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Author Archive | Zach K.

By on August 17, 2015 in Financial Aid, Saving Money, Student Loans
by Simon Cunningham on Flickr

by Simon Cunningham on Flickr

The majority of university students have forever dealt with student loans. Past students may still be trying to pay off their loans while current ones may feel swamped with the amount of money they will have to pay. Luckily, there are many resources online that have great information for students on how to deal with loans and get rid of them as quickly as possible. Here is a consolidated guide on student loans:

  1. Many experts recommend consolidating loans, and it is something that students should look into, especially if juggling multiple students loans. It combines them all into one loan that can be paid off through one payment per month rather than multiple. This is a huge benefit that can save you money through a plan that better fits your financial needs. Keep in mind that you may end up spending more money if you choose a longer payment schedule, and it may be required that you have a locked interest rate, based on your multiple loans.
  2. Interest rates play an important role in deciding whether to consolidate your loans. Federal loans are presented with fixed rates which establish how much you will be paying throughout your loan schedule. Private loans are subject to change depending on whether they are a variable or a fixed rate loan. Both have pros and cons, but again what is important is that you find a payment schedule that best fits your schedule.
  3. An example of a strategy that can be used when paying off student loans is to pick the shortest payment schedule that you can manage. The longer the payment schedule, the more money in interest you will end up paying, which in most cases will lead to paying off way more than you borrowed.
  4. Attempt to pay more than you need to each month as well. That little amount that you add on to your monthly payments will save you money in the long run and get that loan paid off more quickly. Prioritize the most expensive loan too if you haven’t consolidated your loans, because again, you will save money and time due to the higher interest rates on that loan. Contrarily, you can prioritize your smallest loan to pay it off as quickly as possible. This will save you the most time in the long run because of how long the small interest rate schedule is.
  5. Look for student discount and loan forgiveness options if need be. Those small breaks will help you even if the discounts are very minimal. Loan forgiveness should only be used as a last resort option as it does come with some important clauses.

Student loans remain extremely common with the university population today, and will certainly be an important factor for students in the future. Consolidating federal loans is an option that can help students manage their finances while not impacting their financial situation due to locked interest rates. Private lenders can either save or cost you more money depending on the rates you choose. At the end of the day, pick the schedule and tips that fit your needs and will benefit you the most, in the area you wish to benefit the most. Just remember to always read the fine print.

Find out more about Loans and Consolidation from The Simple Dollar.

By on July 24, 2015 in Entertainment
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Image by John Benson, Flickr

Large companies are always in the news, but recently the coverage has been highlighting negative events related to their businesses. Rarely are the ethical companies discussed, and even more rare is if their deeds get the recognition they deserve. In a time where many companies are purely seeking profit, it’s important to recognize the companies that are being both ethical and fair in their dealings. Brands that are socially and environmentally conscious and going out of their way to make a difference should be recognized for their contributions.

SurveyMonkey has worked with almost every Fortune 500 company, and is one that has put in the effort to create a socially aware part of their brand through their charity donations. For each survey taken via SurveyMonkey, the company donates fifty cents to the charity of your choice. Through all these donations they’ve managed to donate over $5 million – impressive!

Warby Parker is a similar online based company which sells glasses, and incorporates a program called Buy a Pair, Give a Pair into their business model. Based on the number of glasses sold each month, they make a glasses donation to a nonprofit company. In additon, Warby Parker’s Buy a Pair, Give a Pair program trains individuals in developing countries on how to give basic eye exams and sell glasses within their communities.

Tesla Motors is another company that has emerged in recent years, offering electric cars with qualities equal to that of gasoline cars. Tesla cars are also equipped with many of the latest automobile tech advances and are some of the most beautiful looking cars on the market. Add in the fact that they’re eco-friendly, and this company is sure to make a lasting impact on the market for years to come.

Google has been around for years promoting many ideas that reflect their commitment to ethics and the future. Students have been a primary focus for Google, and they’ve created many resources for students such as the Summer of Code, Google Students, and Google Scholar. Google’s website also includes a list that highlights their philosophical values, an investor code of conduct and Google Crisis Response.

Microsoft, similarly to Google, has been recognized as an ethical company from the tech sector. Their website lists core principles which employees are expected to follow, and how they expect partners to act. Like Google, they have enforced their core principles strictly and have created a long overview of their core values.

Companies are striving to create a work culture that revolves around a core set of values. As companies are becoming more and more transparent, their practices are being called into question if they don’t adhere to regulations. Companies that have already been practicing fair treatment are one step ahead of the curve. I believe that many companies in the future will increasingly strive to promote their ethical and socially conscious side as businesses move towards both a profitable and ethical model.

By on July 13, 2015 in In the Workplace

Have you written a letter lately? You know, the old school method with pen, paper and ink? Chances are you probably haven’t, which means that like most people you use email today to stay in contact with people. While you may know the basics of email etiquette, many people forget that it’s more than just pressing send. Check out this infographic on email etiquette – we’ve summarized our favourite tips below.

Email Etiquette Checklist Read before pressing send

This infographic was contributed by guest author Sarai Sinai and Outbox Documents.

  1. Make sure to add a subject line, no matter the subject and no matter the urgency of the email. Having that subject line there for the recipient will help them prioritize the emails they receive and respond appropriately. They can shuffle through all the spam, work and fun emails they receive and get back to you as soon possible.
  2. Never use casual salutations when sending an email, even if it’s to a friend or someone you know very well. It’s best to use “hi” and “hello” as they are the traditional salutations and will work for both casual and professional emails.
  3. Add the recipient’s email address last when preparing your email; you don’t want to end up accidentally sending an unfinished email. This could reflect poorly on you.
  4. Refrain from using walls of text as the formatting of your email. It’s ugly, unpleasant to read and will surely not be appreciated by the recipient. Format your email so that it’s easy to read and will highlight the main points. Make sure to proofread; spelling errors will never help you. Don’t jeopardize your professional career over an extra minute of review.
  5. Avoid double messaging if a face to face meeting would be better suited. Following up twice or calling too much may show your dedication, but it will annoy your employer if you do it too much.
  6. The “reply all” button is not to be used often. This is ok if the email involves two or three recipients discussing work tasks. But if you “reply all” for party invites or massive work emails, then everyone will see your email and wonder why it’s taking up room in their inbox when it doesn’t pertain to them.
  7. Don’t scare people into action by using intense email subject lines. Use the “urgent” and the high priority flag individually and avoid sending an email with both in the subject line. Scaring people into reading your email is never nice, certainly if it’s just to ask where the stapler is!

By on July 10, 2015 in Academic Life
Image by Uwww.audio-luci-store.it on Flickr

Image by Uwww.audio-luci-store.it on Flickr

Arriving that first day on campus can be unnerving and have you wondering if you’re ever going to make any friends. Going to a university far away or without any high school friends may seem scary at first, but fear not: you will make many friends! While high school may have been a bit cliquey, university is full of many people who are new as well and open to making new friends.

If you live on residence, the first thing to do is make friends with your roommate(s). Depending on your living arrangements, you may only have one person to live with, or multiple people. No matter the amount, it’s always smart to be good friends with people you are living with. For the first couple of weeks (if not the next four years!) they will be your best friends. You and your roommates are all experiencing the campus together for the first time, which will help you bond.

For those living in a dorm style residence, you will have an even easier time making friends! The first couple of weeks will be all about getting to know your floormates and becoming great friends with them. Hanging out in the hallway or in a neighbour’s room are pretty common and this definitely helps you bond with your floormates. Get out there and socialize with the people on your floor – they will want to as well.

Worried about making friends when you’re commuting to school and not living on campus? Classes are a perfect location to make new friends and meet other people who will be in your program. It’s as easy as introducing yourself to the person next to you and striking up a conversation with them. Eventually you will end up sitting in your usual spot in class and talking to the people who are usually sitting next to you! Talking to the people around you is the easiest way to make friends in class no matter if you’re in a large lecture or smaller class session.

Make sure to take advantage of all the social opportunities on campus if you’re having trouble making friends in class or in residence. Universities have events, clubs and meetings dedicated to making students friendlier with each other. Clubs are the perfect place to meet people who may be from the same place you’re from or who share the same interests as you. Don’t pass on these opportunities to meet people like you.

Put yourself out there and don’t let shyness stop you from meeting new people. Don’t be afraid to get out and make friends – remember, most first years are feeling the same way you are!

For more help on social life at university check out our 10 tips for a successful first year.

By on June 30, 2015 in Academic Life, Our Stories
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Photo by uniinnsbruck on Flickr

Reaching the halfway point of my university career has been a bit scary. Those two years flew by and soon enough the next two years will be done as well. I find it important to reflect on the things I’ve learned throughout my first two years both in and out of the classroom, and in regards to university as a whole. More importantly, I believe it is essential to highlight the skills I have learned in regards to studying, and how newcomers to university can learn from previous mistakes that I’ve made. Having finished my second year of university and reflecting back on my time of studies, there are many things I feel should be highlighted for new students.

  1. Start the semester strong – Being able to do really well on those early midterms and essays makes a difference. Rather than being pressured to ace your final exam or essay, do well on the earlier work to reduce the stress you’ll have later on.
  2. Find YOUR best way to study – Not everyone works well in study groups or at the library; I know I didn’t. Finding the manner in which you work the best and sticking to it will help you excel in school. By the end of first year it may already be a routine!
  3. Manage your time for other activities – Constant studying will exhaust you and it’s important to do other things while on campus – playing sports, joining clubs, seeing friends, attending parties. Make sure to leave time for fun and don’t constantly think about what’s due next week.
  4. Get enough sleep – Especially for those living on residence, getting the proper amount of sleep can be difficult sometimes. Ensuring you’re well rested for lectures and not being lazy about attendance is good habit to keep throughout your four years. Don’t get too immersed into the party life and staying out late on school nights; your studies should still come first.
  5. Take advantage of the resources on campus – Every university, no matter their size, is equipped to help students deal with the problems they’re having. And even if you’re not in a pickle and just looking to find a job or some information, your school will have the right people there to help you.

I hope these tips help you get through your first two years of university and avoid some of the mistakes that I made. University is a great time – be sure to enjoy your stay!

By on June 8, 2015 in Wellness
Image by Colonnade Boston on Flickr

Image by Colonnade Boston on Flickr

Staying healthy on campus can be tough with so many ways for students to get lazy and ignore their health. Cafeteria food isn’t exactly known for its health benefits, and going to a grocery store to pick up food can be a pain, especially after a long day of classes. On top of that, who has time to go for a run or the money to spend on a set of weights? Luckily, most campuses offer a wide range of activities and groups that can help you stay in shape no matter your schedule. Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned.

  1. Don’t give up the sports you played in high school.  You played those sports in high school because you enjoyed them, so why give them up because you’re in university? Most universities have clubs or intramurals for different types of sports – and some even for sports played overseas.
  2. Don’t be afraid of the campus gym. Walking into the gym for the first time might be intimidating, but consistently going helps to break down those boundaries you might have initially had. Develop a schedule that includes time for the gym, and it will most certainly help with relieving stress and creating a healthy body.
  3. Get workout or sports buddies. Friends will keep you motivated when you find yourself not wanting to get out of bed. Having them there will help you have fun while getting a good workout.
  4. Take advantage of the campus. Most campuses have trails for running or biking that are easily accessible to students. During your spare time, take advantage of these resources. They’re close by, and nothing beats fresh air.
  5. Have long term goals. Create fitness goals that you would like to complete by the end of the semester or the end of the year. This will help you stay motivated to exercising, and you’ll be able to see how your body progresses as the year goes on.

It’s easy to ignore your health while at university, but the long term effects can be detrimental to your body. Whether it’s through eating healthy, staying in shape or both, make sure you find a routine to properly take care of yourself. While you may not notice it short term, your body will love you in the long run for taking good care of it!

By on May 7, 2015 in Academic Life, Housing, Our Stories
Image by Matt Radick on Flickr

Image by Matt Radick on Flickr

Moving out for the first time can be intimidating, and for many university students it’s a completely new experience. I remember my first day on residence was nerve-wracking. It was my first time away from home and I would be living with three complete strangers. Would we get along? Would they have bad habits that would cause problems? Could I potentially annoy them in some way? I went into first year residence with an open mind, and I learned many things in the process, especially in regards to dealing with roommates and solving our problems. Here are a few tips that I have for creating good relationships with your roommates.

  1. Clean up after yourself: Whether it’s after cooking or taking a shower, your roommates will not want to see your mess and will definitely not want to clean up after you. Remember that these areas are shared spaces and that it is your job to clean up after you’re done.
  2. Sharing is caring: Don’t be afraid to share with your roommates. It’ll show them that you aren’t self-centred and that you see them as friends. Better yet, they may share things with you as well!
  3. Speak up if you have a problem: In first year, I had two roommates who never spoke about their problems with each other. This caused tension between them for half the year. Don’t let problems fester and boil over. If you have a problem with one of your roommates, bring it up and find a way to solve the issue immediately.
  4. Respect your roommates’ space: Your roommates are sure to have schedules that aren’t similar to yours and have belongings that are off limits. Respect their space and in turn they should respect yours as well.
  5. Divide up the chores: If you’re living in a dorm or a house, chances are you will have to clean the place once a month. Create a schedule where each individual has to clean an area and where the work is balanced between all of the roommates.

If there’s one thing you take away from this article, it should be that communication is key between roommates. You’re going to be living with these people for at least eight months, and it’s in everyone’s best interest to make sure that living with each other goes smoothly. A toxic relationship with your roommates can ruin the residence experience and also affect your grades. If you put in the effort to have a good experience, your roommates will certainly do the same. Treat your roommates the way you would want to be treated, and in turn you will have a great first year with them.

For some more tips on how to get along with your roommate check out this article.