Issue 1, Volume 123

ISSUE 1

XAVERIAN THE WEEKLY XAVERIAN

Thursday Mar 29 2012

Volume 120 Issue 20

EDITORIAL STAFF

Sunday, Thursday,August March 21, 31 2012 2014

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Volume Volume 123 Issue Issue151 Sean McEvoy121 xw.eic@stfx.ca | (902) 870-9431

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PRODUCT ION MANAGER Emma MacPherson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORS-IN-CHIEF xw.product@stfx.ca

Sean Ron Jeremy McEvoy

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Most advice I’ve heard about university either comes from graduates who give you advice on what they should have done (but didn’t), parents who know what you should do (but won’t), or by professors and advisors who want you to get the most out of your education (but never recommend skipping a class). There’s some good advice that comes from all of those sources, but the advice that really works for your average intelligent, procrastinating, internet junkie student comes from cynical fourth-year students who have the perspective of three years of study, without the golden, bullshit-y glow that graduates shine on their studies. I still have to put this stuff into practice. In a year I’ll probably look back on this time with useless, casual expertise, saying things like “calculus could have been so easy.” Until then, here’s the most useful advice I can produce.

Q:Which classes should I skip?

A: If you’re just starting, you’re going to have the realization soon that you can decide when you go to class. Also, if you’re in Arts for first year like I was, you’re going to have more free time in your first three weeks of school than you’ve ever had. If you have an 8:15 and were up on the internet/having sex/toking bong/at the pub/at wing night/watching 80’s movies/hanging out with all your friends until 4AM, it’s going to seem like a real good idea to skip Calc. It might be, or it could dick you for the whole semester. You have to case out the situation before you know what you’re missing.

Before you skip, get a feel for the class. If you can, ask an older student about the class- see if you can get notes and advice from them. Most of us are pretty willing. You’ll know pretty quickly whether a class is skippable- though surprises can still happen. If the professor teaches from Power Points available online, or otherwise posts thorough class notes, you’re probably alright to skip a few. If they take their test answers from the textbook almost entirely (or teach their classes entirely from the text- a too-common professor habit), missing a class isn’t going to kill you, as long as you read the stuff at some point. Basically, if learning and tests don’t depend on being in the class, you can get away with it. A little disclaimer: 99% of my friends who get 90’s don’t skip- ever. I recommend listing to this answer with moderation. Skipping once in a while won’t shatter your dreams of being a surgeon, but chronic skipping will leave you choking and scrambling for notes come midterms and exam season. Plus, reading 16 chapters of physical chemistry the night before an exam takes a little chunk out of the soul. In those situations, I remember three quarters of what I read, max. For a lot of classes, skipping makes it so that you have to learn the material when you’re studying for the test- which can keep you up and really hammer you if you’re not a good tactical studier. So, do what you gotta do, but keep that in mind. If you go to the class, at least you’ve heard the words before.

Don’t skip any classes you consider hard- even though these are the most tempting. If the notes aren’t online, don’t- unless you have a friend who’s willing to give you the notes (patience can wear thin quickly here). If the prof is notorious for testing on in-class material, don’t skip. Ask a second year about specific profs you have. If you’re taking Math 481 Partial Differential Equations, don’t skip it, it’s already inhuman enough. If you’re the kind of person who learns from listening and asking questions, skipping will just make your learning uncomfortable. If you don’t have at least one friend in the class who will be there, it’s always a gamble. Profs are notorious for saying things like “This WILL be on the exam” if the seats are looking sparsely populated. Also, if you hope to get a reference or do research with a particular prof, it’s a good idea to go to all their classes.

Q:How much time should I spend studying?

A: The earlier you start, and the more you do, the easier. But as we all know, this is a crock of shit and studying usually happens no earlier than 72 hours (usually 24) before a midterm or exam. If you can avoid this, you will be better off than 80% of your classmates automatically. One of the major reasons for stress and dropout is lack of preparation. If you’re like me, you might be able to pull a 24-hour study bender before your organic exam and escape above the mediocrity line, but it will suck. If you do this stay hydrated, and eat as if you were working out twice a day.

My mom always tells me to spend an hour a day studying. Deep down I know she’s right. The absolute best thing you can do is study for an hour a day throughout the whole year. Go to Wellspring, eat a cookie, do it. That’s how you become a doctor, or lawyer, or space guy, or professional bowler. Long term gain is notoriously invisible.

A key thing to remember is that you’ll never truly feel like studying, so you may as well start before it starts to suck.

TL;DR: An hour a day keeps the dream of being a doctor alive. Cramming late is possible, but stressful. It lowers GPA, and makes you more afraid to talk to your professors.

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The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

NEWS

Q: How do I buy textbooks like a pro?

A:The Bookstore is ridiculously expensive, and in my humble opinion, is the worst possible place to buy any other books other than cheap Lit major softcovers.

If you’re like me, and have classes that require $220 (new) biochemistry textbooks, buy them used (NOT from the bookstore used- a huge markup). Post on StFX Buy and Sell, or write your email and a list of the textbooks you need on a piece of paper and post it on a wall. There’s this weird illusion among first years especially that there’s some benefit to having new books- the only benefit of this is that new book feeling. A great feeling, but is it worth $800? All the used books I’ve bought have been in great condition. Last year, I bought most of my books from older students while selling my previous year’s books to younger students- basically no net expenditure last year. I arranged a meetup outside of the library where I sold my chem 100 text to a first year for $80 ($180 new), and bought my organic chem behemoth for $80 ($200 new). I posted a sign promising a paper airplane to anyone who would sell me another text I needed for $60 bucks ($190 new). A couple folds later, the deal was done.

New textbooks are a massive scam- they’re rarely different except for a few updated sections and rejigged question numbering. Many professors are sympathetic, and will post the question lists for the last two versions so you can buy a cheaper, older edition. If you have time, and feel like getting your books in advance, check out Amazon or AbeBooks. Books on there are usually less than 50% of the cover price in the bookstore, and new books are usually far cheaper than used books at the bookstore. You can usually get softcover versions of your texts too, and save additional money. As a general rule, older editions seem to be half the price of the next newest. Ask your professor if you’re worried, but I’m a fourth year science student who’s never had to buy a newest-edition title.

TL;DR: Don’t buy anything at the bookstore unless you have to, buy used books from students or online.

Q :It’s Friday, what should I do?

A: PARTIERS

If you’re in the first group, and like to get dicked on a Friday night, I barely feel like I need to answer this question. It’s so easy to find a party at StFX.

The Pub will be calling your name with its steady rhythm, cold liquor, dirty dancing, filthy bathrooms, and constant beer stench. The feeling of standing in a lineup on a way-too-cold night waiting to dance on top of speakers or find someone to walk home with will be a familiar feeling. Pros: Loud music, lots of dancing, no shits given, and shots. Cons: Completely intolerable unless hammered, horrible music unless you’re still a teenage girl, and the sweaty circle of dudes surrounding the dance floor is a constant presence.

If you’re not down for the club scene, you can go to the Inn for Wing night or a chill drink most other nights, or for the concerts and DJs that frequent the Inn’s Friday and Saturday nights. Pros: In a year, you’ll probably know 80% of the people here. It has better music than the Pub most of the time, and it’s possible to hold a conversation. Wing night is the best time, and open mic lets you hear Wagon Wheel as much as your heart could ever desire and then some. Also, there’s pool. I love pool. Cons: adequate lighting, making the embarrassing moments the Pub allows a little more visible. Sometimes the lineup is devastating between 9 and 11, and you’ll probably stand in the lineup from 9 till 11.

There’s another option relatively new to the ‘Nish- the Split Crow. If you want something awesome, head to Too Drunk To Funk on September 20th at Splitty’s- always a good spot for a live show. Pros: The best music out of all three venues, most of the time. Antigonish’s best beer selection by far (At last count, over 30 draughts on tap). Cons: Hit and miss- some nights are pretty low-key. Talk to one of the bartenders or like them on Facebook to find out what’s going on up there.

If you just feel like drinking and playing pool, you’ve got Dooly’s. I love pool. You can rent a table for the night. They usually have deals on and always have cheap pitchers.

Pros: There’s pool and liquor. Cons: If you don’t like pool or liquor, there’s not much else.

If you feel like staying in, your residence will most likely have something crazy going on. They’ve been cranking down on the in-residence party atmosphere here for the last few years, but as every student can agree, they can’t stop it. So remember your residence is your only chance to live the Animal House life, and give’er. You can transfer to MacIsaac if you really want to go the full nine yards in this direction. The other residences also know how to party. MacIsaac just brings it up a notch. (Full disclosure: I lived in MacIsaac. More full disclosure: It’s the rowdiest house.)

House parties: Goes without saying, they get massive here. Keep an ear out, and you’ll hear about some great ones.

CHILLERS:

If you’re not a partier, your Friday night plans are a little less obvious. This can feel kind of isolating sometimes, since it seems like everyone is partying all the time here.

This isn’t the case, a lot of people will be in your same boat. Find these people. I’ve alternated back and forth between these two groups here. A lot of the time I just feel like chilling. I guarantee that not everyone on your floor or in your house will want to go out each night. Let it be known in advance that you feel like watching a movie, gaming, smoking a bowl, playing Catan or cards, making a fort, or painting or jamming or whatever, and talk to the people on your floor- you’d be surprised. One of my best friends I met in first year never drank, and has had one of the best university experiences out of everyone I know. She built a lot of forts in first year. University isn`t just about drinking, it`s also about finding out what you like to do. Maybe you don’t like forts, but you might like playing music. Find other people who want to spend their nights like you do. There’s almost 5000 people here, you’ll find them. My advice to group two isn’t as straight-shot as it was to the partiers. You guys will have to put some effort in to find alternate activities. I had some friends who would go to the Legion on a Friday night and play music with the locals. Or you could become a radio DJ or employee and hang out in the Station with Station Manager Rory MacLeod and whoever else is around. Or you could start a D&D group. There’s also a bowling alley here. Or you could hit the middle ground and play pool. There are a whole bunch of things to do here that don`t involve clubbing. Don`t worry if you don`t feel like doing it. But- I do recommend getting out once in a while, because it is a good way to meet people around here. There are a lot of good people from both groups; it pays to get to know both kinds.

TL;DR: If you like to party all the time, party all the time. If you don’t, university is a great time to find people to do fun stuff with, and find fun things to do. Not everyone parties all the time.

3

4 NEWS

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

Tips from your Professors A Q&A with some of our, and soon to be your own, favourite professors at StFX CASSIA TREMBLAY | Staff Writer

Questions Q1: What tip would you give to first years for achieving success in academics?

Q2: What is something that most first year students don't expect about university classes?

Answers: Nursing Favorite: Dr. Charmaine McPherson A1: Get into the work right away...the fun starts as soon as you arrive so make sure that school work starts as soon as classes begin. This #1 mistake that many first years make is in fumbling with course work and expectations until midterms - at that point you are too far along to easily recover from lack of work and focus. There is planet of time for both fun AND regular class work.

A2: Many first year students are surprised with the amount of reading that is required to PREPARE for classes. That is, you need to keep up with your readings and do them BEFORE you go to class. You will get way more out of the class and be

able to more actively participate in the discussion. It is difficult to do the readings for a particular class after the fact and then you're behind the 8-ball for the next class.

Human Kinetics Favorite: Dr. Angie Kolen A1: Go to class! Seriously, if you are not there, you will not know what was said or how it was said. When you go to class - make sure you are really there! You must choose to pay attention. Listen, really listen. Participate in discussions when asked. Ask questions when you have the opportunity. Bring a water bottle - if you are tired, sipping water may help.

A2: You only get as much out of class as you put into it!

You will not be told 'what' or 'how' to think. Memorization does not reflect learning.

Business Favorite: Mark MacIsaac, A1: Practice self- discipline. Developing and sticking to a well-thought-out, consistent study routine is a big driver of success. Beyond that, come to class, ask questions, and seek help

when you need it.Good luck and have fun.

Science Favorite: Dr. Russell Wyeth A1: In All faculties time management is the first thing students need to master.

Many students like to play hard while at university.

However, to succeed academically, you also need to work hard. They key to ensuringboth can happen is managing your time, so that play doesn't interfere with work (and vice versa).

A2:In Sciences.... the amount of time required often surprises students. Most academically successful students put in 3 hours outside of class for every hour in class. With a course load of 5 lectures and 3 labs, that's more than 20 hours inclass per week, which means more than 60 hours outside of class! Being a student is more than a full time job.

Engineering Favorite: Dr. Martin van Bommel A1: Attend all classes, review the material outside of class, do the practice

exercises, and go to the professor to ask for help when stumped by a problem or not understanding the material. The professors are more than willing to help, as long as you are putting forth your best efforts.

A2: The professors are not going to follow your daily progress as closely as in high school. We are not responsible for your work ethic, you are.

Arts Favorite: Dr. Rachel Hurst A1: It's okay to ask LOTS of questions - profs don't ask if you have any questions just to hear the crickets chirp! If you are wondering about how to use the syllabus, where to find a reading, or what the #%@$ that reading was about, ask! Chances are at least one other person wants to know, too. I won't say that "there's no such thing as a dumb question," because that's not true (sorry!), but the good news is that when someone asks one it's often funny, lightens the mood in the room, and helps us bond together as a community of learners. We learn

more when we take risks and make ourselves vulnerable - and remember that this is just as true for professors as it is for students.

A2: All students struggle with time management, but for first year students fresh out of high school it is especially challenging. I speak from experience when I say that the freedom is intoxicating! I tell my students that they should expect to do at least 3-4 hours of work outside of the classroom for every hour we spend in the classroom. This means that if you are doing a full course load, just preparing for class is a full-time job - and then on top of that you need to do still go to class,play your sport(s)/work out, be involved in your campus/community organizations, spend time with your friends/partner/family, and work your part-time job! I recommend blocking time off to do your work, because that means you will really have fun when you are not working because you are not thinking "I should be working..."!

How to succeed at X without really trying Tips and tricks to get through Life ‘Round Here CASSIA TREMBLAY | Staff Writer

You can't. I hate to break it to you, but this is the big leagues now and you're going to have to try a little bit. If you're lucky though, it won't feel like you're trying. A successful year at university means something a little different to everyone, but it should include some combination of extracurricular activities, social activities and academics.

The only real trick to succeeding at X, I think, is to keep up your good habits, sociability and involvement all throughout the year. If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, stop doing it- but make sure you try something else in its place!

Making friends So you're sitting with your house getting ready to go to a cheer-off, who do you start talking to? The best answer is as many people as you can. I'll be honest, in my first few days at X I chose people with brightly colored shoes to make friends with- so if I forgot the friendly face I was talking to, I could find the shoes. That sounds pathetic, I know, but it worked! Use mnemonic and visual tricks to help you remember your new pals. You're going to learn a lot of names, don't feel bad if you can't keep them straightnobody else can either. You’ll meet new best friends during Frosh Week and beyond, so keep an open mind and get

chatting! The more people you know across campus, the more fun you’ll have during the year.

Gettin’ Busy (No, that’s not what I mean) Getting involved in clubs and societies tends to be something all students intend to do, but few follow through with. X has a lot to offer so there's sure to be something for you. If you're not sure what you want to get involved in, have a chat with some older students (HPs, VPs, RAs etc.) and ask what societies they recommend. Some societies are very active and have lots of events and meetings, others don't. Decide what sort of time commitment you want

and ask around till you find a group that sounds like it fits.

In order to avoid dreading every society event, join something that sounds fun to you! Don’t join up just because your roommate is or else those events will really feel like you’re trying. And don't be scared to try something new!

Society Night is a beautiful and overwhelming thingtread carefully. Try to make a list of 5 or fewer societies you're interested in and only write down your email for those few. Signing up for every other society might lead to way too many emails to sort through, you won't end up reading any of them and, consequently, won't be active

in any societies. Now the only thing left is to actually show up to events. This step is crucial and highly recommended. Societies are a great way to meet new people, help the community and build you're resume all at the same time.

Academics Finally, what we all (supposedly) came to X for, academics. To be honest, you can probably figure out how to do well in classes on your own: do the practice questions, study, don’t procrastinate, etc., etc., etc. Hopefully you love what you’re taking and you won’t mind the work.

If that isn’t the case, don’t despair.

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OPINIONS 5

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

OPINIONS The In’s and Out’s of Safe Sex

Love is in the air but before you take the plunge, here’s a few things to consider EMILY MACGREGOR | Opinions Editor

Love is in the air this September on the StFX campus. You can find it in the dark corners of the Angus L. MacDonald library—which, if we’re honest, we wont enter until the crunch of midterms—to the bustling halls of the Students’ Union Building. But more than any place, you can find the love behind the closed doors of residence rooms.

It’s an entirely new experience—independence from helicopter parents, classes that don’t start until lunchtime and most exiting of all: living in extremely close quarters with guys and gals who are just as ‘excited’ as you. It’s a time to live! Get out! Meet new people! Make new friends! And if you feel the urge, take that special someone for home for some lovin’.

We’ve all heard the same things from our parents and public health nurses: practice safe sex. While it might have been a foreign and awkward concept in junior high, sex is everywhere in university. So before you take the plunge, here are some things to keep in mind, to protect both yourself and your partner.

The Night Of Dr. Emily Rice, a physician at the Students’ Clinic located on the 3rd floor of the Students’ Union Building, has some advice for those who are sexually active: even if you’re caught up in the moment, remember to be safe. To prevent the spread of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), condoms are recommend-

ed and encouraged. ‘No glove, no love’ should be your mantra, because wearing condom will help protect your from pesky unwelcome visitors. Keep in mind though, condoms are not 100% effective. “80% would be high” for how effective condoms are, says Dr. Rice. However, we’re human and so we make mistakes. Do your best, wear a rubber and hopefully you’ll sail through university infection-free.

STIs and Getting Tested Nothing bursts the bubble of that first-year glow like finding out you have contracted an STI. If you’re noticing something a little strange, or you’re just trying to be cautious, and it’s time to visit your friendly neighbourhood health clinic for a check-up.

Getting tested for STIs is crucial for practicing safe sex. It may be awkward— after all, a stranger is getting up-close and personal with your most private parts without buying you dinner first - but the peace of mind in receiving negative results is worth the effort. The on-campus clinic can test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, though keep in mind the procedure is different; for men is as simple as peeing in a cup, whereas women require a vaginal swab. The test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be done when a patient is asymptomatic, meaning they’re not showing symptoms. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for a test; it’s better safe than sorry!

Testing for syphilis, herpes, Hepatitis B and C, and HIV requires a blood test, and is not carried out at the on-campus clinic. What to do if you want the test: go to a doctor, get the requisition form specifying which tests you want, and then visit the hospital to get the blood test. Herpes and syphilis are “friends for life,” as Dr. Rice put it, and so getting treatment as soon as possible will keep you healthy.

Pap Tests Pap tests check the cervix for abnormal cells, which could later develop into cancerous cells. While Pap tests are only for the ladies, everyone should be aware of how it works. The guidelines for Pap tests have recently changed, changing the frequency of tests. Women should be getting tested at whichever date comes later: your 21st birthday, or three years after becoming sexually active. This means if you haven’t had sex until you’re 19, you don’t need to be tested until you’re 22. After your first couple tests, if there are no abnormal changes then you should be checked every two years.

Contraceptives We know the stork myth is a lie; after all, we weren’t found swaddled on a doorstop with a lanky bird flying off in the distance. Contraceptives will help protect against unwanted pregnancy, and are extremely effective. When taken correctly, birth control is 98.9% effective

at preventing pregnancy. If you’re not taking birth control, or you’re looking for a change, there are multiple kinds of contraceptive. An oral pill, taken each day, is covered by most drug plans and is a common method of birth control. There is also the patch, which you wear 3 weeks on and 1 week off, changing the patch each week. The Nuvaring is inserted like a tampon though much more discreet, and can be worn during sex. The Nuvaring and the patch are similar in that the body absorbs the hormones over time. An IUD, Intra-urinary device, requires insertion by a physician and is effective for 5 years.

However, there is an upfront cost, which varies depending on coverage my medical insurance.

If you’re considering a contraceptive, talk to your doctor about which form of birth control is best suited to your lifestyle and your body.

Talking about STIs and contraceptives is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sexual health. The thing to remember is that protecting yourself, any all partners you may have, is a priority. Websites such as sexaulityandu.ca are useful if you want to do some independent research. If and when you need it, the professionals at the on-campus clinic can be reached at (902) 867-2263. It’s open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 4:00, so between meal hall and your 2:15 lecture you can pop in for a chat!

Welcome to the Xaverian family Things to know about the week that will change your life SEAN MCEVOY | Editor-in-Chief

Welcome to the family. Really what other word can best describe what you're about to enter into? A cult? Maybe, but they would never put that in the welcome brochures. Speaking from experience, if StFX is a cult it's the nicest( and hopefully only?) one you'll ever be a part of. But seriously, this week you will meet countless lifelong friends, whether it's your roommate, somebody you meet at Playfair or Matt Mays, or somebody you're grinding on during the Beach Party. So if you're reading this on Day 1 and you're feeling nervous, scared or alone, hang in there because in no time you'll be meeting so many amazing people that you'll need to make a list of names to add on Facebook later. Now without further ado, here's some tips and points of information to bear in mind as the week goes on.

Our New President As part of the incoming class of 2014, you will be some of the first frosh to shake the hand of our new StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald. It's his first day of school too, so you already have something in common. If you're bummed out that you just missed out on his legendary predecessor Dr. Sean Riley, never fear, MacDon-

ald is already making positive waves on campus with his open and warm personality. You may even be seeing his writing in The Xaverian this year. Also he's a must follow on Twitter @kentmacdonald.

O-Crew The crazy people in pink will be some of your best friends this week. They're not only there to welcome you to the family and get you amped up to be a Xaverian, they'll also be your tour guides and ones to go to with any questions you have. Lost on campus or not sure when Meal Hall opens? Find a person in pink and they'll be able to help you out.

Leave Your Doors Open Don't be that frosh that nobody ever see's in residence the whole week because they never come out of their room or they never leave the door open. Having an open door policy for yourself signals to the world that you're open for business so to speak. Over the first week you'll be more likely to become fast friends with your neighbours down the hall if it looks like you're open to striking up some conversations. On that note...

Get Out of Your Room You're new in what can admittedly be a

scary environment coming from your home town comfort zone. You may be battling some home sickness and it can be tempting to shut the world away, lay in bed and watch Netflix. Don't do it! Go to as many events as you can, go out of your comfort zone, explore the town and campus. There's always something going on for everyone, and believe me when I say you'll regret the things you didn't do so much more then the things you did.

Even if you're not feeling particularly social, enjoy the quiet areas of town, or take a walk up to The Landing to enjoy some nature. Oh and GO TO PLAYFAIR! Even if you think it sounds lame from the description on your frosh schedule, it often turns out to be the one frosh remember the most.

Stay Hydrated This tip may seem silly initially but it's essential. Frosh week will take its toll on you from the sheer amount of fun you'll be having, and you may tend to forget to look after yourself. Activities from the early morning till late at night will have you sweating, not to mention the significant amounts of alcohol you'll likely be consuming. So fill up your water bottles, and

have plenty of G2's lined up by your bedside for those hung over mornings.

Know Your Limits Frosh week for many people is there first real experience with alcohol and particularly binge drinking. Don't feel pressured to keep up with your friends drinking habits, or out drink your roommate. Do what you're comfortable with and know your own limits. Whether that's ten drinks, five, two, or staying sober, just do you. People appreciate authenticity.

Kindness goes a long way To quote an article from last year's frosh issue which still and always will be true, "Douchebags don't do well here". If you want to be popular and have a big friend group ,drop your ego at the KMC doors and open up yourself to the diversity of people that you're about to meet.

Xaverians come in all shapes and sizes and you can learn something from every single one. See a loner? Go up and talk to them. Sometimes the smallest of gestures have the biggest impact on people. You may have just convinced them to not drop out and go back home. All in all however, be prepared to meet people you'll wish you had known since Grade 1.

6 OPINIONS

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

Sex with an X

BANG BANG: How to have sex at StFX LAURA O’BRIEN | Sex Columnist

At university, and most especially in your undergrad, sex is always the hottest topic.

Whether you’re having it or not, the subject is impossible to ignore, from academic discussions in classes to late night chats with your best friends.

And as you eye that hottie in meal hall, hookup with RA in secret, or fall madly in love with your best friend, sex and romance are driving forces of being young and independent in university. Many students who are starting their undergrad are well versed in the horizontal shuffle, but at the same time many of you are just beginning your understanding of romance, sex, and how exactly those two fit together.

The good news is, no matter what your level of experience is, you’ve come to the right place. StFX is a small little university with big potential, from long-term relationships to one night stands, or wherever you’re looking for on the scale.

The reason it’s important to know this is because frosh week may have you convinced otherwise. The writhing,

drunk, sweaty dance parties that you will experience night after night are well-known to the be the downfall of many a long-distance high school relationship, and the beginnings of awkward nights fighting with your roommate over who is getting the room and who is getting sexiled to the couches in the lounge. But what’s most important to realize is that frosh week is only the beginning of your years here, and what you thought was going to be a one-night-only extravaganza after the East Coast Kitchen Party can turn into a year of awkward eye contact in psych class, or an never-going-anywhere flirtationship with your across-the-hall neighbour. And while yes, sometimes a onenight stand really can be for just one night, more often than not at this lovely little school you will get to know just about all the faces here, and it’s up to you how many of their naked bodies you know as well.

But there is just as much opportunity for love here as their is for unattached sex,

and you really never know who will tug at your heartstrings, or that the sex will be so good you fall madly in love (it’s absolutely possible).

However, love and sex at StFX are only one side of the coin. The other side is that this school is filled with amazing people, and you are now one of them. Here, you can fall in love with a whole campus, an adorable town, or a residence floor full of best friends. It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for in the love/ sex department, or even if you’re looking at all. Because at X, it’s more than just finding that no-strings attached cuddle buddy; it’s about finding lifelong friends, an education you can feel proud of, and lastly, about finding out who you truly are. So whether you’re a raging sex maniac, a virgin, someone’s high school sweetheart, or anywhere in between, congrats, you’ve arrived! X marks the spot of the next best years of your lives, and frosh week is only the beginning. Stay safe, stay sexy, and have fun!

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OPINIONS 7

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

Antigonish Frosh Hot Spots A Frosh Guide for Eating, Drinking and All Around Chillin’ DEVON GREENE | Culture Editor

It’s no secret that campus life can consume students, especially when they are unfamiliar with the town of Antigonish. Between living in residence, going to class and eating at meal hall it is easy to get sucked into the vicious cycle of never venturing off-campus.

Leaving the boundaries of StFX may feel like a huge excursion, but it is well worth it for a brief escape. The great thing about Antigonish is that it is a very pedestrian friendly town. Most of the best places are within walking distance, which is perfectly suited to the carless, student lifestyle. Here are some of the top picks for hot spots to escape to off campus:

The Tall and Small- A favourite spot among many students and community members alike. The Tall and Small is located on Main Street, a stone’s throw away from the post office.

The little café has always been welcoming to students, serving a variety of hot beverages to keep you alert during class, and is a great spot to grab lunch or a snack. It also has a laid back atmosphere which is great for studying when you need a break from the library or the SUB.

Little Chirsto’s- This might just be the cutest restaurant in Antigonish.

The staff are friendly and the location, just down the street from the Tall and Small, is the perfect distance to enjoy a short walk from campus. If you’re

looking for gluten free options in Antigonish, this is your place. A large portion of the menu is offered with a gluten free option. Family owned and cooking most recipes from scratch, this place is absolutely charming, not to mention the food is great! It’s certainly a nice change from eating at meal hall, day after day for the next year.

Piper’s Pub- During the academic year, this bar is normally filled with so many students, that it’s hard to believe it’s not a second campus bar. It’s also so close to campus even the drunkest people can stumble over there without getting lost or falling over.

However, it is still trip off campus where you can have real interactions with people besides students for a changealthough we do tend to monopolize the space. The occasional theme night and consistent flow of alcohol draws in students as well as community members, and puts everyone on an equally drunk playing field. What better way to bond than over a hazy high school dance party?

The Wheel- There are some mixed feelings about which pizza place has the best slice in town, but no matter which kind you prefer to eat, you have to admit there is something special about going to The Wheel. It’s not just the greasy food that gets you through your drunkest walks home or your most stressful all-nighters, it’s the tradition. It

has been here to see generations of students through good times and bad.

Old and recent photos hung from the walls create a time line of StFX students and townies indulging in one of Antigonish’s most beloved pizza places.

Students come and go with the four year turn over, but The Wheel has remained constant through it all.

Alumni from the 70’s claim that it has remained unchanged for the most part, bringing them back to their own university years. It’s not just about going down the street for a slice of pizza or a donair, it’s about going back in time. You can just imagine students from your parents’ generation sitting around the tables trying to escape from campus life, just like you. The Wheel is just as much about the experience as it is the food. Besides, anything hits the spot at 3am.

X-Burger- Finally, some late night drunk food that isn’t pizza! Before X-Burger opened on Main Street, if you weren’t willing to venture all the way to Subway, you were pretty much limited to pizza places for late night drunk food or a study break. This place also fits into the time traveling restaurant theme, but not because it has been there since the days of St. Francis himself. The old fashion diner style of the restaurant makes you feel like it has always been part of the little town, even though it only opened a couple sum-

mers ago. Clearly catered towards students, the late hours on the weekend make it a viable option for late night, post party grub. But the food served there is too good to be passed up during the hours of the day when you might actually remember what it tasted like.

Not only is the food fantastic, but they have the best freshly squeezed orange juice to wash it all down. Definitely worth a stop in for lunch, supper, or even on the way home from the pub.

The Landing- This is a place of no drinking, no eating, no spending money of any kind. Just a place to relax, get some fresh air and take in the scenery. This haven can be found by following Main Street all the way down towards the hospital and continuing onto Bay Street. Most students have used it as a getaway spot and one point or another, so do a little asking around and it won’t be long until you find your way down there. It’s a little bit of a walk but not too far- the perfect distance to get a little fresh are and exercise. It’s peaceful and serene, which is a much needed contrast to busy campus life.

Antigonish certainly has a reputation for being just a university town, but the town itself has a lot to offer students.

Getting to know the town early on during your four years at X will make it seem more like home and allow you to get the most out of your time here. Go out and explore!

Photo’s by Clayton Blagdon

Follow us on Twitter: @xaverianweekly

8 FEATURE

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

StFX Frosh 2014, there are SO many new and interesting things to do here on campus and in the community.I challenge you to keep this newspaper for the duration of the year and check off every task as you complete it. Bonus points for capturing each with a photo!

Good luck!

1.

Meet Dr. Kent MacDonald

26.

Take a fitness class at the KMC

2.

Participate in a residence cheer off

27.

Go to a performance at the Bauer Theatre

3.

O CREW SELFIE

28.

RITA WRAPS

4.

Join a society on Society Night

29.

Go to a house hockey cup that isn't your

5.

Meet someone from each residence

6.

Attend a party in each residence

30.

Go to your own hockey cup too

7.

Meet the second year’s in res

31.

Ask/answer a question/make a comment in

8.

Have a slice from The Wheel

9.

Have a slice from Kennys

32.

Watch a men's basketball game

10.

Try Snappy Tomato’s garlic fingers

33.

Watch a women's basketball game

11.

POWER HOUR *clap clap clap clap clap*

34.

Get “Spotted”

12.

Make a Homecoming tie dye shirt

35.

Call your mom; seriously, she misses you

13.

Cheer on the X-Men football team at Homecoming

36.

Skype your high school friends – they miss

14.

Visit “The Landing”

15.

Study on all four floors of the library (bonus points for the basement)

own

each of your subjects

you too 37.

Attend Two Year's Eve

38.

Visit the Dog Den

16.

Visit Wellspring (and get cookies!)

39.

See a movie in the Antigonish cinema

17.

Check out the haunted halls of the Mount. Lookout

40.

SUNDAE SUNDAY

for the Blue Nun!

41.

Watch the X-Ring ceremony

Get Retweeted by the official university twitter

42.

Selfie with a MacNeil tat

account (@StFXUniversity)

43.

“Party hop” (multiple off campus parties in

18.

19.

20.

21.

Selfie with Saint Frank (the white statue of St.

one night)

Francis Xavier in front of Bishop’s Hall)

44.

Try an X-Burger milkshake

Go to (and dress up for) Lane Hall’s first floor

45.

Watch and/or play intramural sports

Fridays

46.

Talk to your meal hall crush and confess

Meet Brandon Hamilton, StFX Students’ Union

your feelings (we all have one)

President

47.

Talk to a professor outside of class time

22.

Pull an all nighter

48.

Study in the PSC during exam time (harder

23.

Go to McDonald’s at 3AM during said all nighter

24.

Take a nap after said all nighter, you deserve it

49.

Go skating and/or swimming at the KMC

25.

Vote in the Students’ Union elections!

50.

Eat a steak from Mother Webbs

than it sounds)

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

9

10 CULTURE

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

CULTURE University relationships Making it work through the up’s and down’s with your significant other RACHEL REVOY | Senior Reporter

Whether you are arriving at X with your hometown sweetheart, going the distance, or falling in love on campus, each relationship will face challenges to truly test if it’s worth the effort. Making your romantic relationships work through university won’t always be flowers and hand holding, but some couples will find going the extra mile is worth it.

Long Distance Lover

You’ve heard it before, from virtually everyone, long distance relationships just don’t work. Let me be the one to tell you that it can. Of course the relationship can last. The important thing is to have an end goal in mind.

This doesn’t mean pledge to be together forever, but make sure you see yourselves together at some point in the future. Or else, what’ll it all be for? For instance, if your love is in your hometown, plan to go home and see them one weekend. Keep something there for you to mutually look forward too.

While you’re thinking of that special someone, don’t forget

to think about what you want from your university experience. For some, staying in a relationship and compromising the ability to experiment with other people will not be worth it. If you want to have the freedom to meet and have chemistry anywhere you go or the freedom to make out with that person you’re vibing with at the pub maybe staying in the relationship is not a good idea. In the end, you may regret missing out on that side of the university experience. If that’s what you want, accept it as early as possible to avoid further tension and confusion.

Trust is immensely important. You may claim to trust your significant other, but then you imagine the worst when they don’t answer a call. Trust is patience. Let them do their thing, and hopefully they’ll do the same for you. Make sure communication is there, but constant communication is unnecessary and will act as a crutch in your life. You need space to have a life. That life should not subsist of worrying about what your love is doing and who they’re doing it with. If they

are not deserving of that trust, and have proved that they are not, well they're probably not worthy of your time and effort.

On a positive note, it can work. You’ll know if the one you’re with is worth being with. University life can show you how important that relationship is, and it can strengthen your love and appreciation for one another. Just believe it will work, have a goal in mind, and make it work. I believe in you.

Coming to StFX With Your Hometown Sweetheart

Finally spending an immense amount of time with the person you’ve been going steady with will be extremely exciting.

Just make sure its not so exciting that it takes away from your university experience. Make sure you spend time with other people.

It may seem easy to spend all your free time with the person who already knows you and cares about you, but it’s essential that you create new relationships.

Join your own clubs, take classes that interest you,

make your own group of friends, and share all the new things you experience with your sweetheart by telling them about it. How boring will your relationship be if you spend every second together?

Be two different people, with two different lives, and come together at times to share aspects of your lives. A healthy relationship involves two people with separate interests.

Allow them to have their group of friends, and have your own.

Eventually a group of mutual friends will emerge, and that's wonderful, but keep a separate group of friends from your specific interests. Having your own friends will also be a blessing in case you and your partner break it off, then you won’t be left high and dry with mutual friends who have to pick a side. You’ll already have people on your side.

Budding Romance With A Fellow Xaverian

One of the most exciting aspect of the university experience is having the option to meet an attractive stranger around any

corner. That sounded slightly creepy, but lets assume they’re safe. So lets say you meet someone, lets say you have insane chemistry, and lets say it turns into more than a hook up.

Next thing you know you're texting, then you start planning a date. All your friends will gasp, since they thought romance was dead. But it’s not, it is alive and well. Now it’s in your life and you’re a little overwhelmed. It can be a beautiful thing, and yes people date in university. From some perspectives it seems that no one is interested in starting a relationship, but thats not the case.

Make sure that the relationship is not so distracting that your roommates and floormates are wondering what happened to you.

Keep your friends, and don’t be afraid to tell your new lover that you can’t be with them 24/7.

Romantic relationships should be a wonderful addition to your life, not a hinderance. Notice if the relationship is unhealthy, and leave once you notice it’s not the romance you imagined.

From Frosh to Fox at CFXU An inside look at the ‘Foxiest Station in the Nation’ DEVON GREENE | Culture Editor

University is a chance to reinvent yourself, try new things, get out of your comfort zone. StFX offers some pretty unique ways to get involved in extracurricular activities. CFXU the Fox, 93.3 FM, is the campus radio station, broadcasting through the airways of Antigonish and streaming online all over the world. There aren’t many high school students who have their own radio show, and, unless they work in radio, there aren’t many adults who do either.

CFXU offers the opportunity for anyone to host or co-host their own radio show. This unique opportunity is a great way to get involved on campus and has been truly life changing for many of those involved.

There are plenty of ways for students to get involved, and the Fox is always welcoming of new DJs. “No matter who you are or whatever media background you have, whatever music taste, don’t hesitate to get involved,” says Station Manager, Rory MacLeod.

MacLeod started his involvement with the station during society night of his frosh year. MaLeod has continued to host and co-host shows during his years at StFX and has worked as a music director for the station. Now, as the new Station Manager, MacLeod is excited about new developments for the Fox in the upcoming year.

“My vision for CFXU revolves around increased cooperation and participation from and between the campus and the community. I would like to see a CFXU that is more versatile, efficient and exciting. CFXU is a valued service for both the campus and community that provides access to new, interesting, local and Canadian music. It is also a place for participants to express themselves and be a forum for discussion, musical or otherwise.” MacLeod encourages any interested students to keep an eye out for CFXU at society night or contact program director Jessica Sharkey at cfxuprog@stfx. ca for more information about starting a show.

CFXU is known for being a welcoming and safe space for all students. Getting involved doesn’t just mean getting your own radio show, it also means becoming part of a community. CFXU takes care of its own, with a DJ society to ensure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. Mixers and parties are not unusual in the Fox family so it is a great way for frosh to get to know people they may have never otherwise met. Former frosh intern, Brennan Neve, feels that involvement at the Fox goes beyond simply having a show or going to parties. “For me, I’d say I don’t fit in well with the Frosh thing… CFXU was a good place to get into early on where I felt welcome.” The station has a nice, relaxed atmosphere where students hang out, do some homework and discover new music. The staff are friendly and helpful and love talking to new people about the station, music or whatever they are interested in.

CFXU can also be a learning experience, introducing

those involved to new experiences and teaching them new skills. “You end up doing all kinds of random things as a result [of getting involved], like helping out with events. Personally, I’ve had a joy of a time learning about all the tech equipment in the station,” says Neve who will continue his involvement with the station by working with the production side of things this year. Frosh interns are hired at the beginning of each year to help out at the station and a number of positions can be applied for at the end of each academic year for the following fall. Students who started off at CFXU have since gone on to further studies in broadcasting and become in further event planning for local musicians.

Having your own radio show is not the only way to be involved with the Fox. CFXU also hosts events at the Inn and shows throughout the year. These events are a chance to see local and Canadian artists in a variety of settings from folk music at the art

gallery, to rock at the Inn. The Fox also plans to expand its horizons this year by including a greater variety of genres, especially bringing the up and coming electronic music scene into the foreground. Media is always present at major shows and events, especially during frosh week, making the Fox a great way to have your voice heard. Business opportunities are also available with CFXU through promotions and advertising. By broadcasting through 93.3 and streaming online, CFXU reaches a wide range of students and community members, creating a large audience for advertisements and promotions.

CFXU works closely with Antigonish to support local businesses and promote community development.

The CFXU staff plans to make the relationship with the community even stronger throughout the upcoming year and continue the growth of the station.

CFXU is located on the 1st floor SUB next to the Campus Book Store and The Xaverian.

CULTURE 11

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

Golden X Inn: What it has to offer Your campus bar offers more than just wing nights you can’t remember

DEVON GREENE | Culture Editor

Over the years, the Golden X Inn has earned a reputation for being a place that truly embodies the StFX spirit, and in most people’s mind that means more than a couple of drinks. It is no secret that the party lifestyle is embraced by many Xavarians, and while Wing Night, Mug Club and your typical weekend at the Inn all cater nicely to that lifestyle, the Inn has more to offer than alcohol and short term memory loss. It can also be a place to meet new people, socialize in a friendly and welcoming environment and grab something to eat that isn’t from Morrison or Mini Moe’s.

One of the biggest draws of the Golden X Inn is the fact that it is a student bar. Knowing that everyone there is a StFX student or a guest of a student creates a little bit of a different atmosphere than at other bars around town. Chances are, if you’ve been around campus for a while, you are going to know a large group of people there, and you know that you have a least one thing in common with the ones you don’t know. Not only are the people there all students, there is a wide variety of students from all residences and programs. It gives you the opportunity to meet students you would never have otherwise met.

Meeting new people and expanding your social circle beyond the kids down the hall is essential to kickstarting your university experience. As a frosh, you should use every opportunity you can to meet new people and make new friends. The first couple months of the academic year is the time when it is the least awkward to say “hi” to a total stranger, ask them what program they’re in or find out where they are from. For those of you who are of the legal drinking age, buying a stranger a beer might be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

If a bar full of students and potential best friends isn’t enough to sway you towards the Inn, the live entertainment might. The Inn has

become known as a great place for bands and solo artists to perform on wing nights and the weekends. Putting yourself out there as someone new to campus will not only help other people to know who you are, but it will also help you familiarize yourself with the different things campus life has to offer and get to comfortable with the ins and outs of StFX. If you can get up on stage as a frosh and expose yourself and your musical talent for the student population, then you should have no trouble asking a question in class, or asking a classmate for help.

Along with encouraging student musicians to come out to perform, the Inn also brings in a variety of talent throughout the year.

Bar Services Manager for the Student’s Union, Pat O’Connell is excited about this year’s upcoming entertainment commenting, “we have some great events planned, and a few surprises too.” In the past there has been everyone from electronic DJ’s, to live local bands and well known artists like Joel Plaskett. The live entertainment creates a nice change from DJ’s playing the same remixes night after night accompanied by awkward dance floor

grinding. The performers create a fun, energetic atmosphere that sets it apart from other parties and bars. “It’s great having DJ’s too, but we are definitely a live music venue,” says O’Connell.

Little known fact: the Inn is not just a place for drinking. The Inn is open to all ages until 8pm, which means that for those underage members of the frosh class, you don’t have to miss out on the Inn experience. You can still be an underage performer at the bar by getting in touch with the staff at the Inn, and you can still get out and enjoy the entertainment before 8pm. Every once in a while, professors will come down to the Inn to grab a beer, and even hold informal question and answer sessions with the upper level courses. This can be a valuable opportunity to meet professors in a relaxed environment and make a more memorable impression than just another email address asking about the classes they teach.

The all ages hours creates common ground for students from frosh to senior students, and even the occasional professor. But what are you going to do if you can’t order a drink?

Eat! The Inn has a full kitchen with a

menu full of bar food that you can buy with your declining cash balance (DCB). DCB is the same system that can used at the Bloomfield cafeteria in the SUB and at mini Moe’s, expect at the Inn you can use it for nachos, fries, burgers, or anything else off the menu (no alcoholic beverages). But remember, you can’t use DCB to tip your server so bring some change to leave on the table. Servers are students too and they work hard! The kitchen is open at Wednesday to Friday at 5pm and remains an all ages space until 8pm, so it is a great way to escape from meal hall for a night but still stay on your student budget by using your DCB. The Inn will also be open during the afternoon for the home football games this year so you can watch the games from the patio!

Overall, the Inn creates an ideal student atmosphere to socialize, enjoy live entertainment and good food, and have a few drinks. For the underage students, there are still chances for you to get out and enjoy the Inn during the all ages hours, and don’t worry, you will have about three years of wing nights and mug club after you turn 19!

Want to survive? Listen close Academic survival tips to get through your frosh year

LAURA ALOISIO | Columnist

So you have just woken up for your first day of class. For most first year students, this experience includes a headache, slight disorientation and the strange feeling that someone needs to feed you. After realizing that no one is going to come to your aid you head to meal hall. There you are inspired and set your first college goal; leverage the all you can eat at one meal loophole in your meal plan. You smile knowing that someone in the bursar’s office will be spending the next four years wondering how feeding one student brought down the finances of the entire school. Setting goals and objectives is critical to success and the Xaverian thought it would be helpful to provided three simple tips to surviving

academics in your first year.

Due dates: The alignment of assignments, midterms and final exams will appear to have been designed to inflict the most stress.

Your first reaction will be to move your work start date up to a point that leaves more days to accomplish the task. This is a mistake as it supports procrastination and gives your future self a false sense of security. We recommend keeping a realistic working timeline and moving due dates up 2-3 days in your calendar. This gives you time at the back end of the assignment where most of the real work gets done.

All nighter’s: Frosh week and all nighters are part of the college experi-

ence and like the Jello slide, we do not recommend they become part of your weekly routine. However, if you have to stay up set your alarm for a 20 minute nap to jump start yourself.

Longer may seem better but by awakening in the middle of your sleep cycle you feel drowsy instead of refreshed. Drinking coffee may help but remember to eat high protein, low sugar snacks to prevent nausea and avoid the unwanted crash.

Find your quite place: Whether you choose to study in your room or the library, make sure to keep your workspace space clean and free of distractions. You may think that having music helps you study but belting out the lyrics to wrecking ball will not

make learning Shakespeare any easier.

Also, instead of checking Facebook while studying, use it as a reward during a scheduled study break keeping the time limited to 7 – 10 minutes.

Most importantly you need to be objective about what really works.

Don’t try and follow a friend’s strategy but instead make your study habits your own. Over time you will adapt your approach to what works best for you and that’s all that matters. Don’t be discouraged, it’s going to take time to find out how to adjust to the university but soon enough you will be able to navigate your way through it all.

Besides, you always have your meal hall plan to fall back on.

12 CULTURE

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

Theatre Antigonish 2014/15 Season Theatre Antigonish returns for its 40th season at the Bauer with something for everybody SEPTEMBER 25 & 26 WE COULDN’T AGREE ON A SCRIPT! A big hit at last season’s One Act Play Festival, The Antigonish Improv Group return with their very own hilarious mix of theatrical mayhem.

OCTOBER 23, 24, 25 & 26.

JACQUES BREL IS ALIVE AND WELL AND LIVING IN PARIS A Musical Revue Of The Songs Of Jacques Brel With English Lyrics by Eric Blau& Mort Shuman The statement in the title is no longer true, but the exquisite songs of Belgian-born singer-songwriter Jacques Brel (1929–1978) live on in this hit Broadway compilation... haunting...dramatic...poetic.

NOVEMBER20, 21, 22 &23.

Mary Shelley’s FRANKENSTEIN Adapted by Dorothy Louise Innocent but grotesque, thrust into a cruel, inhospitable universe, Frankenstein’s creature exacts terrible vengeance….a thrillingly faithful version of Mary Shelley’s gothic tale FEBRUARY 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 &17.

CHARLEY’S AUNT

by Brandon Thomas Dragged unwillingly into skirts to impersonate a fellow undergraduate's widowed Brazilian aunt, Lord FancourtBabberley soon finds himself

warming to the role and comic confusion reigns supreme. A classic farce to dispel the winter blahs!

MARCH 12, 13, 14 & 15.

ONE ACT PLAY FESTIVAL This annual event is open to theatre groups and individual performers from on or off campus and offers a wide variety of entertainment with a different program of presentations each night.

WATCH OUT FOR COMING ANNOUNCEMENTS OF DATES FOR: FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE! Occasional cabaret evenings in the relaxed atmosphere of the Bauer Green Room.

IMPROV NIGHTS You can join in these weekly sessions to explore the fun and techniques of improvisation – all are welcome.

AUDITIONS Auditions forJacques Brel Is Alive And Well And Living In Pariswill be held from6.30 to 9 pm on Thursday, September 11thand 12 noon to 2.30 on Saturday, September 13th.

These are group workshops.

Please prepare a song and be available for the whole session.

Piano accompaniment will be provided. Rehearsals begin week of Monday, September 15th.

Auditions for Frankenstein

will be held from 6.30 to 9 pm on Thursday,September 19th and from 12 noon to 2.30 pm on Saturday, September 20th.

Rehearsals begin week of Monday October 20th. These are group workshops. Please prepare a monologue and be available for the whole session.

September 16th VOLUNTEER MEET & GREET Theatre Antigonish welcomes volunteers to work on all aspects of our productions: stage management, props, lighting & sound, wardrobe, box office, publicity, media liaison. If you’re looking for a hands-on theatre experience and want to develop your skills or discover new ones, please join us for coffee on Monday, September 16th at 6:30pm in the Bauer Green Room & Lounge.

For Theatre Antigonish: ED THOMASON – Artistic Director 867 3938 or ethomaso@stfx. ca IAN PYGOTT – Technical Director 867 2264 or ipygott@stfx.ca TINA DICKIESON – Theatre Manager 867 4539 or tdickie@stfx.ca JACKLYN GELDART – ADMIN ASSISTANT 867 3954 or jgeldart@stfx.ca

Via Flickr Creative Commons

Do you ‘Come from away?’

A first timers survival guide to your new home province of Nova Scotia LINDSAY JOHNSTONE| Staff Writer

So, you just moved into your residence, you know absolutely nobody in this province, and you have just been abandoned by your parental units. Fasten your seat belts froshies, because this is just the beginning of your X adventures. If you’re a CFA (Come From Away), that’s anybody from somewhere else, then you will find a few tips to orient yourself to a whole new way of life.

First of all, this province has a culture like no other; with our super friendly people, our energetic traditional music, and our unique accent from the rest of Canada, you are bound to have a good time here, -especially in the “Nish”, which is where the heart of it all is.

So let’s learn a few key words you will need to know for your Scotian adventure. Let’s start with the town you will be living in.

After all, you will be calling “Antigonish” home. So this is how you giver’: this place is Anti-gonish. Pretty simple eh? And try to say it so it really comes out all in one breath and each syllable is roughly the same emphasis as the others: Anti-go-nish. And do be careful, -it is NOT An – Tig O nish. Otherwise, the Scotian’s are gonna laugh their socks off.

So as you settle in, keep your ears open; it’s “Listen and Learn time”. And of course, it is not just unusual place names, we are independent here and we have our own pronunciation of many ordinary words. If you find yourself looking to start a conversation; find a Nova Scotian (or a Cape Bretoner is even better, that is part of Nova Scotia too, with even stronger accents) and make sure to include the words “car”, “tour”, and “about” in your convo. If you come from away,

chances are very good you will hear how to really pronounce car, tour, and about, from your local friends. (Hint: try “Carrgh” (almost two syllables), Toeur (again, almost two syllables), A-Boot (definitely two syllables!)

There you go…now you have the perfect conversation starter.

You’ll find out why these words are essential to incorporate in your convo once you get started.

It is always a good conversation starter to keep in your back pocket and it is sure to bring out many laughs, and some questions about where you’re from!

Driving is different here. Be warned: people will stop in the middle of the street to talk to each other, WHILE THEY ARE IN DIFFERENT CARS! And they stop for pedestrians that aren’t even in crosswalks!

And just for the record, the Bluenose is named after us, we

aren’t named after it. Back in the day, fishermen used to wear big homemade woolen mittens and blue was a common dye used to brighten them up. Out on a cold day on the north Atlantic, you’d wipe your nose, and voila! We are proud to call ourselves Bluenosers.

Now what if you get invited to a Kay-lee? This is good, you are making progress! A ceilidh is an informal gathering, a party where most people play an instrument, there will be drinking and singing, and you’ll probably all end up in the kitchen. At a really good ceilidh, it gets dark at least twice.

So your cultural experience should be broadened to include some of the local delicacies. We have umpteen kinds of seafood here, but we also have this thing called a donair (Dough Nair).

Have you heard of it? It’s an amazing yummy thing you must

try! You will be addicted in no time, just be careful to count the calories…nah… on second thought, don’t bother because you’ll lose count since there are so many. A donair is almost all meat, it is not for the veggie crowd, but it has been cited as a basic university survival food, credited with fueling both exams and essays.

Survival Tip: the waitress who takes your donair order might call you “dear”, don’t misunderstand.

Everyone will call you “dear”.

They are just being friendly.

Okay, so now you’re all set there buddy, you can unfasten your seatbelt, and get yourself settled in our magnificent ocean playground. We’re sorry for all of the other provinces who don’t get a free ocean view, but you’ve solved that little problem.

Congrats, you are officially an Honorary Nova Scotian.

DISTRACTIONS 13

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

DISTRACTIONS KURT BROTHERS | Distractions Editor

Antigonish X rated

Spotted’s Say: An introduction to Spotted at StFX Hello froshies!

First off, welcome to X. I’m sure you have already heard of the ‘Spotted at StFX’ page, and if you haven’t, here’s what it is. It’s a page that was created in hopes of bringing a sense of community within the university (as if there wasn’t enough of it already). It’s a page where you can write a post anonymously to the page, which gets posted by me for the whole student population to see.

Some posts are hilarious, some are educational, and some are inspiring. This page has made me even more aware of how amazing our campus & student population really are. Yes- we like our beer, but we also look out for one another and the entire Antigonish community. This page lets you live vicariously through people’s wild drunken

Get X-cited frosh 2014! The countdown is over, and soon you’ll be living in a new home, and let me tell you, it’ a great one. From meal hall crushes to embarrassing rez stories, each of you will have your own StFX life that all begins now. And it starts with an amazing party, that being frosh week.

Three ye6ars ago I stepped onto this campus for the first time, a fresh frosh shirt on my back and a bag of alcohol in my hand. I thought frosh week was all about constant partying and an endless supply of liquor. And for me this was mostly true. But what

nights, or relate to one’s stresses through exam season. Last year, there were posts about mysterious kayaks, Karen and her chair, Wednesday blizzards, and so much more.

Here’s to another year filled with lots of blurry nights, meal hall crushes & Xaverian spirit.

Sincerely,

really makes frosh week is the stories each of you will have by the end of the week. Sure, I had wild drunken times each night, but my most vivid memory is bonding with my residence at 2 am when we all decided to use a kettle to make kraft dinner. So make sure to take part in as much as possible,

Spotted

because Life ‘Round Here gets pretty memorable.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Meal Hall DO get creative at meal hall, because it tends to get old. Add goat cheese and pesto on your personal pizza, trust me.

DON’T go too early or too late, getting stuck in the morning rush sucks, and

being left with no food is even worse.

DO partake in Sunday sundae, because it’s the best day of the week.

DON’T leave the make your own pizza section unattended, or

Becca’s Blurb | Becca Lehman - ‘First Days at X’

By: Kurt Brothers

your masterpiece will be stolen.

DO take supplies for snack/ study time later, aka apples and cookies.

DON’T miss meal hall breakfast…ever. You’ll understand soon.

DO wait in line for stir fry from time to time, because it’s always worth it. However....

DON’T wait in line for the “sizzling caesar”. It’s hot beef on soggy lettuce, need I say more?

SPORTS AND HEALTH

SPORTS & HEALTH How to cheer at X

Rock the navy blue and white, bring the noise and keep classy with StFX Athletics AARON THORNELL | Sports & Health Editor

Premier undergraduate experience. As incoming Xaverians will surely have heard, this is what you’re in for at St. Francis Xavier. While nobody is quite sure what it actually means, this isn’t terribly important because as soon as you pick up your frosh kit, none of that matters. You are now part of the StFX cult.

This means many things. You should probably start talking about the X-Ring with your family and friends who aren’t familiar with the time-honoured tradition, because it is what most people refer to as “a big deal”. It is best to give in to the hype that surrounds the fabled ring, for there is no escaping it once you set foot on campus.

Alongside the X-Ring, new students at StFX can look forward to a warm relationship with the town of Antigonish (although this cools off slightly around events such as homecoming weekend), a close rapport with (most) faculty, and a strong sense of school spirit. The latter of these qualities can be seen in all its glory during the fine exhibitions of physical strength and athleticism put on by groups of brilliant, svelte young people: I am of course referring to the school’s

sports teams.

StFX has two categories of athletics that offer something for both the casual sports enthusiast and the diehard fanatic. The arguably better known of the two are the varsity teams. StFX boasts a number of varsity teams, including men’s and women’s soccer, hockey, basketball, cross-country running and track and field, women’s rugby and men’s football. Hockey and football remain the most popular of these sports, and they draw large crowds of students, faculty, and Antigonishers. The atmosphere at games can be quite entertaining, especially for big games like home-openers and on homecoming weekend. Both of these sports, in particular men’s hockey and football, have long histories at StFX, and have seen many future professionals pass through their locker rooms. Additionally, StFX will be co-hosting the 2015 CIS Men’s Hockey Finals, which will surely stir up some of the fervour surrounding the sport this season. Despite the popularity of these two teams, however, women’s rugby unequivocally holds the crown as the school’s strongest side in recent years.

The X-Women have claimed

the Atlantic University Sports (AUS) title every year since women’s rugby became recognized as a varsity sport.

Both soccer teams play an entertaining brand, and have began developing many young players last year, with the hopes of constructing everstronger sides for this season and beyond. StFX men’s cross-country team has won the AUS title three years running (pun!), and the women’s side brought home the honours in 2012. Both basketball teams made glorious, long runs into the AUS playoffs last year, and will hope to build on these successes in the coming season.

Club sports represent the lesser known side of StFX athletics. Teams such as men’s rugby possess a storied history, while others such as the school’s rowing and baseball teams are relative newcomers. The men’s rugby team has two sides, both of which offer a boisterous and amusing scene for spectators.

Rowing, baseball, lacrosse, and field hockey all put forward strong sides, and the accompanying cheerleading and dancers provide a great deal of entertainment, all the while showing well in competitions.

While these teams’ events are

somewhat less publicized than their varsity counterparts, when attended, they are bound to produce smiles and raucous support all round.

Now that you are aware of all the sports available at StFX, it’s time for a few tips on how to be a good fan.

1. First and foremost, get yourself some navy blue and white. Regardless of whether it’s a (slightly overpriced) shirt or jersey from the campus store, or a ratty old white t-shirt with some blue spray paint on it, as long as you are wearing those two colours, you will do well for yourself.

2. Prepare to get wet. Fall in the Maritimes, as many of you surely know already, is a time of significant precipitation. If you’re loyal to the schools teams, you’ll spend many wet afternoons and evenings of the cold wooden benches of Oland Stadium, but rest assured, the players will take note and appreciate your support.

3. Temper your expectations. You aren’t watching the Sportscenter Top Ten. Watching sports, at any level, requires patience, as there won’t always be something entertaining going on for the

casual fan. What makes university sports so engaging is that when you supporting your school team, you are supporting your classmates, residence neighbours and fellow students, people you will recognize from the line at meal hall or Mini Moe’s. There is nothing more fun than chanting the name of someone you saw buttering toast earlier that day.

4. Bring the noise (corny, I know). You will often find yourself in a less than packed stadium or arena, but that should not stop you from starting a good “Olé olé” or even a throwback “We will rock you”.

5. Ready your ears for the song “X Gon’ Give It To Ya”.

This fine track, performed by DMX, a lyricist better known in the early oughts than he is today, was released in 2003, yet you’ll be hard-pressed not to hear it at almost any X sporting event., The novelty of the song wore off after the first five to ten listens but it continues to be played. And played. And played. Learn the words and learn to love it, or at least tolerate it.

6. Win or lose - stay classy.

The men and women on the field will – so should everybody in the stands.

Photo by Clayton Blagdon

The Xaverian-Volume 123 Issue 1

SPORTS & HEALTH

15

Learning gym etiquette How to keep you and your fellow fitness fantatics happy over the school year AARON THORNELL | Sports & Health Editor

If you're like me, a good workout involves a nice bike ride or a leisurely stroll, followed by a big ol' pot of instant noodles. You gotta replenish those sodium levels. For those new students at StFX who are big on the whole “being healthy and active” fad that seems to be catching on these days, and my patent-pending workout and post-workout meal doesn’t strike your fancy, you're in luck – at least in regards to the being active bit. As most of you will have seen if you took a tour around campus, StFX's Keating Centre is home to a very respectable, if slightly small, gym, aptly known as the Wellness Centre. Given the aforementioned size, however, it is important to remember a few things to keep the Wellness Centre a welcome environment.

The most important thing you can do is to respect the size and stock of the gym. The Wellness Centre, which is free for all StFX students, is easily filled with students, faculty, and townspeople. It is crucial that you allow any and all to have access to the machines, free weights, and just general space, or else the place could quickly turn into a full-on UFC cage match.

What's more, when you are generous with your materials, others are sure to return the favour. One piece of equipment where this is especially essential is the bench press. As of last year, there was only one present in the Wellness Centre, and due to

its macho nature (I say this meaning no offence, before I am raged upon) it is an extremely popular fixture in the gym.

Another seemingly obvious yet oft forgotten tip is to keep the space clean.

Wiping off your machine or bench is essential, especially if you are one of those extremely hairy freshmen – I'm not judging you, I speak out of jealousy in fact. But seriously, there is nothing worse that seeing a big sweat stain on the machine you're about to jump onto. You'll also be thankful for this during the fun times that come with flu and cold season.

Prepare yourself for swells in attendance. Finding a time to get your swole on that is a little quieter is always nice. Prior to midday is a safe bet, as is later in the evening. The afternoons, particularly

on the weekends, can be extremely busy, launching you back into the throws of claustrophobia you thought you'd escaped from by coming to Antigonish. You'll see fluctuations throughout the year as well – the most notable of which is the postNew Year's surge in numbers. As a less-than-committed gym attendee, it is sometimes humorous to hear friends complain about this increase, although unfortunately, there isn't much to be done about it.

If you're someone who is easily embarrassed, bone up on your workout before hitting the gym. Some people will get so nervous they are doing a workout wrong, they will abandon their plan altogether. But remember that StFX is a friendly school full of friendly people. Don't

be afraid to ask questions to other gymgoers or staff, as most will be more than ready to lend a helping hand. Better to show your lack of knowledge than neglect your body. The same theory goes for spotting others. Be prepared to grab someone's wrists on a big shoulder press, and they will help you with that last face-breaker, so you don't, well, break your face.

While these may seem obvious to some, it is key to remember that some people in the gym will be hearing the words “traps” and “bosu ball” for the first time. So let's all be calm and helpful in the Wellness Centre this year – it will make everyone's life that much easier. Or you can just pay to go Goodlife, where you'll have all the space you could ever need.

The Hush-Hush: Mental Health and You First Year can often be a major challenge on the mental health of students

COLTAN THOMPSON | Columnist

Skimming through this Frosh week issue, you’ve probably encountered more than one account of how amazing your first year of University will be, how awesome StFX is, and ample reassurance that coming here was the best decision of your life. Meanwhile, invitation to the cult-of-awesome is extended to you through O-crew and the deindividuating—er, group-bonding activities of Frosh week.

Yet for all the morale-boosting, general celebration of this new phase of life, of leaving home and family to pursue higher education (admittedly, some of us have wandered here because attending university is what eighteen-year-old middle-classers do), who stopped to caution you of the psychological threats so commonly faced by people your—our—age? The numbers are clear: the mental-emotional challenges so ubiquitously faced by university age persons, particularly in first year, warrant awareness if not a blunt warning. The stressful uprooting of familiar home life can notoriously trigger latent mental health issues and a may irritate the development of new ones.

Basically, if your mind was well behaved for the first eighteen years of your life, don’t be surprised

if it is prepping a royal and unbeknownst “screw you!” And for those who have faced prior mental health challenges, consider first year a fresh testing ground. Assuming that in coming to StFX you are actually a considerable distance from home, adjusting to university (or general adulthood) is arguably one of the most mentally taxing transition periods in life. In the West there are few paradigm shifts so widely shared as leaving the proverbial nest, which is a large reason why psychological challenges arise suddenly and commonly at this time.

Panic disorder; typical age of onset: mid twenties. Bulimia: onsets around ages 16-19. Major depression: mid twenties, with earlier onsets being a trend. Dysthymia (a milder depression disorder): late teens or young adulthood. OCD: teens or young adulthood. Cyclothalamic disorder: teens or young adulthood. Generalized Anxiety disorder: young adulthood. Schizophrenia: young adulthood. Bipolar I and II disorder: ages 18-22—the prime undergrad years, notice. For bipolar disorder in particular, a genetic predisposition is thought to be activated by a stressor, such as drastic life change. Anorexia, too, is of special note. With an average age

of onset of 18 or younger, this disorder tends to affect young women of mid to high socioeconomic status— women likely to attend university.

Perusing the average age of onset for various psychological disorders, it becomes obvious that the start of adulthood is a particularly risky time for mental health. It also becomes evident that affective disorders, psychotic disorders, and eating disorders, and substance abuse disorders afflict the university age person especially. And of course, pre-existing challenges, such as personality disorders, can be further irritated by life change.

There is very little “unique” about university attending young adults compared to non-university attending adults when it comes to the prevalence and types of mental health issues faced. According to a study by the New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 47.7 percent of young adults not attending college and 45.8 percent of young adults attending college or university classify for a psychiatric disorder Before that number incites utter disbelief, it is important to note that the top disorders of university-goers are related to alcohol use (no surprise there). However, university goers are less likely to

have issues with the use of other drugs, especially tobacco, and are also less likely to have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. For all young adults, personality disorders are amongst the most common diagnoses, which is less revealing than it at first seems; of the possible psychiatric disorders, personality disorders are certainly more dubious and open to interpretation when it comes to diagnosing.

For those of you taking psycholog y this year, one of the driving points you will encounter is that psychological phenomena manifest when biolog y and environment collaborate. The shift to adulthood and its freedoms, so often played out in the university context, is a prime instance of individual difference and body chemistry—and maybe, as with schizophrenia, physiolog y— taking shape in the presence of environmental change. Its not outlandish to say that for the mind, familiarity aids a certain stability. A person spends the first eighteen years of their life building attachments to familiar people, locale, social connections, and support systems. The sudden loss of those supports, though voluntary, can create a crisis of meaning, a void which seeks out mental vulnerability.

16

Sunday, August 31, 2014-The Xaverian

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