Month: April 2022

It’s easy to become so involved in your studies that you almost forget graduation is just around the corner. You likely have a few last assignments to complete, and it’s reasonable that these are taking up the vast majority of your time. Plus, you need to say goodbye to all the things you’ll miss about university, including your friends, your favourite hangout spots on campus, and the places you love around the city.

However, you do need to make sure that you’re prepared for life after graduation. Although the hard work will be over soon in one regard, the next chapter of your life is about to begin — and that will bring its own set of challenges. In particular, there are a few things you need to do to find success in this early stage of your career.

1. Let Everyone Know That You’re Graduating

Make sure everyone you know is aware that your graduation date is coming up. Even people you think have no connections in the field you want to enter could surprise you. Tell your extended family, friends, coworkers at your part-time job, manager from your internship, and professors. Also let them know exactly what kind of career you’re looking to pursue. They may be able to put you in contact with the right people for an opportunity that you’d never have found on your own.

2. Start Actively Networking

As well as relying on others, engage in your own networking. Since so much is online these days, there’s no need to travel to in-person events — you can find plenty of opportunities to network virtually. In addition, it’s worth scheduling some one-on-one meetings with people who may be able to give you advice or put you in contact with potential employers. In particular, talk to someone at the job centre at your university, your professors, and faculty members. Remember that you are just one of many students and, unless you make the effort to stay front of mind, even your favourite professors may forget about you.

3. Search for Opportunities on LinkedIn

Your LinkedIn profile is like an online resume that anyone can see. Add everyone you know as a connection to expand your network, including all your friends and classmates. They may be able to connect you to someone useful. You may also like to follow companies that you’d like to work for, just to express an interest. Next, fine tune your profile by uploading a professional headshot, a summary of what you’re looking to achieve, and details of your experience — at university and elsewhere. Finally, you could even start searching for jobs to apply for before you graduate.

Your last few months at university are the most important ones of all. Make them your best yet by moving into the welcoming student community at Foundry Simcoe. Our alternative to Ontario Tech University residence provides you with a comfortable suite equipped with high-speed internet and modern appliances, including a washer and dryer in your unit. Contact us now for an immediate move-in.

To take full advantage of your time at university, you should have plenty of fun adventures. Many students say after they’ve graduated that they regret not spending more time outdoors. Now is the ideal time to discover new places and try new activities, especially since you may not have the same opportunities later. There are several reasons why this is the case.

1. You Have Long Breaks

When you start working, you may only be able to take a few days off a year, whereas at university you have a couple weeks over the winter and spring plus a much longer break for the summer. Even if you have other commitments, such as a seasonal job or internship, or you want to spend time with your family, you should be able to find the time for some outdoor trips.

Many students use their breaks to travel abroad. This opens up even more opportunities, including snowboarding, skiing, and water sports. Plus, you can find hiking trails almost anywhere you go — these are great ways to enjoy the fresh air and take in some scenery.

2. It’s a Great Way to Fill That Free Time

There’s no need to wait until you’re on a break from university to head outdoors. If you manage your time well, you can study just on weekdays, leaving weekends free to spend with friends. You could explore the nearby area, practise sports, or find programs to learn useful survival skills, such as first aid, building a shelter to stay warm, and starting a campfire. It will be easier to do all this now than when you’re older and have responsibilities like childcare.

3. You’ll Destress

It’s not just important to use your free time productively because you’ll have more fun — spending time outdoors will help you relax and get rid of all that pent up stress. Staying active is obviously great for your physical health, but it’s also one of the best ways to improve your mental health. This will mean you’re able to return to your studies with a clear mind and you’ll be more likely to avoid burnout.

4. Activities Are Less Expensive with Student Discounts

It may also be more difficult to experiment with outdoor activities later because prices will increase. Student discounts can be significant, covering everything from transport to equipment and instruction. If you look out for discounts, you may even be able to purchase equipment that is usually prohibitively expensive for a good price.

You’ll need a home base from which you can start your outdoor adventures and return after a long day or extended trip. Your best option is to find a student rental. Oshawa students can receive a suite at Foundry Simcoe, complete with a private bedroom and spacious living room where you can plan your next excursion with friends or roommates. Plus, there are great places nearby for various outdoor activities, including Niagara Park and Kedron Dells Golf Club. Apply for a suite now and you may still be able to grab a unit with a balcony before they’re all gone.