, they’re also the ones responsible for making Mercury retrograde a mess—year after year. Buckle up, zodiacs, 2025 is about to get interesting!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Dust off your CV, Sagittarius—2025 might be the year you land a job that feels tailor-made for you. While you may need to focus your many interests, once you do, opportunities will start rolling in faster than you expect. Keep your optimism high and your resume polished—your dream job could be just around the corner!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

Aim high, Capricorn! 2025 is the year you’ll push boundaries in your professional life. A long-term project or goal you’ve been nurturing will finally bear fruit, bringing much recognition and reward. Be mindful of your finances, though—invest wisely and resist impulse spending—that’s so last year.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Love is in the air, Aquarius. Your connections with those around you will deepen this year, especially in romantic relationships. Trust and communication will be key, so take time to cherish your bonds, even as new ones sprout up. Leave your cynicism behind—2025 is bound to be a good one!

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Focus up, Pisces! Your New Year’s resolutions are lofty, yes, but if you commit to self-care and mindfulness, your work will yield long-lasting results. Consistency will be your secret weapon—small steps will lead to big wins. 2025? More like 202-thrive!

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Brace yourself, Aries— this year is all about stepping out of your comfort zone. Big opportunities are knocking, but you’ll need to swap overthinking for action. Your boldness will be your greatest asset, so trust your instincts and dive in headfirst. 2025 isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about chasing what sets your soul on fire.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Plan ahead, Taurus—spring is bringing a new opportunity your way. This is a great time to focus on long-term financial goals, like savings, investments, or even a major purchase that boosts your sense of security. While winter may feel like a bit of a grind, rest assured, 2025 has your back.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Buckle up, Gemini— 2025 is coming in hot, and so are your plans! With your multitasking superpower, I’m sure you’re already juggling New Year’s resolutions. However, don’t forget to actually finish something this year. Keep to-do lists handy, stay caffeinated, and watch as your whirlwind energy turns chaos into brilliance.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Cancer, heads up—this year you’ll find yourself stuck in a loop of second-guessing, making it harder to move forward into the new year. Opportunities might slip by because you’re too busy seeking comfort instead of taking risks. While it’s okay to take care of yourself, be cautious of letting fear hold you back from embracing change.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Leo, 2025 might throw a few curveballs your way. Your usual confidence might be shaken, and you may find yourself questioning the people around you. While you’re used to being the centre of attention, this year might require a bit of humility and reflection. The spotlight won’t always be on you, giving you a chance to build a stronger, more grounded foundation for the future.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

The stars called, Virgo, and they claim that 2025’s the year you’ll finally stop overthinking love. Whether you’re single or taken, your natural ability to analyze every little thing might turn you into a relationship detective. But remember—sometimes, love isn’t about the perfect timing or a pros and con’s list, it’s about having fun.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Family matters, Libra. This year, your family dynamics might shift, and not in the smoothest way. You’ll likely find yourself playing the peacemaker, trying to balance everyone’s needs (as you do best). While you crave harmony, don’t be afraid to set boundaries when necessary— sometimes, you can’t fix everything with a well-placed compliment or a carefully worded compromise.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Hey Scorpio, chill out! This year is practically begging you to take a breather. You’re known for diving deep into everything, but in 2025, taking a break might actually help you come back stronger. Whether it’s a quick getaway or just stepping back from that never-ending to-do list, allow yourself the space to recharge.

ARTS & CULTURE

Queen’s Journal alumnus shares the strength of those affected by 2024 Jasper wildfires

‘Jasper on Fire: Five Days of Hell in a Rocky Mountain Paradise’ reveals personal stories of the brave

Madison Taylor & Cloey

Aconley Journal Staff

In July 2024, the nation watched as Jasper, Alta. burned.

In his first book, Matthew Scace, ArtSci ’21 tells the stories of those who were affected by the 2024 Jasper wildfires firsthand.

Rolling out on Jan. 21, Jasper on Fire: Five Days of Hell in a Rocky Mountain Paradise transforms what began as a news article into a moving long-form account of the Jasper wildfires. Published by Sutherland House Books, Scace’s non-fiction work prioritizes raising awareness about wildfire prevention and giving back to the Jasper community. Highlighting the generosity of those willing to share their story after losing their homes, Scace treats their accounts with empathy and respect.

A proud alumnus of The Journal , Scace acquired skills during his time at Queen’s that have helped him succeed. As a reporter at the Calgary Herald and Calgary Sun, the author has always been drawn to human interest stories. People are at the heart of what Scace does.

After watching the wildfires from afar, Scace wrote an article for the Calgary Herald on the experience of Filipino immigrants who

were evacuated. Shortly after, he was approached by Kenneth Whyte, founder of Sutherland House Books to share the story of others affected by the fires.

The support of a publishing house behind the project allowed Scace to focus on the book’s content, rather than the added stress that comes with self-publication.

“I knew I had to say yes once he asked. It’s an opportunity you don’t get every day,” Scace said in an interview with The Journal.

Working under a tight deadline, Scace got to work, and fast.

Reaching out to those affected by the fires, Scace approached the interview process with empathy as a priority.

“The main concern I had was that people just wouldn’t be ready to talk, and I wouldn’t get people on the phone,” Scace said. He expressed the challenges of covering such an emotional event, voicing heartfelt gratitude to those willing to share their stories.

“Some of the conversations were really hard, because it was clear that they were still really shaken up by it, but also they were really kind people which was really beautiful,” Scace shared. “They were very open with me.”

Despite not being a local, Jasper is a place Scace knows well. Spending his time after Queen’s working in in Prince George B.C., he has fond memories of visiting Jasper often. This familiarity with the town helped Scace find his footing in the writing process.

“Going back was strange,” Scace shared. “It’s a very strange feeling

Spotify Wrapped is always watching

Spotify is making a list and checking it twice

Eva Sheahan Assistant Arts & Culture Editor

Be careful who you listen to—it may come back to bite you.

The release of Spotify Wrapped every year is like your best friend’s birthday in Grade seven—it’s a scramble to post on your social media for all to see. I wish I could say I was exaggerating about the scale of this phenomenon, but I’m not. Spotify Wrapped is a big deal. For those of you who live under a rock or are sadly on the dying ship of Apple Music, Spotify Wrapped is a clever marketing strategy in the form of a music report card, emerging yearly in late November or early December, to let listeners see their top artists, genres, and songs of the year.

revealing Juice WRLD as their number one artist. The numbers don’t lie.

Spotify Wrapped can function in a strategic manner for interpersonal relationships as well as a way of using music to scope out compatibility with various new people in your life. I have a tendency to avoid those with Morgan Wallen as their top artist. No offence intended—I’m just not the girl you’d want if you’re looking for a date to Tumble Tuesday.

to see an entire neighbourhood that you’ve walked through just not exist anymore.”

As well as sharing the stories of those affected, Jasper on Fire also has a future focus. With climate change playing an increasing role in these events, education is crucial.

“I think the thing that I saw in this book is that we’re not taking a full approach in handling them [the fires],” Scace said. “If we know these fires are going to happen, then how do we prepare for them?” he added.

By speaking with firefighters who fought the blaze, Scace learned that preventing fire from hitting homes in the first place is essential. The book’s introductory section explains important information, and technical aspects on how the fire spread, colouring the rest of the narrative. This combination of the scientific and the personal creates a full picture of the events that occurred in Jasper.

As an act of recognition, and on the recommendation of a friend, Scace is donating a percentage of the proceeds to the Jasper Community Team Society, a local non-profit dedicated to supporting and connecting the Jasper community, now more than ever.

“I think it’s important because this book’s going to talk about something that’s really challenging for a lot of people,” Scace shared.

“It’s sort of a way to give back, and also I think people will hopefully want to help too.”

Every other Instagram story is a screenshot of people sharing who their top artist of the year was, how many minutes they spent listening to music, or their top five most played songs. Unless of course, you belong to the other crowd—those who strive to keep their statistics a secret, fueled by embarrassment or shame. Playing “Boomerang” by Jojo Siwa ironically starts to feel a little too real when it’s your number one song of the year.

Spotify Wrapped takes the randomness and disarray of the listening experience and packages it into a neat, entertaining slideshow full of random facts drawn from your data.

As we roll into 2025, it’s crucial to remember that Spotify is always watching. Traditionally, Spotify collects data from Jan. 1 until the fall season of the same year, meaning the clock has already begun. I’m not exempt in this cultural phenomenon either and I’m slightly concerned that “Dancing Through Life” from Wicked might be my Top Song of 2025.

Not only does it expose your guilty pleasures to your peers, Spotify Wrapped can inspire intense competition. The campus cool kids who walk around constantly with headphones will secretly compare whether or not they have more minutes than those who post. Posers who walk around in Nirvana and Pearl Jam T-shirts will fight for their life before

On a more serious note, Spotify Wrapped can also solidify a connection between fans and their favourite artists. This year, my number one artist was Clairo. I’ve always deeply admired Clairo’s work, but having her as my top artist of the year made me reflect on the ways in which her music had supported me throughout the year and years prior. I know just the exact song of hers to do my makeup to before a night out, to sob to, to dance to, and more.

Having statistics about our listening habits can lead us to a new level of introspection about our musical and lyrical likes and dislikes. Going through the yearly playlists Spotify creates each year of our top 100 songs can show us our musical growth. It shows us how we express ourselves through different melodies and notes. It also reminds us how often we subconsciously rely on music to get us through depressing break-ups, hours of readings, raging parties, or to lull us to sleep.

On the flip side, Spotify Wrapped can serve as an unsettling reminder that our data is always being tracked and watched. Even our guilty pleasures, like the Hamilton soundtrack or the Glee covers. It’s odd to remember how much of our interests and pleasures can be traced through our phones and virtual footprints. Beyond solely our likes and dislikes, Spotify knows exactly when we pause our music to the exact brand of headphone we are using. This slightly invasive level of surveillance begs the question of how much more Spotify can find out about us. Let this serve as a reminder that even in the privacy of your own home, you’re not truly alone—Spotify is watching, ready to expose you at the first opportunity.

Matthew Scace’s first book hits shelves on Jan. 21

SUPPLIED BY MATTHEW SCACE

Spotify has its eye on you. GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK

Slimmed Down Records set to rebrand

Embracing the underground, founders hope to put artists’ interests first

Madison Taylor Senior Arts & Culture Editor

Slimmed Down Records is returning to its roots in 2025.

Slimmed Down Records (SDR), founded by Darius Caloia, Sci ’25, and his brother Dante Caloia, ArtSci ’23, is rebranding as they head into the new year. The collective, which hosts electronic music events, provides a platform for DJs to share their content under their brand, and releases mixes—with expansion into other areas on the horizon, has plans to shift to a more underground sound, veering away from the mainstream.

Born out of the brothers’ shared love for electronic music, SDR began as a way for them to share the music they enjoyed among likeminded friends.

“[Dante] was DJing at the time, and I was in second year. We would always mix together, and we would always do shows together, but there was never really an official name it was under or anything,” Darius Caloia shared in an interview with The Journal.

Growing up, the brothers’ creativity was encouraged by their mother who has a thriving career as a comedian. Darius Caloia discussed how her success showed him pursuing a creative profession is possible.

“If you do it for 20 years and you actually care about it, and put your passion into it, it’s fully achievable,” Caloia said. By creating SDR, the founders created a space for likeminded friends and individuals to share music and collaborate, but also to encourage potential venues to take them more seriously as students with an established brand to support them.

SDR wears many hats, but events are where they shine. “Our main focus—or where most people would see us—is with events, putting on shows, doing club takeovers,” Caloia said.

Caloia highlighted how SDR’s rebrand involves showcasing genres that don’t always appear in the usual student clubbing circuit, describing the collective’s main genre as deep tech. Additionally he hopes to attract DJs of other genres to SDR whose styles are different.

Inspired by DJs like Nic Fanciulli, Paco Osuana, and Chris Stussy, and the model of record label Mood Child, electronic music is important to Caloia.

This move towards the underground is a return of sorts for SDR.

“As we got bigger, and as we grew into more opportunities, we shifted more mainstream, as more people started coming out. Now, it’s just trying to kind of go back

Laziness rules the silver screen with never-ending remakes, sequels, and biopics

Eva Sheahan

Assistant Arts & Culture Editor

Viewers are tired of watching the same story redone over and over at the expense of new, refreshing stories that could redefine the film canon.

As I sat down to watch the 2025 Golden Globes on Jan.7, I was reminded of the brazen lack of originality that’s currently thriving in Hollywood. The various titles that were nominated for awards included Mr & Mrs. Smith,

to our roots, and really do whatever’s true to us as artists,” Caloia shared. Artist autonomy and commercial viability is a balance that isn’t always easy to strike. Caloia has found approaching it from a business mindset helps, asking, “what do they [clubs] want from this? What can I provide to them? While still trying to keep the artistic vision uncompromised,” he said.

Caloia’s time at Queen’s has allowed him to get to know the crowds he plays for, and their taste. “It’s been great being a student

here, cause I think I can really reach crowds personally, or just get to know people, see if people like the same style of music, and then pick similarities between them, and kind of tailor the events around that,” he shared.

“I think everybody’s grown over the past four years, and growing with them, you kind of understand where everyone’s headspace is at.”

The recurring event series that began in late 2023 “Then There Was House” will continue into the winter semester, as well as the introduction of “EXPO.” “EXPO”

will run twice a month in collaboration with Nite Entertainment, giving the performing DJs more freedom to explore different genres. Hosted at the University Tavern, the events will have a traditional booth setup, and a dance-focused feeling, with the first event on Jan. 10. This series, along with the rebrand, is a journey Caloia is excited for.

“I’m a little bit nervous because it is something new, and it’s a bit of a risk. But I’m excited. It could be kind of the beginning of a new chapter, which is nice.”

relatively warm reviews and has an impressive score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s disappointing to see an adaptation honoured for its writing at the expense of the other unique and original nominations like Anora, a new film that follows a young escort from Brooklyn who impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch, and A Real Pain, a dramedy about two cousins travelling Poland together to honour their late grandmother.

Sequels and remakes can be entertaining. Trust me, I was shaking with anticipation for the release of Wicked, and as an avid reader, I find the book to movie pipeline very rewarding. However, there’s no reason adaptations, remakes, or sequels should be completely dominating the entertainment sphere over stories that inspire creativity and new ideas.

way to make the most money.

The art of film-making is being lost within Hollywood.

The amount of American films that are created off of pre-existing material has drastically risen over the past 25 years. In 2000, the films in Hollywood were almost evenly split between original and non-original plots. Whereas in 2024, non-original plots dominate more than 80 per cent of Hollywood’s entertainment.

Art is being forgotten and passed over for films like a shot by shot live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon, releasing in June 2025. I love the film—who doesn’t—but based on the trailer, it doesn’t seem like we need a live-action remake that’s identical to the animated original.

challenge our thinking.

These original stories that I speak of do exist—they aren’t entirely extinct. There are many creative storytellers with a tale to tell. There are plenty of aspiring directors and creators capable of bringing something fresh to the scene, like Jane Schoenbrun did this year with I Saw the TV Glow or Andrea Arnold with Bird. However, their voices are being drowned out and ignored in Hollywood by the non-stop propulsion of stories we’ve seen or heard before.

a show based on the 2003 movie by the same name, Moana 2, a sequel to the original Disney film, and The Wild Robot, based on Peter Brown’s 2016 book.

As award season kicked off, I was looking forward to seeing great, original movies receive the recognition they deserve. My high expectations were deflated when Conclave, a film that was adapted from a 2016 novel by the same name, won Best Screenplay. While Conclave is receiving

The snub of original ideas by the Golden Globes only confirmed the existing notion that Hollywood doesn’t care to commemorate and encourage new stories. It instead seeks to pump out movies built off of pre-existing material, most likely because it’s easier story-wise, and leads to larger fiscal revenue. Movies with an already established fan base, like Gladiator, will guarantee more revenue than an innovative lowbudget indie film.

Movie making is being reduced to centre around the easiest

When there were rumours about a remake for the popular 1987 film, The Princess Bride, actor Cary Elwes who played one of the main characters, Wesley, tweeted “there’s a shortage of perfect movies in this world. It would be a pity to damage this one.”

In other words, if it ain’t broke—don’t fix it. If a story already exists in the ether, there’s no reason to tamper with it.

This transition away from originality may not seem relevant, but audiences deserve clever and imaginative stories for stimulation and inspiration. Fresh stories help to broaden our perspectives and

Hollywood must begin offering more opportunities for screenwriters and filmmakers outside of their direct sphere. Emboldened with creativity and imagination, these new voices will shake the lazy and sleeping spirit of Hollywood awake and help invigorate the contemporary film canon.

For those of you who appreciate movies and are bored of repeated material, go to an independent cinema, like The Screening Room, and explore the world of film that exists outside of Hollywood and the many wonderful works that weren’t recognized at this year’s Golden Globes.

I don’t know how much more of the repetition audiences can take until movies altogether lose their appeal—and I don’t want to imagine a world without stories and listeners.

Fresh stories deserve awards too. GRAPHIC BY NATALIE VIEBROCK

Darius Caloia talks plans for 2025.

PHOTO BY NELSON CHEN

I’ll likely never live in my hometown again

Saying goodbye to the city I grew up in

Natalie Viebrock Postscript Editor

With “Sparks” by Coldplay droning through my AirPods, I take a deep breath and try to steady my nerves as the plane takes off.

Reality has finally hit me: as the hazy map of Winnipeg grows smaller beneath the plane’s wings, I bid farewell to the place that has been my home for most of the last 13 years, for what’s perhaps the very last time.

Maybe it’s the dulcet tones of Chris Martin masking the Air Canada in-flight safety video, but tears sting my eyes as I watch the city I grew up in dissolve into a speck amongst the prairies. Though I’ve long known this departure was coming, I find myself startingly unprepared.

I began to write this piece a week or two ago—under the covers of my childhood bed, probably also listening to “Sparks” by Coldplay (can you tell I have a go-to cry song)—but I couldn’t quite verbalize my feelings. So, as my 7 a.m. flight began to taxi down the runway, I opened my laptop and started a document titled “I’ll likely never live in my hometown again.”

Clearly, I have a flair for the dramatics.

Winnipeg turned out to be a wonderful place to grow up—and, before you make any “middle of nowhere” jokes, I ask you to hear me out. The flat, sprawling prairies were perfect for learning how to ride a bike. The frigid winters were shocking, at first, but gifted me countless white Christmases—and white Halloweens, and white Easters.

Over time, my idea of Winnipeg began to grow from the chilly unknown I’d seen on Google Images into a place I fondly called home.

she and my dad would be moving back to Toronto. Though I found myself back in the same position as I was at seven, I was far more involved in discussions of the future and my mom’s job hunt this time round.

“This wasn’t just about my parents leaving Winnipeg. It was about me leaving, too

Though I was proud and excited for my parents

learned how to skate, and sat through endless summer thunderstorms that lit up the prairie sky. It’s where I got my first part-time job, graduated high school, learned to drive (albeit quite late in life), and made friendships that have carried me through some of life’s hardest seasons.

The weight of this goodbye hit hardest the night I packed up my bedroom. I had been putting it off for the whole winter break, knowing it would be more than just a chore.

At seven years old, my mom sat me down and told me we would be leaving our beloved Toronto home and neighbourhood and moving to Winnipeg. While the stress of leaving behind the only life and community I had ever known was taxing on my seven-year-old brain, I was also filled with a bubbling excitement of what was to come.

As I had never been, and all of my extended family lives in Ontario, I relied entirely on my parents’ descriptions of Winnipeg. They spoke highly of the winter activities I’d be able to

on the family desktop computer, the results of which were overwhelmingly white and snowy—a blank slate for the life my family could create.

I began to fall in love with the idea of a city I had never met.

“I began to fall in love with the idea of a city I had never met

We moved in August of 2011. At the critical ages of seven and five, my sister and I began at a new school, my mom started her new job—the reason for the move—and my dad began the essential process of setting up our new home.

Being away at university for months at a time has further solidified this feeling. Like in college movies I grew up watching, Winnipeg has come to feel like my “hometown”—a place I return to during winter and summer breaks, filling the quiet of my parents’ empty nest.

Though my time in the city has become more infrequent over the past few years, my affection for Winnipeg has never faltered. ***

However, it came as no surprise when, after 13 years, my mom sat me down to let me know that

to return to Toronto—a city that had always remained a big part of our family story—I couldn’t ignore the pangs of finality. This wasn’t just about my parents leaving Winnipeg. It was about me leaving, too.

The realization that I’ll likely never live here again feels surreal. Winnipeg isn’t just a city where I grew up—it’s a city that grew with me. It shaped me, molded and gave me the tools to navigate life far beyond its borders. It’s where I experienced my first -40° Celsius winter,

As I sifted through my desk drawers and closet shelves, I found artifacts of my childhood and teenage years tucked away in forgotten corners: crumpled school projects, glittery Rainbow Loom bracelets, and dozens of half-filled journals with pages of messy handwriting that captured the drama of Grade five crushes and cafeteria politics. Even my bookshelf held surprises. Books I had long outgrown but couldn’t bear to part with suddenly became portals to simpler times. I held each one for a moment longer than necessary, flipping through the pages, remembering how they felt like entire worlds back then.

Now, as I look down at the shrunken skyline from the plane, I wonder how much of Winnipeg I’ll carry with me. My Spotify has now shifted to “The Scientist” (somehow still depressing Coldplay), and I can’t help but laugh at the

Natalie is leaving Winnipeg, cherishing 13 years of memories and the city that shaped her.