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Diversity Campaign Kicks Offpage 9

CNCSU Goes Mobilepage 3

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Change, as the saying goes, is good. Going by that logic, September is objectively the best month. Along with the changes from summer to fall and work to school come several changes to The Confluence:

First, our email address has shifted from the old unwieldy confluence.editor@gmail.com to the suave, succinct news@cncsu.ca.

Second, we now are able to do paid submissions for content. News stories, opinion pieces and creative works are all welcome, and contributors can get a cool $20.

Lastly, we’re running at least one ‘special’ issue a semester with a unified theme and art style. Contributors will work more closely with us editors to produce a coherent, thematic issue. This fall we’re doing a ‘Spooktacular’ comic book.

Garett Svensen,Production Editor

HouseKeeping

Andy Johnson,Editor-in-Chief

Garett Svensen,Production Editor

Connecting the dotsAs many returning students know, post-secondary is a lot of work: A non-stop reading list, engaging in class discus-

sions, studying for midterms and finally ending with a nerve racking final exam. These are the hallmarks of a usual semester; although, some are better than others.

Through all the hustle and bustle of a busy Academic year, students will forget a lot of information given in their instructional periods, but they will be gifted with invaluable lessons which are implied during their studies.

In some facets, these unstated lessons are much more important than the information that is stated. The main objec-tive of students enrolled in Post-Secondary could be summarized simply as take away life lessons that students are able to utilize as transferable skills. These transferable skills are created by every individual student’s connections with course content that can then be transferred to the individual student’s life.

The first of these skills, which applies universally to all students, is learning how to communicate effectively. While English may not be everybody’s favorite subject, it is important to analyze any reading materials, and learn the struc-ture of an essay for the following reasons:

1) By reading a text (whether for pleasure, or for class), a student is able to build on their existing knowledge base, be able to physically see the way in which a text is constructed, and is also able to analyze context and information provided.

2) Concise points that are being made are supported by evidences from different sources. This is important for all areas of study since communication is a strong tool for anyone enrolled in Post-Secondary.

3) Researching evidence to support a thesis statement strengthens communication (this also provides a chance to give some critical thought into the subject matter and to draw conclusions based on supporting evidence).

4) Allows students to work independently on a focused topic. This is a crucial skill for every student since higher level courses tend to be much more independent, and require a lot more attention.

Being able to effectively communicate in writing is just one transferable skill which students can transfer, and utilize verbally, which is indispensable when it comes to class discussions, or group project work.

Post-Secondary is a lot of hard work, and at times can be stressful, especially when writing multiple papers at once, but it is a worthwhile experience for any student that is seeking knowledge.

Andy Johnson, Editor-in-Chief

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Environment Canada 5-Day Earth Weather Forecast:For Prince George, BC. 4-9 September 2012Tuesday, September 4: 22°C, 5°C, Cloudy.Wednesday, September 5: 21°C, 9°C, Sunny.Thusday, September 6: 24°C, 7°C, Sunny.Friday, September 7: 24°C, 4°C, Sunny.Saturday, September 8: 23°C, 5°C, Sunny.

September 2012

The Confluence is produced biweekly at the CNCSU office on CNC’s Prince George campus by Garett Svensen and Andy Johnson.

Submissions, inqueries and requests can be made to news.cncsu.ca, in person at the CNCSU office room 1-303, or mailed to “The Confluence c/o CNCSU 3330-22nd Ave. Prince George, BC. V2N 1P8”

All submissions are welcome, the authors of edited works used in the confluence receive a $20 cheque upon publication. Advertisement rates are availiable upon request.

Two fundraising events are coming to CNC that are collecting pledges for their worthy causes.

The Canadian Cancer Society and Cops For Cancer have the “Big Honkin’ Head Shave” event Thursday September 13th between 12pm and 2pm in the atrium.

Go to www.bighonkinheadshave.ca to register for a head shave, more info can be found at the CNCSU office.

The “Scotiabank Aids Walk for Life” occurs on Saturday, September 22nd at Masich Stadium. Pledge sheets and more information can be found in the CNCSU office 1-303 or online at www.aidswalkforlife.ca.

Garett Svensen,Production Editor

Lifesaving Fundraisers

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012Student Survival Guide

Garett Svensen,Production Editor

Well into my 6th year of undergraduate study, I feel like I have a few tidbits of advice I can share with fellow students.

1: Get enough sleep. 8-10 hours worth a day. It’s the single most important thing that students typically don’t get enough of. Your well-being, friends and grades will thank you.

2: Try new things. Opportunity abounds in post-secondary to experience things way out of your comfort zone. Just be careful.

3: Go to class. Especially for new students, the temptation to just lie in bed in the morning is great. The classes may be dull, but you’re paying for them. Make your investment worth it.

5: Get involved. Every year, dozens of students participate in clubs, go on trips, organize events and have a blast building a community around their interests. It’s a great way to meet people and have some fun. Even outside of clubs, study groups, sports groups and regular old hang-out groups offer that delicious social function.

6: Challenge yourself. There’s a bit of a problem with a lot of classes, either they’re mind-numbingly boring or mind-bendingly hard. Either way it’s easy to become frustrated. A hobby or project that challenges an existing skill can be a good way to ease that frustration. Pick up that guitar, throw some paint or write something for the student paper.

7: Don’t overdo it. To quote John McCrea “Excess ain’t rebellion.” Just because you can go and get wasted on weekends doesn’t mean you should. Not to say you shouldn’t have fun, but take it easy and for the sake of whatever deity or force you pray to, don’t drive if you’ve been indulging.

8: Education is never useless and not everything worth learning is in class. Skills in research and critical thinking are useful everywhere. Time management and working with hard deadlines can help with efficiency. Interpersonal skills become essential as schooling progresses and you move into work. The list goes on.

Zzzzz....

4: Eat right. This meshes well with many of the other items here in promoting well-being. Learning to cook is fun, and produces food so much more satisfying than fast-food fare.

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SudokuCNC Confluence

Sudoku 9x9 - Puzzle 1 of 5 - Easy

6 5 2 8

1 3 4 5

8 5 6 3

1 2 7

3 7 9 6 2 5

8 1 6

7 2 1 6

5 3 9 7

9 1 6 4www.sudoku-puzzles.net

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You may find yourself busier than you initially thought. Spend your time wisely, and try not to butt heads with others.

Creativity is calling, but don’t stay too long in the clouds. There are certain matters that require you to take the bull by the horns.

Lately you may feel like you are arguing with yourself over an important issue. Take time to analyze all available information.

Working is great, but it is time you go out with some friends. Some fresh air and good com-pany will help you think more clearly.

Someone close to you has caused you some grief. Instead of roaring about how they have wronged you, try forgiving them.

The rewards you have reaped have run out. It is time to start planning your next good deed. Expect an old friend.

You may feel your equilibrium is off; this may have something to do with your new love interest. Don’t let yourself be swept away.

The fires that have been caused recently by others might be more stress for you than they are worth. Do your best not to be venomous.

The tides have changed in your favor, but don’t get too comfortable. Opportunities may open up for you if you are able to hit your mark.

Intuition could prove to be an asset, but be cautious as you could find yourself in some unfamiliar waters.

As Bruce Lee once said, “Be like water.” You may find that by letting things happen as they unfold, situations may flow smoother.

Recently you may feel that a relationship in your life is sinking due to a close friend’s success. This should not be a deterrent.

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HoroscopesBACK-TO-SCHOOL WORD SEARCH

R E M M U S F O D N E J S Y S

E K D I D Z S R N E L U I H C

G O C D F P J I F U F E A F H

I O I D P Y E E H L K I O I E

S B E L E M E N T A R Y G R D

T T S E N I A T C C B H T S U

R X U S S U Y A U I S N T T L

A E O C E P C T O C L M C W E

T T H H P B P I H V F S S E S

I N N O T E B O O K S Y D E E

O R E O E C O N P R Y X N K S

N L P L M L S E O H S W E N S

L X O S B A C K P A C K I M A

N R U U E H G F P A P E R E L

H T S G R N J U R V T V F E C

BACKPACK TEXTBOOK END OF SUMMER

PENCILS NOTEBOOKS PAPER

HAIRCUT FRIENDS NEW SHOES

PENS CLASSES ORIENTATION

OPEN HOUSE SEPTEMBER REGISTRATION

SCHOOL BUS SCHEDULES HIGH SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL ELEMENTARY FIRST WEEK

Word search courtesy of Memory-Improvement-Tips.com © 2010

1) This Greek god was an excellent black-smith.

2) Minerva turned her into a spider.

3) Which of these is not one of the three graces? Kybele, Thaleia or Euphrosyne?

4) Legend says the ‘Mona Lisa’ was painted for?

5) Lycanthropy refers to which of these? Re-incarnation, Dreams or Werewolves?

6) What did Cleopatra have stuffed into her mattress?

Word SearchBACK-TO-SCHOOL WORD SEARCH

R E M M U S F O D N E J S Y S

E K D I D Z S R N E L U I H C

G O C D F P J I F U F E A F H

I O I D P Y E E H L K I O I E

S B E L E M E N T A R Y G R D

T T S E N I A T C C B H T S U

R X U S S U Y A U I S N T T L

A E O C E P C T O C L M C W E

T T H H P B P I H V F S S E S

I N N O T E B O O K S Y D E E

O R E O E C O N P R Y X N K S

N L P L M L S E O H S W E N S

L X O S B A C K P A C K I M A

N R U U E H G F P A P E R E L

H T S G R N J U R V T V F E C

BACKPACK TEXTBOOK END OF SUMMER

PENCILS NOTEBOOKS PAPER

HAIRCUT FRIENDS NEW SHOES

PENS CLASSES ORIENTATION

OPEN HOUSE SEPTEMBER REGISTRATION

SCHOOL BUS SCHEDULES HIGH SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL ELEMENTARY FIRST WEEK

Word search courtesy of Memory-Improvement-Tips.com © 2010

Trivia

1) Hephaestus - The only Greek god with a gimpy leg. 2) Arachne - She wove patterns mocking the god’s foibles. 3) Kybele - Goddesses who per-sonified beauty, grace, and good nature. 4) The subject’s husband - Francesco Del Giocondo - he refused it cause hedidn’t like it. 5) Werewolves - Werefox, werebear, weretiger, any half man-half animal. 6) Roses - Fresh, every night.Trivia Answers

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I look forward to my third year working for you as the Executive Director for our very own College of New Caledonia Students’ Union.

Graduating from UBC in 2010 with a degree in Human Resources and Marketing, the value added educa-tion I gained as an elected student representative for the UBC Students’ Union Okanagan gave me experience to assist our elected CNC student representatives in running an effective and active Students’ Union. Advocat-ing for you locally, provincially and nationally through various campaigns, as well as throwing some awesome events and providing some great services to help make your life easier while you’re here at CNC!

Teleah Old,Services Coordinator

Robert Chavarie,Executive Director

Leila Soila Abubakar,Chairperson

Hi, my name is Leila Soila Abubakar and I’ve heard the pleasure of serv-ing you as your CNCSU Chairperson since October 2012. I’m a Third year Student at UNBC working towards a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Marketing and Management. I received a diploma in Marketing and Management from CNC and continue to take part time classes at CNC.

Hello, I’m Teleah Old I am the CNCSU Services Coordinator. I worked part-time here last year while attending CNC for university transfer sciences and I look forward to con-tinuing my work this year in my new role. If you have any questions regard-ing our newly implemented Health and Dental plan, the U-Pass or any of our other services stop by our office! To keep track of campus life events and awesome volunteer opportuni-ties sign up for our free application OOHLAHA Mobile on your Android or iPhone!

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CSUPatricia Obasi,

Relations Coordinator

My name is Patricia Obasi, I’m an international student from Abuja, Nigeria in West Africa. I have been at the College of New Caledonia for a year now. I started up as a University Transfer Student and volunteered as a student leader at the international office and also at the Student union office. I am currently in the Nursing program and I am an elected Rep in the student union as the College Relations Coordinator. I will be providing updates and news from the international office as well as upcoming and current issues in the college.

My focus this year at the CNCSU will be creating campus life around CNC; whether it be parties, events, or clubs. If you are interested in starting a club or want to put on an event, come see me in the CNCSU office or email me at internal@cncsu.ca.

Brandon Williams,Internal Coordinator

ADVOCACY

CAMPAIGNS

SERVICES

EVENTS

Jasmine Bhattie,External Coordinator

Hey guys! My name is Jasmine Bhatti, I am the External Affairs Co-ordinator here at the CNCSU. I was born, and raised in Prince George. I am currently working on a marketing degree, here at CNC. I love working with the Student’s Union office, and I always try to be as involved as pos-sible in campus life. As an elected rep-resentative I will be working directly with campaigns, and activities. The Canadian Federation runs campaigns that fight for a good cause, and it is my pleasure to be working with them. If you ever see me around feel free to say hi.

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The CNCSU has been a driving force in student success and sustainability. One such matter which the CNCSU has helped be implemented are the water filling stations around the Prince George Campus.

While water fountains help alleviate money spent by students on bottled water, a major concern that students have raised about fountains has to do with their sanitary conditions. The filling stations (which were installed over the past few months) are intended to end bottled water being sold on Campus.

The filling stations are free for anyone to use, and can be used to fill bottles, carafes, decanters and mugs, but should not be used to empty beverage containers. These fill stations can be located on the first floor by the Gymnasium and in the Cafeteria, the second floor by the payphones, on the third floor by offices 3-306-3-313 and in the Student Lounge located in the new Trades Building.

Alex Mackey,Treasurer

My name is Alex Mackey and I have been treasurer for your CNCSU since January 2012. In 2011 I received my Accounting and Finance Diploma, and currently I’m focusing on Accounting and Finance university transfer cours-es at CNC. Please feel free to stop in at the CNCSU Office if you have any questions!

Burton Alexis,Aboriginal Students’ Rep

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No PhotoAvailiable

Charmaine Junio,Women Students’ Rep

My name is Burton Alexis; I am currently in my 2nd year at the college, working towards getting SSWK (social work) certificate. I am your Aboriginal representative on the Student Union board; this is my first year in this role. I also enjoy writing, especially poetry. I am also trying my hand at short stories.

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The College of New Caledonia Students’ Union (CNCSU) is the collective voice of all students attending the College of New Caledonia. The CNCSU provides services and events, and advocates for student rights locally, provincially and nationally. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, stop by the office or e-mail us at info@cncsu.ca

Room 1-3033330 22nd Avenue Prince George, BC, V2N 1P8Tel: (250) 562-7415 Fax: (250) 562-4709 Email: info@cncsu.ca Web: www.cncsu.ca

Advocacy is the primary function of your Students’ Union. The CNCSU can support and assist you through grade appeals and student complaints, and provide advice and assistance with any issues you might face as a student.

The CNCSU also lobbies for a fair, affordable and fully accessible post-secondary education on the municipal, provincial and national government levels. Drop by your Students’ Union office to find out how you can help.

The CNC Students’ Union Health and Dental Plan is mandatory for all full-time students. Students whom are members of the Students’ Union and initially exempt may opt-in to the plan. Students who have existing extended health and dental coverage have the option to opt-out of the plan.

The CNCSU Health and Dental Plan covers basic dental, prescription medication, partial optical, chiropractic care, naturopathic care, massage therapy (with a doctor‘s referral), acupuncture as well as some additional medical costs. The plan also provides a travel insurance package. For a more detailed list of the services that are covered by the plan or for information about co-payment rates (if you will have dual coverage from another plan) please visit Green Shield’s online Student Centre www.greenshield.ca/studentcentre. If you have specific coverage questions you can also contact a Green Shield representative directly at 1-888-711-1119. 3. The coverage period of the plan is September 1, 2012 until August 31, 2013.

College of New Caledonia

Students’ UnionCanadian Federation of Students Local 13

- FREE to all CNC Students! ($16 Value)- Great discounts on travel with - Greyhound, Via Rail and Travel CUTS

- FREE local & long distance faxing! (within Canada)- Great Rates for International too!- Fax receiving service available too!- Cheapest photocopying on campus!- Only $0.05 per page single or double sided!

- Funding available up to $500 per club!- Great opportunity to make new friends- Start a club today!- Dedicated clubs information board

- Great local discounts around town.- Located in the back of your Student Union Handbook- Includes discounts across Canada.

- To help combat student poverty- Information about community services available as well- The Students’ Union is always looking for donations and remember: Every Can Counts

your students’ union • local 13, canadian federation of students

Your Students’ Union

Advocacy:

International Student Identity Card (ISIC):

Faxing and photocopying:

Clubs:

Studentsaver:

Student food bank:

- The Universal Transit Pass gives you unlimited use of Prince George Transit as well as full use of both Aquatic Centers in Prince George. Pick-up your student card at admissions than pop by the Students’ Union Office to get your U-Pass sticker

U•Pass

- Rent your locker at the Students’ Union office, Room 1-303 (Near the Atrium).- Half size lockers are $5 per term - Full size lockers are $10 per term - $5 lock deposit fee- Payment method: Cash Only

Lockers

SU Services:Extended Health & Dental:

More SU Services:

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Smudging is a sacred ceremony that was performed for generations in First Nations culture. Even today, smudging is still practiced. The purpose of smudging is to cleanse the body and mind of un-wanted negative thoughts, or feelings. It’s similar to when one has a shower or a bath to cleanse the body of filth, and smudging is no different.

By using the herb sage, the person performing the ceremony will burn a little bit of the sage to create some smoke, then with an eagle feather they will flutter it back and forth smudging the sage smoke all over the body, giving the person a spiritual bath on the emotional, mental and spiritual levels of the individual.

To make the ceremony even more effective, the person who is being smudged must be facing east. Because the sun rises from the east, this allows the person to take in all the energy of a new day, giving them a fresh start. Since all people are made of energy, our thoughts, and our bodies, one will be cleansed by the smudging ceremony on more than one level.

I would like to encourage any and all students to join us and partake in this sacred ceremony every morning at 9:30 am, just outside the Aboriginal Resource Center. It is a self-healing ceremony that allows everyone to experience Aboriginal culture first hand, and benefits mental and spiritual health. Anyone who would be interested please contact Darlene McIntosh at the Aboriginal Resource Center.

Native Spirituality: SmudgingBurton Alexis,Aboriginal Student’s Rep

Sage Smudges

Congratulations to you, for taking a leap of faith and moving to Canada to pursue your education. I’m glad you have chosen Prince George and the College of New Caledonia to kick start your experience.

I’m sure you’ve heard a lot of horror stories about how cold it gets here -all of them true, I’ll have you know-, but the city and the people of Prince George make it bearable and a pleasurable experience by being generous and welcoming.

My name is Leila Soila Abubakar, serving you as your Chairperson for the Students’Union. I’m also an International student who has an absolute pleasure studying at both local educational institutions, CNC and UNBC. Welcome to CNC. Pass by the Students’ Union office to say hello when you have a moment.

InternationalStudentsLeila Soila Abubakar,Chairperson

The World

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Free* access to our:

Squash court

Bouldering wall

Weight room

Gymnasium

Fitness classes

*Free with your student fees. You must present student ID and sign a waiver. A $10 refundable deposit is required to access the weight room.

CNC RECREATION At CNC, we want you to have the best experience possible and we believe that involves your mind and your body. Check out our newly renovated weight room, equipped with everything you need to get in shape and reach your fitness goals. Why not get fit just for the fun of it? Join us for intramurals which will be organized Monday to Thursday between 2:30 pm—3:30 pm (Fall 2012/Spring 2013 semesters).

For more information, please visit Jana at the Gym office, Room 1-508, email petersj8@cnc.bc.ca or call 250.561.5803