Guide to Vanier 2015

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THE VANDOO

THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

EDITORIAL STAFF 2015 - 2016

Welcome to a marvelous new year here at York University! This year, like every year, the place to be is Vanier College. As we start into the new school year, a large group of new students are welcomed into the mix that is YorkU, and an even larger group returns to a place that they love and come back to year after year. Many new things are here, as we just concluded the Pan Am and Para Pan Am games which held their Track and Field events and the new subway is still on its way, still. But seriously, this is the school you have come to know and admire, from the long lines at Tim Hortons to the constant stigma that going to York brings, but we embrace it and prove to outsiders day after day how wrong they may be.

My name is Suneel Mistry and I am the Editor in Chief for the 2015-2016 year here at The Vandoo. We are definitely starting this year with a big bang, as we publish our First Guide to Vanier College in such an eventful year, being the 50th anniversary of our lovely establishment here at the college.

A lot of tremendous things are already in the works and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

This year we have a great team that is 100% behind the magical piece of paper you are currently holding. A lot of things have been in progression over the summer and now is when we get to start rolling things out and showing the world what was behind that mysterious curtain. From breathtaking writers to ace editors there are many more people you have yet to meet. While you may be reading this in a physical paper, you should also check us out on the interwebs at thevandoo.ca, where you can see many dif-

an opportunity, so make sure you make the most of it; if you don’t well there will always be a tomorrow. We here at the Vandoo aim to brighten up your day, by giving you enjoyment or information or both, either way we are here to help you through your university journey.

ferent written pieces uploaded every day and videos, all for your enjoyment.

This year there most definitely is a load of great new things happening in our city and our world that this human being is wholly looking forward to. From the elections that clearly everyone is happy about, to the upcoming album from Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, which will surely top charts when it is released. Personally I am undoubtedly looking forward to Alejandro González Iñárritu’s upcoming film, ‘The Revenant’, about trappers in the North during the 1800’s. It is being held in high regard since his previous work for Birdman which won multiple Academy Awards, and the recent reveal that he is shooting the film with all natural light, all in the American and Canadian North. When he uses this method it seems to be a revelation but when we here at the Vandoo aim to shoot all of our outdoor videos with natural light it seems to go unnoticed. Although we also have never filmed or directed an Academy Award winning film, sometimes a little acclaim for our definite progress in this large field should be noted somewhere. Or perhaps I will just make my own Oscars and call it the Suneels and hand out awards to what is truly worthy. With that, there would definitely be a Mjolnir Award for they who

Suneel Mistry Editor in Chief

are worthy enough to be able to wield the acclaim of the Mjolnir Award. Along with that the year of 2016 is clear to simply blow my mind from Deadpool in February, to Batman v Superman in March, followed by Daredevil Season 2 in April and closing off the school year with Captain America: Civil War. For a superhero and comic lover such as myself, this truly is as close to heaven as one can possibly be. To close off my way too long list of things that I am looking forward to during the year, is a new Wizard of Oz series on NBC directed by Tarsem Singh, who is my favourite director for his work on Immortals, The Fall, Enchanted and many other things.

He is able to create great dark gritty realistic worlds, while still adding colour and making everything vibrant and visually stunning to look at, all while telling a great story. If I had the choice between these and academics, you may just find me permanently stuck in between a couch and a movie theatre... but

sometimes my logical half takes over and you can find me back in lectures 10 to 5, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

This just offers a glance into what can be expected this year with myself, my team here at the Vandoo and this college and university.

With the 50th anniversary there will always be lots of amazing things coming and with 8 month of time to use, only great things can be anticipated and you are here at the start, ready to take this great journey with us. As one great writer once said “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss. From this each one of you should embrace reading, and even though we all have to do way too many readings for all of our classes it is always good to detox the constant glare of textbooks with fun and enjoyable reads whether it be the latest young-adult sensation, or the constant journey of ‘freedom’ that the U.S.A has been choosing to bring to, from the Middle East to Mars. Even pick up a comic book and enjoy the art and fantastical stories that it provides. Whatever you choose to do, make it enjoyable for yourself and don’t let school get you down. It most definitely will be a short and long year for everyone, so why not make it one to remember. Every day is

Chat with Suneel on Twitter @SUNEELMISTRY

Eunice Patrick Editor

Sabrina Atzori Editor

Samantha Borges

Media Manager

Nicole Yanqui

In her third year studying towards a major in Humanities, Alexandra’s diversity in interests and skills have left her future rather unpredictable with infinitive possibilities.

Whether through a hand drawn sketch or the sound of an instrument, Alex often finds herself resorting to the Arts as a means of relaxation and expression. Her competence as a writer is truly a newfound attribute and as she isn’t one to verbally express her opinions and fascinations, she has only recently taken to authoring her thoughts through the power of words. Alexandra lives by the idea in which the only thing to be feared in life is time and that the only way of overcoming this obstacle overcoming a single critical mental disorder: thinking.

Eunice Patrick is a second year, public administration student specializing in policy analysis, who ultimately hopes to work within an agency such as the UN. She is a part of two clubs on campus, one being the student association for her program, and the other being an outreach initiative for grade school students. Additionally, Eunice enjoys learning about various countries, cultures and political systems, and is fascinated by law. When her schedule allows for it, she also enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading and watching movies, and being active both indoors and outdoors.

Sabrina is in her fourth year of studies at Glendon College, York University’s bilingual campus, where she majors in (drum roll please) English. After she graduates, she hopes to pursue a career in writing, editing, and/or publishing. Although this is her first year a part of The Vandoo editorial team, Sabrina has had opportunities in the past to publish some of her creative work for both Glendon and Keele’s newspapers. When she is not preoccupied with school, or working as a sports monitor for seniors, Sabrina enjoys writing poetry, reading books, hanging out with friends, binge-watching her favourite TV shows, and adding to her collection of body art.

Growing up in a multicultural home, Samantha was raised with an appreciation and respect for other cultures and traditions prompting a passion and craving for travel and adventure. She hopes to travel to at least one country in every continent. Her other interests include, dancing, singing (but not well), dirt biking, video games and excessive browsing through social media. In her first year at York, Samantha took on the role of First Year Representative for Vanier College Council and has since tried to frequently take part in extracurricular activities within her York community. Currently, Samantha is in her second year as an undecided major student. Future aspirations are still unknown.

Nicole Yanqui is a fourth year Professional Writing and French Studies student. Traveling since she was a child, Nicole has set her sights on exploring as much of the world as she can, and eventually getting her ESL teaching license to teach abroad. She also enjoys creating and editing books, and hopes to find a career in publishing one day. In her spare time, she plays for York’s Women’s Lacrosse Team and tries to keep an active lifestyle. This is her second year on The Vandoo Newspaper as the Web Editor.

Andres Flores Staff Writer

Chris Ford Staff Writer

Daniel Fernandes

David He Staff Writer

Evangeline Medina

Andres Flores is a man of many strong opinions and has no problem defending them.

A native of Argentina, he has come to enjoy the finer things in life like scotch. And that’s about it. Spending most of the time working, reading, and doing research, he battles ignorance everyday, and will one day be a proud scientist focusing on human behaviour and questioning mental illness. He is a firm believer in education not being reserved to institutions, but rather a lifelong habit. When you really analyze human interactions, the only substance we have to offer one another is our minds. Let’s not waste them.

Christopher Ford is a fourth year social science student from Markham, ON, with a yearning for learning and a passion for people. Though currently a Staff Writer, Christopher is a former Van-doo Layout Editor and Editor in Chief, and is a proud Vanier College affiliate. When not in class, Christopher has spent most of his time at the Office for Student Community & Leadership De-velopment, where he has worked as a RED Zone Ambassador and a Media & Communications Ambassador. The rest of his time has been spent in transit, with a coffee in his hand and a pen in his ear.

Daniel Fernandes is the youngest son of hard working Indian immigrants who gave up everything in pursuit of a better life for their children. Though a promising high school student, Daniel chose to enter the workforce full time directly from high school, working a variety of jobs until he landed his current position at a Chartered Bank. Over the years he worked his way up from personal banking to the Investment department, learning a plethora of invaluable life skills and corporate lessons along the way. After much reflection and a burning desire for higher education and personal growth, Daniel enrolled in York University’s Business program, part time.

David is a peace lover, and believes that happiness, friendship, freedom, and laughter are the things that make life worth living. David is also a wonderful friend and good listener.

Confident in his etiquette, David considers the word “polite” to be his middle name. Furthermore, he believes that his ability to speak three languages is what has granted him the access to an even bigger world. Currently, David is in his third year at York University.

He works very hard in school and believes that it is important to acknowledge the accomplishments of others.

Alexandra Mascarenhas

Editor

Staff Writer

Web Editor

Staff Writer Evangeline grew up in a close-knit household filled with laughter, movies, music, books, and the distinct aroma of Asian cuisine hailing from her father’s kitchen. Her fondest memories of childhood consist of passionate conversations about current events, outreach initiatives, and familial tales over daily family dinners. Currently, Evangeline is in her third year of studies at York University majoring in English. She aspires to be a human rights and international lawyer and hopes to be admitted to the J.D. program next fall. In her spare time, this globetrotter enjoys exploring new places, trying different types of cuisines, going on dinner and a movie dates with her husband, and hosting dinner parties for family and friends.

THE VANDOO

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THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MASTER We are pleased to announce that Stanley Tweyman is the Master of Vanier College.

While first starting out at the Glendon campus, he made the transition to Keele as a Vanier Fellow and professor. Although he has been affiliated with Vanier College since 1974, he has held an array of positions from teaching, Graduate Director in Philosophy, academic advisor at Winters College and Vanier College, and finally becoming the Master. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy; his main interests being the Enlightenment and the philosophies of Rene Descartes and David Hume. Stanley Tweyman is an accomplished scholar, author and editor of philosophical books.

He was present on my orientation day to give a speech to all incoming students at Vanier and to meet and greet all of us afterward for our courtyard lunch. Master Tweyman is a very caring individual, who has much to offer to students by way of guidance, insight, and what they can expect at Vanier and at York University.

His responsibilities at Vanier College include, but are not limited to: • Working with the Vanier’s Academic Life Coordinator Professor Janice Newton: an accomplished person in her own right; together they coordinate activities throughout the school year for our students.

• Overseeing the residence life coordinator Dimple Savla: In this regard, the Master and the RLC see to it that all students in Vanier college housing’s needs are met • Overseeing the various administrators in the College • Working with SCLD: the Student Community and Leadership Development team.

• Working with the Vanier College Council: special events are planned throughout the year, some of which are exclusively for Vanier students. Don’t miss out on all the fun this year! For more details on upcoming events or to contact the Council.

• Working with Vanier College Productions, Vanier’s own student theatrical group.

His office is always open to students who need help in any area, and he and his team organize activities and programming throughout the year for students. Having attended some activities and talks throughout my time at York U myself, I was awestruck at how such an accomplished person could give so much of his time to helping students while still staying on top of his academic pursuits. The Master also invites students to meet with him regarding any suggestions on furthering the improvement of the College; from workshops suggestions to performance pieces, new ideas are always welcome.

As for all you new students, the Master has 5 tips especially for you: 1) Make New Connections: university is a big place and it is easy to get lost; both physically and mentally. On your first day of school, most of the people around you are feeling the exact same way, but it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s all in your hands.

2) Make Vanier Your Second Home: here at Vanier, there is always something going on, so be in the know and a part of the family here. There are plenty of resources for all your needs right here on campus. Don’t be a stranger.

3) Join a Club: this is the best way not only to meet new people, but people who have the same interests as you 4) Attend Every Single Class: university is only 25 weeks out of your entire year, and it passes by quickly. To make sure you don’t miss anything, attend every class and don’t fall behind 5) Hone Your Writing and Speaking Skills: whether you’re writing a paper or speaking to a professor, language says a lot about you.

Make a good impression at all times Stanley Tweyman also works with the associated departments at Vanier listed below: • Humanities: if you’re interested in a broadbased program in human cultures and how they have developed historically, then this is the place for you! The coordinator, Avron Kulak is located in room 219 of Vanier

major category!

Apart from his very busy schedule, he is currently teaching a course, The Enlightenment and Human Understanding; so for all those interested in Philosophy and Humanities, you can also reach out to the Master and maybe enroll in his class.

Andres Flores Staff Writer College and can be reached here: akulak@ yorku.ca • Philosophy: an area of specialization for Stanley Tweyman, York University offers a great philosophy program in the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies. For more information, you can find them here: http://www.yorku.ca/laps/phil/ • Business and Society: known a “BUSO” around York, this stream undergoes a multidisciplinary approach including philosophy, history, economics, geography, sociology, and political science. More information can be found here: http://www.yorku.ca/laps/ sosc/buso/ • Economics: if you love policy then this is the course for you and it couldn’t have come at a better time as one ranking places York university sixth in Canada overall for its economics program! All you need to know can be found here: http://econ.yorku.ca • Undecided Majors: this arguably puts you in an advantage as you can choose from virtually any course at York and go through a trial and error process until you find what you would like to pursue as a degree. Don’t spend too much time thinking though; York requires you to declare a major by the time you finish first year. The undecided major webpage can be found here: http://www. yorku.ca/vanier/unma.html. Stay up to date on any and all workshops in the undecided

As an aside, any books you may wish to donate for the Vanier Annual Booksale can be dropped off at the Office of the Master, located on the second floor of Vanier in room 254. Vanier College has a proud tradition overseen by the Master to resell any used books for helping other students.

Having been to these books sales the last two years I can tell you that this is a great way to reach out to help fellow students, or to help yourself to a great deal! For those who wish

to contact or speak with the Master, you can reach him at 416-736-2100, ext. 44084 or stweyman@yorku.ca.

The Master and everyone else at Vanier College are looking forward to be celebrating our 50th year anniversary! Stay tuned for details surrounding these events. It’s a great time to be a Vanier student!

We have an excellent dedicated staff at Vanier College, including Professor Janice Newson, Vanier’s College Academic Life Coordinator; Diana Sargla, Vanier’s Administrative Assistant; Sonja Agostini, and Antoinetta Condello; and Dimple Savla,Vanier’s Residence Life Coordinator. Each is committed to promoting and enhancing student life at the College and the University.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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THE VANDOO

THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

vanier college council

Hello Vanier Students,

Hello to all, I am Daniel Cabalse and I am the Student Council President for Vanier College for the 2015-2016 school year. I am currently studying Economics in my 5th year of study. I really hope that you had an enjoyable summer, whether you had to take a few summer courses, got the chance to go on a trip or vacation, work and work or even just spend the summer relaxing and enjoying the break. I hope that you are all excited for another school year and I wish you all the best of luck with organizing your school schedule. For those newly admitted students, I want to formally welcome you to the Vanier College community and York University at large. I am very confident in saying that you are entering a very monumental time in your life coming to University to pursue further education and I am so grateful that Vanier and York can be your home away from home for your future years of study. Vanier is a college within York University that is home to students who are a part of various programs such as disciplines in Economics, Humanities, Business & Society, Children Studies, Philosophy and also home to those in the Undecided Major Program. With

many programs, Vanier is a very diverse community where you as students are able to express your interest in an environment that is very welcoming and accepting. I want you all to know as students that there are many opportunities at the University and I strongly encourage you to take those op-

WHAT’S UP VANIER?! I’m Nadia, your Orientation Chair and VP Social and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to the 2015-2016 school year. For our returning students, welcome back. And for our incoming first years, I’d like to extend an extra special welcome to what will hopefully become your favourite place on campus.

We’re lucky to belong to a university which provides us with the opportunities it does.

Not only do we have a beautiful campus and endless academic opportunities but we’re lucky enough to have a college system in place which provides us with a social community.

Over the past few years, I can’t tell you what I’ve learned in a lecture hall but what I can tell you is that the college system provides you with the sort of personal growth and development that everyone needs.

I can’t say this is the same for everyone but coming out of high school, I wasn’t expecting university to be much different than what I had always known: The graduating class is far cooler than the ninth grades, everyone belongs to a distinct group of friends, you must conform into a set standard of what is “cool,” etc.

I can’t speak for the entire campus but in Vanier College, there has been such a positive culture created for our community over the last few years and I’d like to share what

has been the most wonderful experience for me thus far.

Regardless of what your passions are, regardless of how you wish to express yourself, regardless of who you are, when you walk into our college, you’re a family member and an immediate friend, whether we know each other yet, or not, whether you’ve been here before, or not. You will never walk into a student space of ours and not be immediately greeted by a dozen smiling faces. Everyone wants to know you, everyone wants to show you around, and everyone wants to find out more about you. And being who you truly are is celebrated.

The thing about Vanier is that we’re very strong on our support system, our familial bond and our “vibe” which we emit. It’s the most positive place I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. There’s no tolerance here for negativity; and the best part is, students in our spaces are genuine in this statement.

All everyone wants around here is to have a good time.

This is my happy place, as it is for many others. I never complain about having school daily because I know that sure, I have to sit in my classes for a few hours and study for a few hours but afterwards, I get to go to our office and be greeted by the community.

Without having participated in Orientation Week, I never would have known about these

daniel cabalse

President

portunities. Some of these opportunities are programs to help with your student success, clubs and organizations to get you involved, networking opportunities with students, staff and faculty and many more things. I want you as students to take all the opportunities and use them to help better yourself, make a memorable experience for your future, and realize that you have to potential to make an impact in the world. The point of University is do be academically successful but that road to get to your vision of success is unique and above all else yours to make. Student leaders like myself and such as those on Vanier College Council will do our best to give back to you and we will do our best to make your experience at University a memorable one. I want to wish you all a successful school year and above all a successful journey, because indeed you and I are the future and I believe that the future is bright because of students like you and I.

Nadia Greco VP. SOCIAL

opportunities or what university would have become. I thought that to get this experience, I had to go away for university. Little did I know, all I had to do was get involved (and you can do so in whichever way you see most fitting. I chose to involve myself with the Vanier College Council, but there’s various clubs, intramurals or simply, events we put on for our students).

Photographed by Suneel Mistry There’s no doubt that the experience for each person will be different but it’s one of those adventures which you must experience for yourself to understand.

University has been the most life-changing experience I’ve endured through thus far.

The last few years have brought me the highest I’ve ever been and also knocked me down the lowest. It has been a time for self-growth, development and reflection. And sure, it

might sound silly for someone who hasn’t experienced it just yet but I know it’s something you’ll come to understand.

I’ve made countless mistakes here but also a countless number of positive choices. I’ve both had others impact me and impacted others. All those things are an inevitability which I’m glad to have experienced within the environment and community that I belong to on this campus.

Logan Post

Annalisa Crisostomo

Kendra Stewart

Baron Belalov

Check out Council on

Facebook

Vanier College Council

Alex Stor

VP Finance

Jason Lomboy

VP Communications

Twitter

@Vanier_College

Instagram

Dir. Social

Dir. Campaigns & Advacacy

@VanierVsEverybody

and

Youtube

Vanier Panthers

Yoseph Wondwossen

Dir. Finance

Peter Man Van Dir. Communications

Dir. Admin

Speaker

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5

THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

vanier college athletics

There are many misconceptions when it comes to university students. For example, if you spend most, if not all of your time studying at the library, people often label you as the ‘nerd.’ However, being passionate about your studies does not have to take away from your passion for sports! Here at Vanier College, you have access to a wide range of intercollegiate teams, which provide both the opportunity to perfect your athletic abilities, and the opportunity to make lifetime memories.

Vanier College Athletics offers two tiers, competitive (Tier 1) and recreational (Tier 2), making intramurals available and fun for everyone. The Tier 1 is for those who are more interested in the competitive aspects of sports, allowing players to attend scheduled trainings, and games to be more professional and structured. On the other hand, the Tier 2 is a place for those who wish to have fun.

It is for the students who are just starting to learn the game, and a tier such as this one ensures that they can do so in a low-pressure environment.

Being a member of Vanier’s athletic program comes with the responsibility of encouraging fellow teammates, ensuring that all members are allowed the opportunity to succeed as athletes. To aid in that success, coaching staff is present to train every sports team. Their duty is to help team members, in every possible way, to achieve both individual and collective goals. In order to achieve these goals, coaches ensure that their players benefit from state-of-the-art training techniques, services, and facilities. Through this assistance, practices, league play and tournaments, Vanier College Athletics offers many opportunities for members to show their unique abilities and improve their skills.

Now you may be wondering, who represents our beloved sports teams here at Vanier?

Vanier’s Athletic Council of course! The council is comprised of a president and two

vice-presidents, along with four directors.

They are each responsible for their own specific group and contribute greatly to the organization and success of the club. The positions of first year male and female representatives are always open at the beginning of the year, so if you are interested in any of these positions, please see the contact section below for more information!

out of my position, which will probably yield many memorable experiences.

Ms. Yi (as Y): Playing broomball and jamming out to the music in the ice rink.

Mr. Mendes (as M): Winning my first intramural basketball game with my teammates.

Vanier Panthers ftw…and T-rexes are so vulnerable with their tiny arms and massive head.

Y: T-rex sized panther because a panthers cuter than a t-rex.

M: I would rather be a t-rex sized panther.

O: What are you looking forward to this year?

Curious to know what the council has to say?

Here are some recent interviews with various members!

N: I’m looking forward to meeting all the new froshies and encouraging them to join as many sports as possible, and hopefully (fingers crossed) winning the torch for once.

B: Making new friends, meeting new people, and participating in new sports are just a few of the things I’m looking forward to this year.

Y: Meeting new people and making sure they have just as much fun as I did during my first year.

M: Trying new sports this year for Vanier’s intramurals.

Clearly, the Athletics Council at Vanier College is committed to ensuring that every participant has the chance to enjoy playing their favorite sport as a member of any team.

Additionally, These intramural sports programs are not only a wonderful opportunity for you to ‘keep in shape,’ but also a good opportunity for you to ‘keep in touch.’ To many new students at York, academic achievement is the number one goal on their to-do-list.

However, as soon as we fit ourselves into the YorkU community, we suddenly see the importance of ‘linkage,’ or a group or small society, which one can find a place to belong.

It is always a bonus to find yourself participating in a group where you feel comfortable and where you are appreciated for your unique abilities.

First, is the Vice President of Athletics, Lovelle Navos. Ms. Navos’s responsibilities are to promote the intramural program, discuss events with Vanier College Council, and help with finances. As the VP of Athletics, she helps the student body by encouraging others to participate in sports and try new things. She always found that intramurals helped her escape from school when she was stressed and meet new people. Therefore, she wants others to share her experiences with joining intramurals. She first started playing intramurals because Ashley (last year’s VAC President) met her in the hallway and convinced her to play some sports, eventually leading to her playing every sport. She then applied to be the First Year Athletic Rep. and gained more experience, which lead to her joining VAC this year.

We also interviewed Emmett Britton, the newly appointed Athletic Director of the Vanier Athletics Council. Primarily, he helps support and supervise the intramural program associated with Vanier College. He also promotes the healthy and social benefits of keeping active, through multiple programs at York. Mr. Britton has also shared with us his reason of involvement with the VAC. Back then, he had a strong interest in a variety of sports, ranging from hockey to handball.

When his peers notified him about the available position on the Athletics Council, he thought it would be the perfect bridge be-

David He Staff Writer tween his interests and getting more involved in Vanier student life.

Lastly, we interviewed two Sports Directors, Sharon Yi and Andreas Mendes. As to their job tasks, Ms. Yi is responsible for managing certain sports, ensuring that teams are assembled and that members are informed of scheduled games. Mr. Mendes is responsible for assisting the Vanier Sports Committee. At their positions, Ms. Yi and Mr. Mendes have contributed to the student body by promoting intramurals and helping students get more involved. They hope that through their continuous efforts, more students will get involved in this club as they once did.

Furthermore, our representative has asked additional questions which allows us to have more information about them!

Our Representative (as O): What is your favorite memory from the club?

Ms. Navos (as N): My favorite memory of Athletics would probably be just meeting everyone and being able to make new friends.

It has made me more open and outgoing to new people.

Mr. Britton (as B): As of now, receiving notification that I had obtained the position. The year is young and I plan on making the most

O: If you could say something to yourself in first year, what would it be?

N: That I made a good choice to join Vanier Athletics Council and that it has changed my life so much for the better.

B: The transition from high school to university life wasn’t the easiest. If I could go back, I would have said that time management is vital to success, and to keep it a top priority.

Y: “You should’ve done fall sports.”

M: To get involved in more clubs for intramurals.

If you would like more information regarding Vanier Athletics, their office is located at 027 Vanier College. They can also be reached by phone at (416) 736-2100 – extension 22829, or by email at vacpanthers@gmail. com.

O: Who is your favorite Fictional Character?

N: Does Pikachu count…? (I like him because he’s cute) Y: Minions!

M: My favorite fictional character is Goku.

O: Would you rather be a panther sized T-rex or a T-rex sized panther?

N: I’d rather be a T-rex sized panther because

vanier college productions The present has provided us with instantaneous access to any and all television shows and films but history has prevailed a most organic form of dramatic entertainment that is still practiced and well respected to this day. The theatre has birthed some of the most remarkable and inspiring stories that mankind has ever come to know.

Though many students often find themselves preoccupied with academics or catching up on sleep, most forget to incorporate extracurriculars and hobbies into their daily routines. The performing arts are a common and abstract release of academic stress and dramatic passion and, for this reason, Vanier College Productions (VCP) offers a chance for students from any and all disciplines across the campus of York University to reconnect with the roots of the dramatic arts whether through creation, production or performance.

The company is always looking for new additions, in fact, they are currently searching for new production staff as well as holding auditions for new performers. So, if you are interested in taking up a role as one of VCP’s many stage managers, technicians, designers, builders, and painters, or if you are looking to assist in sets, costumes, props, lighting, audio, front of house, marketing, graphic designing or website designing for the upcoming seasons in the theatre, sign up sheets will be posted outside the Fred Thury Studio Theatre, 258 Vanier College (2nd Floor) from September 9th - 11th, 2015. Audition sign up sheets will also be provided on these dates as the company is also pleased to announce this year’s Vanier Improv Company, 7 Stories

and Jekyll & Hyde for which they are in search of new and talented actors, singers, dancers and performers! VCP has also come to be well known for their Show Choir for which new voices are soon to be recruited.

On Monday, September 22nd, 2015, Vanier College Productions is hosting a Welcome Dinner at 5:30 pm in 001 Vanier College for all students interested in joining the Show Choir and no auditions or prior experience is required! For those who are required to audition, however, VCP is incredibly understanding to the butterflies and anxiety that come with that first audition. To assist students as they quest to become part of the magnificence that is Vanier College Productions, the company has so generously outlined a breakdown of what each type of audition might consist of and how to prepare yourselves so you can kiss the butterflies and nausea away and release the performer within at your auditions!

It is most definitely safe to say the club has expanded since it’s founding in 1972 by Fredrick H. Thury. Offering a plethora of spectacles from famous playwrights such as Shakespeare to student-written playwrights to improv to musical or comedic performances, VCP charges an average of $12 admission for York students with a valid ID or $20 for non-students. A box office link is available on their website through which advance purchases and early reservations are recommended and encouraged especially for this season’s first production: The Last Five Years. Vanier College Productions and #IOTG Productions have proudly co-produced a limited run of Tony-Award

Alexandra Mascarenhas

Editor

winning composer Jason Robert Brown’s The Last Five Years. According to their website the production embodies “an emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of five years.” One of Time Magazine’s 10 best shows of 2001, the production is also a Drama Desk winner and as a testament to the longevity of the show and its spur of regional popularity, The Last Five Years “enjoyed an Off-Broadway revival at Second Stage in 2013 and a film adaptation was released in 2014 starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan.” Composed and written by Jason Robert Brown, the play was originally produced by Northlight Theatre, Chicago, Illinois and originally produced for the New York Stage by Arielle Tepper and Marty Bell only to be finally performed and reproduced by the most talented members of VCP and #IOTG Productions on September 3rd - 6th, 2015 at the Fred Thury

Studio Theatre, 258 Vanier College. Tickets are currently available at the VCP box office so feel free to support our friends from Vanier College Productions as they embark on the emotional phenomenon that is The Last Five Years!

VCP is extremely devoted to giving credit where it is due and this is certainly exemplified by the company’s attention to contributors whether financial or through performances. For those who have made a significant impression on the community, Vanier College Productions has arranged an award system dedicated to the recognition of all positive impacts. The following awards have been observed from the organization’s website: • THE GOLD TICKET is given to returning VCP alumni who continue to strengthen the fine traditions of the VCP experience.

• THE GOLD FROG is a VCP participant who has shown sensitive and caring commitment and dedication above and beyond the expectations of others. This manifests itself in the many hours spent (on costumes, sets, lighting, acting, publicity) and in comradeship, thus contributing to the positive environment required by the theatrical experience.

• THE FRED THURY AWARD is a grant award approved by the Senate in 1992 which recognizes a graduating student whose work with VCP has contributed to the life and many facets of Vanier College.

• THE GOLDEN EAGLE is given to those who have shown outstanding and compelling commitment to VCP in the Vanier College Studio setting.

• THE GOLD HEART is awarded to a member for being a positive role model, showing excellence in leadership, and being supportive of the VCP community experience both in and out of the theatre.

In terms of financial aid, Vanier College Productions is funded by Vanier College and Vanier College Council from which annual contributions are made. The theatre company, however, also hosts something entitled “The Chair Project”. The Chair Project was initiated to establish future operating funds through the construction of an endowment fund that is sustained by donors through the York University Foundation. This campaign encourages donor support for Vanier College Productions by providing benefactors with opportunity to have a chair installed on the theatre wall for every hundred-dollar donation.

For more information about productions, auditions, The Chair Project and more, do not hesitate to contact Vanier College Productions located at 258 Vanier College, by phone (416) 736-2100 x40023, or via email, vcp@yorku.ca. You can also visit their official website at http://www.vaniercollegeproductions.com.

Vanier College Productions

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THE VANDOO

THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

VANIER AFFILIATED CLUBS

The Philosophia Club uniquely and inclusively provides a forum for students to every week and discuss topics in the field of philosophy. With this, comes a variety of other spaces and activities that the Philosophia Club participates in routinely.

An outstanding aspect of this club can be seen through its intensive participation in the publishing of The Oracle, York University’s Undergraduate Philosophical Review Journal. This particular journal is published each year, through the effort of Philosophia’s Executive Council, the YorkU Philosophy Department and the York University Printing Services. Besides this journal being a fascinating read, it offers an exciting chance for undergraduates to submit their original essays to the journal to be published. As if this prospect isn’t prestigious enough, upon publication, contributors have their

Being a freshman can be tough, but thankfully there are ways to relieve the inevitable stress of university. For those in the Children’s Studies program, stress-relief comes in the form of an inviting club, the Children’s Studies Student Association! Though this club is closely affiliated with the Children’s Studies program at York University, all students are offered the opportunity to further their knowledge of children and their cultures. However, their goals don’t stop there! They also seek to advocate for children’s rights, build friendships and network through social and cultural events, host information sessions, and provide resources for members.

The CHSTSA is active within the university and is especially active in Vanier College.

Their executive council often attends the Vanier college academic orientation to meet and discuss any questions new students may have. This initiative also extends into mentoring, as they have their own peer mentorship program in which there is opportunity for members to help each other in

The Business and Society Student Club or BUSOSC, is a student-run organization located out of room 101C at Vanier College. Though affiliated with the Business and Society department, this club provides meaningful opportunities for both Business and Society students, and students within other majors. This being said, many of the events held by BUSOSC do involve the various streams that are a part of the BUSO program.

From fundraisers to conferences, BUSOSC provides a range of exciting and informative events for its members. In the past, they have even welcomed Adam Tampuri, the President of Fairtrade Africe, as a guest speaker! In tune with the constant innovation and evolution of our society, last year’s conference was themed “Moving away from Traditional Business.” This successful confer-

ence featured many fascinating businesses, including Alterna Savings, Ontario Natural Food Co-op, International Co-operative Alliance, Project Mars, Operation Groundswell, Center for Social Innovation and a speaker from Las Nubes, an educational and developmental project in Costa Rica. Students were also privileged with the opportunity to expand their academic interests with professors from the Public Policy and Administration department. Besides the exciting chance to gain information about social economy and possible future careers, this conference also provided career planning and networking advantages that attending lectures may not always offer. Another information-rich event that The Business and Society Student Club held, is the Fair-Trade event. This event was graced by Nagi Harb, the President of Fairtrade Brasil, and Huhues Tshibemba, the

Director of Mark Integrity and International Relations at Fairtrade Canada. Along with an insightful speech outlining the benefits of Fairtrade, came delicious Fairtrade bananas.

Even though BUSOSC events can offer a great learning experience, they also provide opportunities to show off your baking skills, through fundraising bake sales! The activity of this club doesn’t stop there, providing peer mentorship initiatives for students who may have questions and concerns about their grades and programs. This branch of BUSOSC, can be especially helpful for new students, as university can at first be overwhelming! For example, students can opt to book appointments with third and fourth year students who have tackled BUSO assignments, course material, essays and exams. Students also have the choice to attend

very own biographical note included! The Philosophia Club also holds its very own Undergraduate Philosophy Conference.

Their conferences feature speakers who have been published in The Oracle, professors from York University, and even professors from other universities. Past conferences have included professors such as Dr. Shyam Ranganathan, Maor Levitin, Jonas Monte, Callum Haslam, Neil J. H Kim and so many more! Topics have ranged from examinations of the Psychopathic Personality Disorder to ethics, to even time travel. After experiencing these interesting lectures by great thinkers, members are privileged with the chance to meet and discuss with these very intellects! Their annual conference isn’t the only opportunity to hear ideas from reputed thinkers within the philosophy space. This club also hosts many other intellectual events

which welcome professors and academics, and provide a variety of opportunities to network. Some of these events have featured AMAs or ‘Ask Me Anything’ with professors from York University, such as Professor Brian D. Huss, who has discussed his research interests, including epistemology, ethics of belief, and philosophy of psychology. Some events have welcomed professors from other universities, such as Dr. Klaas J. Kraay from Ryerson University, while other events features professors such as Professor David Stamos, to discuss their new books! The Philosophia Club also hosts social events in which students can gather to take part in fun activities. Examples of these social events include viewings of related movies, such as ‘Donnie Darko,’ trips to the aquarium, and show and tells! Many of these events can provide an inclusive space for new students

to meet other students (even from other schools!), and a comfortable environment to meet professors and make an impression!

Similar to other clubs, The Philosophia Club has social media pages, including a Facebook group titled ‘Philosophia.’ Joining their Facebook group not only provides a quick and convenient method to keep up to date with events and opportunities, but also offers the chance to read up on interesting articles and thoughts from other members.

Not to mention that philosophy, academic, and personal queries can be answered and discussed with other individuals who likely have and have had the same questions! If you are interested in joining this club, or simply want to learn more about their activity, their main website is located at philosophia.club. yorku.ca, and they can be directly contacted at philclub@yorku.ca.

For those enrolled in the Classical Studies program, and for those whom possess interest in the worlds of Ancient Greece and Rome and their corresponding literature, languages, history and culture, the Classical Studies Students Association is the club to join. From field trips that are sure to spark high-school nostalgia, to opportunities to meet professors within the department, this club has the a perfect balance of academics and fun.

The CSSA usually starts their year by holding their annual welcome symposium.

This event features the chance to meet the members and the executive council, obtain membership, and enjoy a nice meal. This event is also a great way to make likeminded friends, learn more about a degree in classical studies, and even receive tips on how to prepare for graduate school! In the

past, they’ve hosted a number of significant thinkers in the Classical Studies space. In 2014, they arranged for Professor Leslie Korrick, an art history professor, who also worked at an archaeological site in Monte Testaccio, to lecture on Roman pottery and Roman archaeology. This lecture also featured a fan-favourite, free food! Being a part of this club also offers chances to make new connections with members from the Undergraduate History Students Association, through their annual joint conference.

The UHSA-CSSA Undergraduate History Conference provides a forum for members to sample the work of fellow peers, while sharing their own papers and ideas. Not only is this a great space to meet other individuals who are passionate about Classical Studies and brush up on public-speaking skills, but presenting at this conference provides an im-

pressive addition to a cover letter or resume.

Another area which the Classical Studies Students Association provides opportunity for scholarly information and discussion, is their Classical Studies Research Day! Their last recorded Research Day featured professors such as RobertTordoff, Ryan Wei, Jaclyn Neel and Ben Kelly. These professors, along with others, shared their research topics with students over tea, coffee and lunch. Amid all these exciting academic events, the CSSA has also arranged fun trips to the Royal Ontario Museum, in which members can discuss different galleries and artifacts, while enjoying a day in Downtown Toronto. The CSSA also provides the chance to participate in charity work! In recent years, members have organized a successful bake sale, in which the proceeds went to a Native Women’s Shelter, and delicious nutella brownies

a variety of different ways. This program can prove helpful when new students may have questions about changing their courses, or have concerns about upcoming assignments and exams. Members are even welcomed to do homework and seek assistance from other members in the CHSTSA room. The Children’s Studies Student Association also gives members the chance to provide assistance to others, creating volunteer opportunities through both their own fundraising efforts, and by connecting members to charities and organizations. An example of past fundraising events, includes collecting food donations for a local food bank. This club also hosts many informative events, which can be both beneficial and interesting!

A unique opportunity that members may be granted, is an event in which the results of research completed by the third year Children’s Studies students are presented.

This demonstration provides an exciting learning opportunity, especially for students who may be considering conducting their own child-centered research. Another event

that may help students prepare and plan for their future, is the career fair. This occasion, is a great space to learn about different career paths in Children’s Studies and get involved with other child-centered organizations at and outside of York! Past career fairs have featured career presentations from organizations such as Save the Children, First nations Child and Family Services, Canada’s Academy of Stage and Studio Arts and Social Entrepreneurs. The CHSTSA also knows how to host fun social events, such as pub nights! A past pub night has been hosted at York University’s very own the Underground, and featured a fantasy/fairytale theme. Besides the chance to meet other students in the Children’s Studies program and students with similar interests, there were free airbrush tattoos, costume contests, a live DJ and giveaways!

For students interested in joining the Children’s Studies Student Association, they are welcome to join through YU Connect, but can also contact this club directly at chstsay-

Federazione Canadese Italiana

various workshops that involve topics such as how to improve essay writing skills, ways to get the most out of lectures and tutorials and methods to improve listening, note taking, and critical questioning skills.

The Business and Society Student Club like many clubs organized at York University provides well-rounded events and opportunities for BUSO students while catching and inviting the interest of students in other programs. Though their website, (https:// busoclub.wordpress.com) provides intensive information of the club and its various events and initiatives, they can also be reached directly at york.buso.club@gmail. com.

PHILOSOPHIA

went for a mere seventy-five cents.

This club also maintains an active and informative Facebook page, (Classical Studies Students Association @ YorkU), which can prove useful for members in many ways.

In our social media saturated society, the CSSA page conveniently provides timely updates on events, and interesting articles on topics such as recent archaeological finds. Alongside these advantages, members also have the option of posting queries and concerns regarding courses, and may even find chances to learn languages with friends, and options to join sub-groups including reading circles! If students want to contact the Classical Studies Students Association directy, they can be reached at yorkucssa@ gmail.com!

The Children’s Studies Student Association

http://yorkchstsa.blogspot.ca/

ork@gmail.com.

One would never think to find the largest Italian cultural club at York down the small hallway that connects Vanier with the rest of complex one; however, as soon as you open the door to room 101F in Vanier, you know you’ve arrived. The Federazione Canadese Italiana (FCI) is one of a number of cultural clubs affiliated with Vanier College, and many Italian and Non-Italian students call it home.

“We offer a smaller community within the large York community,” tells current FCI president Nicole Servinis, “for people of any background who enjoy Italian culture to meet, celebrate and participate in various events.” The FCI runs a number of events

throughout the year, such as smaller movie nights and game nights and large-venue events. The largest of these include the Pizza, Pasta, and Porchetta Night — where folks get together to enjoy the wonderful cuisine, music, and culture of Italy — and the Ballo in Maschera — a masquerade ball inspired by the Venetian ball that’s full of dancing, raffles, food, and friends. The FCI even fields its own intramural soccer team, made up of enthusiastic club members.

Yet, with all these great opportunities for involvement and fun, its truly the people and the sharing of experiences that keeps members coming back. “The club has allowed me to not only be able to share and celebrate my

Italian heritage but make friends with similar values that I will keep for a lifetime. “We aren’t just friends: we’re a family!”

You can find the FCI on Facebook and YU Connect, or visit them at their office in VC 101F.

THE VANDOO As former Japanese International Student Association President Matthew De Melo invites me into VC 110, I find myself immediately thinking, wow, I could really fit in here.

This is exactly the kind of environment that JISA tries to foster, he later tells me, after we’ve sat down on one of the two comfy beige couches. It’s a place where students from all walks of life can come to make friends, share stories and culture — or even just to watch some DragonBall Z. “Though JISA has the formal mission of ‘Bridging social and cultural differences for incoming Japanese international students living in Canada,’ through its over two decades the club has transformed into so much more.”

Indeed, just by looking at the content of the office shelves — from the Halloween decorations to the Playstation games to the Story of the 47 Ronin novel — it seems to do much more than introduce Japanese students to Canadian university life. Founded approximately 23 years ago by eight Japanese students, JISA saw a great deal of publicity in 2011 when its members volunteered countless hours of their time, making thousands

of paper cranes to raise money for victims of the earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan in March of that year. Both the cranes and the funds raised were sent to York’s sister universities in Japan. Nowadays, it is home to hundreds of students, and is well known to hundreds more at the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, the University of Waterloo, and McMaster University.

This is in part due to its very strong ties to university and college exchange programs, who often connect Japanese students coming to study in Canada with JISA. Yet, as I’ve suggested earlier JISA offers a cultural experience like no other. “I suppose if I had to describe what JISA is, I might have to use the word ‘nerdy’ — but that’s still not everything,” Matt told me.

“Basically, when you first come in to the JISA office, you’re a blank slate. People look at you without expectation: just as a potential friend.” This is what makes the JISA office and events sites for constant exchanges of knowledge and culture. And, of course, lots of fun. “You’re a person, and we’d like to get to know you.” Is that what drew you

http://www2.yorkulions.ca/

Do you want to change the world? Do you want to find your purpose and passion in life? Power to Change may just be the club for you! Power to Change is a student-led international organization with over 100,000 members from across the globe. They are a Christian evangelical club which welcomes students from all backgrounds and faiths to join them on a journey to discovering Jesus. Power to change engages its members to lead others on faith based adventures to learn about the gospel and teachings of Jesus Christ. The organization is rapidly expanding as it engages students worldwide to explore and grow their faith within their school and beyond.

If travelling the world and spreading the gospel is of interest to you, Power to Change can help. As one of the largest global Christian organizations, they are able to partner with

other countries to spread change in their local community. Power to change has internship opportunities for mission trips around the world which allow students to evangelize and truly impact the world.

In addition to helping students grow spiritually, York University’s Power to Change chapter hosts an annual weekend getaway which includes: kayaking, canoeing, archery, hiking, swimming, volleyball, frisbee golf, soccer, football, baseball, ultimate frisbee, basketball, board games, high ropes, rappelling, climbing wall. The annual weekend of faith, fun, spiritual growth and fellowship is a much anticipated highlight for members.

In a world where students are constantly concerned with how others view them, Power to Change clearly states its position as a modern, non-conventional Christian club: “This is no happy hand-holding party or

in, I asked Matt? He chuckles, telling me that he really had no intention of seeking out and joining JISA. “I just happened to be walking by one day in my first year at York; the door was wide open, and a couple people sitting inside just said, ‘Hey, come in and hang out with us!’ Years later, I became president.” JISA is well known not just for its commitment to championing Japanese language and culture — they hold a ton of cultural events, including a sushi dinners and a large orientation event for new Japanese students in Toronto, and they hold regular drop-in Japanese language sessions where english-speaking students can learn Japanese and Japanese students can practice english — but also its variety. “We have our own JISA frosh week with tons of events, we hold regular movie nights and game nights, and we also have our biggest event, the ski trip, that happens every year.” They even have a cosplay café event, where students and their guests cosplay their favourite film, television, and game characters, and have a night of games, food, and coffee. And all this is not including the congregation that meets almost

daily in VC 110.

“Basically,” Matt says, “JISA is also for anyone who just wants to learn english or japanese, or meet friends, or have fun. Or any combination of those.” When I finally ask the big question —what has being a member of JISA meant to you? — Matt is silent for a moment. Finally, he says: “It’s done a lot for me — I’ve gained confidence in myself, gained valuable leadership experience, and been able to be a around a lot like-minded people.

I’ve made lifelong friends here.”

He smiles. “Being a part of JISA has changed my life.”

For many Vanier students, room 202 is often known as the Frosh Week commuter room.

However, for the folks at the Martial Arts Club @ York University (MAC@YU), it is a centre for excellence. Two to three times every week, students from all walks of life come together in the large studio to share in the common interests of fitness and martial arts. The club offers a free membership, and provides its students “with access to licensed and experienced instructors,” according to its YU Connect site. Its informal, noncompetitive environment makes it a great place for anyone — beginner, intermediate, or well-trained practicians — to come together to train and have fun. This is part of what makes MAC@YU so special — or at least, that is what the club’s newly elected president tells The Vandoo.“It’s a very open and non-competitive environment,” tells president Omar Hoblos. “Everyone, regardless of their experience, is welcome. We love having everyone join in on the conversation

[around martial arts].” Hoblos began as a general member of MAC@YU in 2012, and describes stumbling upon the club on YU Connect. However, he characterizes the open environment and welcoming community as being what truly drew him in — and what keeps drawing him in to being involved with the club. “What always keeps me coming back is the members. They make the experience wonderful, and no matter what, there’s always a good time to be had. Whether it be training with someone you don’t know, or grabbing dinner with all those who stay until the end of our practices at night.” Hoblos describes the environment as one of the club’s most attractive features: “It’s kept me coming back year after year!”

Though Hoblos notes that the clubs does not facilitate any major events outside of regular weekly practices, there are still opportunities to find the Martial Arts Club outside of room 202. “We’re constantly in touch with the

folks at SCLD for the Stress Busters Carnival, where we host our annual Free Punches event,” he says. “Basically, we let the student body come at us and throw a punch or two.

It’s a great way to get ourselves out there and stir up interest within the York community.”

(Hoblos made sure to add that members are equipped with padding have padding and kicking pads prior to the public administering free punches).

government, the rule of law, free markets, peace and small government. Capitalism is a social and economic system, predominant in the western world, where private ownership of the means of production is combined with a free market system of trade. If you would simply like to learn more about classical liberalism and capitalism, Students for Liberty is a great place to begin. They welcome all students ranging from those with limited knowledge of politics, to those with differing political, social and economic ideologies.

Students for liberty embrace the diversity of the term liberty and encourage debate regarding the different philosophies that underlie liberty. SFL endorses the following principles that comprise liberty: Economic freedom to choose how to provide for one’s life; Social freedom to choose how to live

one’s life and intellectual and academic freedom. Political science and economics aside, SFL believes that young individuals hold the keys to creating a freer world: “SFL is founded on the premise that students can take ownership of their lives, and through their own effort, make the world a different place” –SFL.

is a significant amount of help available for mature students from balancing priorities, essay tutoring, note taking tips and support services for writing support. YUMSO is an extremely valuable resource that I encourage all mature students to take full advantage of.

Some of the services available include, “Intro to Computing Resources, Time and Stress Management, Exam Prep and Study Strategies, Life outside the Classroom, Note-taking, Critical Thinking, and more.” - YUMSO While mature students settle in to University life, there are many questions they may not even think to ask. For example: Where do I find exams for the past 5 years? Where can I find information about health insurance plans and can I opt out? Where is the lost and found? Where is the best place to study on campus? What are some upcoming events at York? YUMSO can help guide mature students to ensure successful social integration into university life.

Find the Japanese International Students Association in VC 110, on Facebook, Twitter, or at yorku.ca/jisa

Japanese International Student Association

Whether you choose merely to give a couple knocks to MAC@YU members at the Stressbuster Carnivals or to attend the weekly practices, the opportunities for personal growth through involving oneself with the organization are endless. “I always sing praises about how the club helped me break out of my shell, and become more outspoken.”

So go on — take a swing at it!

club. We are asking you to join us in turning the world upside-down. You just might find that God will ask you to take steps of faith you you’ve never before imagined. But that’s why we are here – to join you in taking bold, loving and creative steps to help students discover Jesus. We’re a world-changing movement with a cause worth living for.” – Power to Change If you’re interested in discovering Jesus and living a life with passion and purpose, feel free to email York University’s Power to Change president, Grace Olenja for more information: york@p2c.com. If you happen to be at YorkFest, 2015, please visit Power to Change, at 331 Student Centre from 10am to 5pm.

Should prostitution be legalized? Should marijuana be legalized? How will Greece recover economically and politically? If you have any interest in these questions then the Students for Liberty club at York University may be right for you.

The Students for Liberty club, or SFL, is a rapidly growing international network of over 100,000 pro-liberty students. Their mission is to educate, develop and empower the next generation of leaders of liberty. The SFL at York University is a pro-liberty club that aims to highlight the ideas of classical liberalism and capitalism. Classical liberalism is set of ideas that places the freedom of the individual as its most prominent core value. While classical liberalists disagree about many things some of their core beliefs involve individualism, skepticism of power/ University can be extremely challenging for most first year students. This challenge is multiplied exponentially for over 14,000 mature students at York University. A mature student is defined as a student who has been out of full time high school studies for at least two years. As a mature student myself, I can certainly relate to the challenges arising from entering post-secondary school after a significant hiatus. A few of the challenges some mature students face are the following: poor writing and note taking skills, an inability to connect with younger classmates, time management and difficulty getting back into the rhythm of learning full time. Luckily, YUMSO is here to help!

YUMSO was originally founded in 2004 with the intent of helping mature students adjust to post-secondary school after a gap from learning. However, YUMSO has grown to offer mentoring programs and networking opportunities for mature students. There

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THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

In addition to the myriad of resources available through YUMSO, it acts as the perfect way for mature students to network. Mature students often attend York University parttime through evening, weekend or online classes and may not get the chance to network. By becoming a member of YUMSO, a mature student has access to a thriving and influential social group of dedicated adult learners; there are over 600 YUMSO members!

For more information on YUMSO feel free to stop by Vanier, room 113B or email yumso@ yorku.ca YUMSO website: http://www.yorku.ca/ yumso/index.html

Students for Liberty would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone from political novices to conservatives, liberals, greens and new democrats. For anyone looking to expose themselves to the ideology of liberty, the Students for Liberty club is right for you.

Visit Vanier office 101B for more information or feel free to email StudentsforLibertyYKC@gmail.com.

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THE VANDOO

THE VANIER COLLEGE NEWSPAPER

The Importance of Making Friends Good times are even better when they are shared

Let’s face it. The thought of having to make new friends is always daunting. Up until now, friends have well, sort of just been there. When you look back on your earliest friendships, you know, the ones that consisted of making fake farting noises and eating glue, you can never seem to remember how those relationships formed. It was most likely along the lines of simply sharing a toy or asking if someone was in need of a bathroom buddy where you made your first attempt to be a friend. Of course, at that age, most of us did not think twice about the people we were bringing into our lives. All we wanted was a person to play and laugh with. Seems simple enough. But like anything in life, things never stay so simple.

Now fast-forward to high school. Graduation is slowly creeping up on you, and despite your excitement for the freedom you are about to experience, you cannot help but worry about what you will be leaving behind.

Your friends. At this age, you probably have a better idea as to how you ended up in your current social circle. Most of us (if we were lucky) were able to continue on with our

same group of friends because they would be the ones to join us in our secondary school ventures. But those times have ended, and now you are ready (not really) to dive in to your postsecondary education.

It’s the first morning. You are obviously running behind schedule because you changed your outfit a good three times (hey, you have most likely spent the last four years in uniform, and now is the chance to look your best), and unless you have met some cool peers during Frosh week or first year orientation, you are as nervous as a deer on a firing range. You start to wonder how you will make it through these next four years, let alone what you will do with your degree in philosophy once you have graduated. Well, there is time for all of that, but right now, you need to face your first university lecture (which you have missed the first half an hour of because you had no idea a basement floor even existed).

You walk in, red-faced, and to your surprise, the only seats left are those in the front row (because no, no, no, who wants to be THAT student). So you are stuck, not only in an uncomfortable chair with a desk the size of a calculator, but stuck in memories of the past. High school was your prime. You had friends, you knew the building like the back of your hand, books were free of charge, and everything was just a lot easier.

Currently, everything in your life seems so broken, but a wise woman once said that sometimes, good things must fall apart so that better things can fall together. And yes, to all you first year students, it can and will get better. How you say?

Think back to those times at recess. Think back to those times where you just joined in on a game of soccer and ended up having a blast. Think back to when you shared your cream cheese and jelly sandwich with a classmate who had no lunch. You put yourself out there without even knowing it, and that is what you have to do here. You have to put yourself out there. Be the first one to say hello, or in my case, be the first one to make

Sabrina Atzori Editor someone laugh. If there is one thing I have learned in my four years of undergrad, it is that good times are even better when they are shared.

I must say, Bill Withers sure had it right.

We all really do need somebody to lean on.

University can be tough, and I cannot stress enough how important it is to make friends in your first year, as it will make all the difference.

So yes, friends are great to have a laugh with or share a coffee (or three) with, but they are even better to have around if you need some advice or help when it comes to the academic side of things (unfortunately, it can never be just one big social). With how fast paced everything can be, you will want that one classmate to send you the lecture notes you may have missed or to go over an assignment’s guidelines with. When you make those connections in the classroom, you will actually look forward to going to class. You will actually have some sense of security in the unfamiliarity of it all because you know that there is someone you can relate to. There is someone else that gets it.

However, if you find that you cannot make a friend in class, because it can happen and is totally fine when it does, try a different approach to meeting new people, such as joining a club or two. Sure, there is the obvious benefit of expanding your social

circle when it comes to joining a student society, but what is also important to note is that with clubs, the opportunity to acquire new skills and broaden your knowledge of certain topics is also if not more beneficial, as these things are surely advantageous when it comes to future employability.

Employers want to see that you have had positions of responsibility, and as a member of any student society, whether it be your university’s student council or rugby team, you can definitely use your experience to show that you have communication, organization, and teambuilding skills. If you take this step to join a club in first year, not only will you become more comfortable in your new school environment, but you will also be more inclined to join other student organizations as you move further along in your postsecondary studies.

With all that being said, the final question remains. How do we make the first move?

Well my fellow peers, the answer is quite

simple. Just do it. You need to be okay with being uncomfortable. You need to put yourself out there.

I must admit, when I started university, I was not as outgoing and sure of myself as I am today. There are students who are extremely shy. I understand that. But now is not the time to be afraid. Now is the time to seize each and every opportunity you have. Now is the time to grow, to learn who you are and who you want to be.

When you walk into your first day of classes, remember this. Everyone is in the same boat as you are, so put on a lifejacket and prepare to set sail. University might be difficult, stressful, and sometimes just downright awful, but it is sure to be one heck of an adventure.

So stay positive. Stay focused. And enjoy each and every moment.

Photographed by Suneel Mistry

eata budget-friendly for $10 or less a day: guide to york eats

Food is the gateway to one’s culture.

Whenever I plan a visit to a new place, the first thing I look to is their food.

Each region has their own method and preparation, as well as staple ingredients and spices which makes their cuisine uniquely their own. Lucky for me, York University offers various types of cuisines to enjoy and explore.

As a mature student primarily taking 7-10 p.m. classes, my main concern on the way to school after an 8-hour shift at work is what to eat for dinner. I usually cook and pack food for work and school, but there are days where cooking a meal for myself is not feasible. On those days, I usually rely on campus food before heading to class.

When choosing where to spend my dollar, I look for a balance of great taste, nutrition, and value. At York University, there is a plethora of eateries to tickle your taste buds. From Indian to Italian, Greek to Japanese, Caribbean to Thai, burger joints, pubs, and cafés, you are sure to find a place on campus to satisfy your craving.

Lanes and the Student Centre, there are a handful of restaurants to choose from for your first meal of the day, opening as early as 6 a.m., for $5 or less.

Berries and Blooms at York Lanes offers one of the most complete breakfast deals on campus. For $3.99, you get 2 eggs, toast, hash browns, and a coffee. Across the hall, Cucinetta Italian Café offers breakfast wraps of egg and cheese, egg and veggies (Italian western wrap), and bacon, egg, and cheese for $3.50, $3.95, and $4.25, respectively. If a typical Parisian breakfast of pastries and coffee is your thing, Second Cup at York Lanes sits conveniently beside the York Bookstore. Second Cup offers the usual café fare of pastries and java for $5.

And if you are looking for delicious specialty bagels, beside Second Cup stands The Great Canadian Bagel, offering bagel sandwiches starting at $3.30 and toasted bagels with butter for $1.70.

There are 46 food establishments on the Keele Campus in total. However, this budget-friendly campus eating guide simply focuses on the two main eatery hubs at York University: York Lanes (the main street shopping mall) and the Student Centre (the main level food court).

Between these two food hubs, there are 25 food establishments to choose from.

At the opposite end of York Lanes is the infamous, halal friendly establishment, Falafel Hut. This go-to spot servicing York students for 19 hours on most days has been a York Lanes resident for 20 years. It offers some of the best meal deals on campus, with eight super value wraps for the price of $2.85. Chicken BLT on a pita anyone?

Let’s get started with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. I absolutely love breakfast food. There is something about waking up to the smell of luscious scrambled eggs and fluffy pancakes that puts a smile on my face. Between York

In the Student Centre stands a lone wolf. The only breakfast place open early enough for the 8 a.m. student stragglers is Treats Coffee Emporium.

In this little shop by Campus Walk, which opens at 6 a.m. on weekdays,

Evangeline Medina

Staff Writer you will find an array of sandwiches, pastries, treats, and coffee. Their most current breakfast special is an egg and cheese bagel sandwich with a choice of bacon, ham, or sausage paired with a medium coffee for $4.42. For those who prefer a sinful muffin or croissant for breakfast, they are sold here for $1.43.

Once you have downed your morning coffee and attended your first lecture (or two) for the day, the thought of

lunch may start to trickle into your consciousness. Think no more! The eateries at York Lanes and the Student Centre wants your business, especially for lunch. Almost all places have a lunch special for around $6 or much less. Yes, that is practically the same price for most breakfast items at other establishments for much more. The most conspicuous amongst all lunch deals is the one offered at The Island Caribbean Restaurant. This eatery serves hearty and complete lunch specials for as low as $3.32, which includes a Jamaican patty, coco bread, and can of pop. For a more home-style meal, indulge in a jerk chicken (or fried or barbecued) combo with rice and peas, or a vegetarian combo with rice and peas, both for $5.31! For those looking for a gluten-free meal, Mac Sushi in the upper level of the Student Centre serves sushi and maki trays for as low as $5.99.

If the convenience of wraps appeals to you, you can get any 10” signature wrap at Blumont Bistro for $4.87. In addition, check out the vegetarian and

meat tandoori wraps at Indian Flavour starting at $5.31. Falafel Hut also offers daily wrap specials for as low as $3.75.

Looking for a comforting bowl of soup?

La Prep offers 10 oz. soups for $3.39 and Zteca Gourmet Burrito’s 10 oz. seasonal soups are priced at $3.25.

As you journey through the halls of York during Frosh week, keep these deals and food joints in mind. Turn your stroll onto York lanes and the Student Centre into a culinary adventure and explore the various food offerings available to you. The good news is all 25 eateries in both food hubs offer great breakfast, lunch, and dinner deals for $10 or less! So, whether you eat to live or live to eat, take advantage of the great deals, and seize the opportunity to expand your palette while you expand your mind by taking a bite of the cultural mosaic that is York University.

Happy eating!

For a complete listing, description (including any special dietary requirements), and hours of operation for the York Lanes and the Student Centre food establishments, please visit the websites listed below. Also, don’t forget to check out each restaurant’s Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter page to stay up to date with daily specials and deals!

York Lanes: www.york-lanes.ca/restaurant Student Centre: yusc.ca/food-court-info Looking for more? For a complete listing of the 46 restaurants and eateries on the Keele Campus, please check out the York University food services website at foodservices.info.yorku.ca

Photographed by Suneel Mistry