IS IT EVER OKAY TO SKIP CLASS?

Generally, skipping class in university is frowned upon. Frequently missing classes negatively impacts academic performance and should therefore be avoided. After all, being absent from just one lecture can put you behind on assignments and cause you to miss vital information or materials.

Of course, there are some instances in which missing a class is simply unavoidable. If you’re torn between staying in your cozy Ottawa student housing or powering through to get to university, here’s a helpful guide to help you make the best decision for your needs.

When Is It Inappropriate to Skip Class?

There are plenty of tempting reasons to skip a lecture, including:

·        Not being in the mood

·        Feeling too tired

·        Partying too hard the night before

·        Going to bed extremely late

·        Planning to attend an event (i.e. a concert or sporting event) that’s happening during class hours

·        Running personal errands

·        Hanging out with friends

Yet, although they might seem important to you, these reasons don’t hold up as grounds for skipping class. In many cases, they can be easily addressed or planned around. For instance, if you’re feeling tired, grab a coffee or find some other way to wake up. With a demanding course load and other responsibilities to juggle, these days might come often. Fortunately, you can combat them with a mantra, hype music, or another motivational tactic. Or, simply remind yourself that attending class is essential to your success.

Now that the poorer excuses for skipping have been addressed, here are some legitimate reasons you might need to miss a class.

When You Need to Meet Academic Obligations

Sometimes, sacrifices must be made in the name of academic success. Major exams, important presentations, and large projects require significant time and work. Unfortunately, they may require more time and work than a student has to dedicate. Large assignments or academic obligations have the greatest impact on your final grade, making them the most important assignments to complete. Thus, forgoing less important academic obligations (i.e. attending class) could be appropriate in this situation.

Pushing aside less important classes or assignments for more important ones isn’t encouraged, but it may be necessary in certain cases. Just remember to inquire about the lecture you’ll be missing and any major concepts that will be covered by asking a fellow student for a copy of their notes from that day’s class.

When There’s an Emergency

Emergencies are rarely foreseen, and a student might need to juggle or push aside certain priorities to address an emergency. Some emergencies even require going home or travelling, such as a death in the family. In these cases, it would be impossible to attend class. Some other common examples of emergencies that should keep you away from class, include:

·        Serious personal injury or illness

·        A serious car accident

·        Inclement weather that makes travel risky

·        An extreme on-campus threat

While you may not be able to contact your professor right away, informing them of the reason for your absence at the earliest opportunity is always a good idea. In most cases, you’ll find that professors are understanding of true emergencies. Just be sure to get notes from a classmate and offer to make up any missed coursework when possible.

When You have a Job Interview

Because university seniors are on the cusp of graduating and beginning a new career, many spend time distributing resumes and putting in job applications. If you’re fortunate enough to score an interview, you won’t want to miss out on this important opportunity. Since the main goal is to get a job in your career path after graduation, interview invitations should always be taken seriously. If your interview is scheduled during a class and can’t be rescheduled, skip the class and take the interview. Most professors are understanding of such situations if they’re informed first. 

A COMPLETE CHECKLIST FOR FINDING THE BEST STUDENT HOUSING

Whether your university days are just beginning or you’ve been attending classes for several semesters, finding the right off-campus housing is important to ensuring a rewarding student experience. But what exactly does this entail? Which features should you be one the lookout for? With so many options available, it can be a little overwhelming to seek out student housing. Ottawa, in particular, is home to several options, including the fully furnished units from 1Eleven. No matter what you have in mind, the following checklist will help make your search a little easier. Here’s everything you need to know when it comes to finding the best student housing.

Do Your Research

Before you even begin looking at places, it is important to do your research. Take a look at where your university is located and check out the surrounding areas. Here are some things to consider when it comes to choosing an area to rent in:

·         Is it close to your university? Make sure your commute is short and it’s easy to get to classes.

·         Is rent cheap? Some areas are much more expensive than others, so do your research and make sure you aren’t overpaying.

·         Is it safe? Look into the neighborhood and check out the crime statistics. It’s important to put your safety first and to feel secure in your home.

·         Is it convenient? Are there shops close by for groceries? Outdoor spaces? Parks? Public Transport? Think about what you might be doing in your downtime and how the location will support your favorite activities.

Check Out The Amenities

Now that you have a good idea of where you want to be living, it’s time to start the hunt. One of the most important things to factor in is the included amenities, as these can make all the difference between a comfortable stay and just getting by.

·         Is there a front desk? If so, you may feel safer when coming home after dark.

·         Is there somewhere to study? Some residences offer study lounges, so you can get out of your room to work in a comfortable, designated space.

·         Is there a gym? This is an added bonus that could actually end up saving you lots in gym membership fees!

·         Are their social areas? Of course, socializing is an important aspect of cultivating a rewarding university experience. Finding a place that offers communal areas is the perfect chance to meet new people.

·         Is there parking

·         Is there bike storage?

·         What is the internet like?

·         Are there laundry facilities on site?

Take A Tour

Now that you know the area you want to live and have narrowed down a few places based on the amenities they offer, it’s time to schedule a tour! While pictures can give you an idea of what to expect, a walk-through tour allows you to see everything for yourself. Here are some features to look for on your tour:

·         Lighting: Is there enough natural light? Light not only enhances your mood, but it also lowers your electricity bill.

·         Locks: Are they working properly?

·         Cupboards: Is there enough cupboard space to hold basic necessities?

·         Floors: Are the floors in common areas kept clean?

·         Outlets: Are there enough of them in the right locations?

Consider Rent

A final but important consideration is monthly rent. After doing your research, you should have some idea of what to expect in terms of monthly payments. With that being said, there are a few more considerations to bear in mind:

·         Are utilities included in rent?

·         What are the typical costs of water, heat, electricity and gas?

·         Does the rent scale depending on bedroom size?

·         Are there any added costs to know about?

Choosing a place to live is a big decision. It can often help to bring someone close to you along on the search to be a sounding board and offer an extra pair of eyes. This should be an exciting time for you, and the most important thing is to trust your instincts. You will know when you have found the perfect place to call home.

 

Network Through Volunteering

 Many high school and college students volunteer because it’s a great way to give back to the community while impressing prospective colleges and employers. While some students may opt out of volunteering because they already have enough responsibilities to juggle, they could be missing out on a much-needed networking opportunity. Networking allows students to meet like-minded individuals who are working or will work in their field. Of course, while some residents of Ottawa student housing take on unpaid positions during college, volunteering can be difficult for those who require the money to attend college in the first place. Yet, volunteering can ultimately help students land their dream job, as it presents invaluable opportunities to meet professionals in their field and exercises their ability to complete tasks related to their prospective career. Discover why it’s worth making time for volunteering in your busy schedule below.

Volunteer for Causes You Care About

To get the most from your volunteering experience, you can seek out an organization that aligns with your career interests. If you’re studying social work, for instance, landing a volunteer position at a local shelter can help you gain valuable insight into the field. By working side-by-side with people already in the field, you’ll learn more about your industry and exercise your knowledge in real-world situations.

Job Opportunities

By choosing to volunteer with an organization whose goals align with those of your chosen career path, you may encounter potential job opportunities. While your future career may seem like it’s in the distant future, it’s really not so far away at all. Meeting professionals in managerial and other decision-making roles could help you land a job after college. You’ll be able to showcase your skills and talents, and they’ll be able to tell you everything you need to know about the job.

Even if you choose a volunteer opportunity that doesn’t exactly align with your career goals, networking with individuals can still help you land your dream job. While volunteering does look good on a resume, so does having references in high-level positions at any organization.

Growing your Network

Volunteering also provides the unique opportunity to grow your professional network. You will likely meet other college students who share your major and with whom you can discuss your target field. While these connections may not be beneficial immediately, by building and nurturing your relationships now, you’ll establish a network for possible job opportunities and even advice in the future. Of course, be sure to repay any favors, as career development can present challenges for everyone at one point or another.

Network Support Systems

The people you meet at your volunteer position will also serve as your support system when it comes to searching for and finding jobs after college. The initial search can be difficult, but your fellow volunteers may come across job opportunities that don’t fit their needs. They can then pass this information along to you. Whether you find success in your job hunt immediately or someone else from your network does, you can exchange ideas and share advice. For instance, take a look at each other’s resumes and offer interview tips to one another. This way, everyone in the network can benefit from shared knowledge and experience, and will know what to expect when applying for similar jobs.

4 Valuable Lessons You’ll Learn From Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting educational opportunity offered to many college and university students. In study abroad programs, students can live and attend university in a different country to explore new cultures and different ways of learning. Yet, most students learn more outside of the classroom than they do through the study abroad curriculum itself. Oftentimes, it’s the lessons students learn about living independently and exploring a new culture that provide lifelong value. Discover the true learnings you can expect to gain from living abroad below.

The Importance of Independence

When you travel to live and study in a country where you don’t have friends or family, you are truly on your own. Many students are at least a little intimidated by this prospect at first. Yet, living abroad on your own offers the greatest opportunity to be independent and forge your own path. The experience will help you grow, adapt well, take better care of yourself, make smart decisions, and independently find solutions to problems. Moreover, it provides the freedom to be yourself, set your own pace, and explore your interests. Independence also boosts confidence, inspiring you to take calculated risks and potentially become more adventurous — which brings us to our next point.

How to Embrace Adventure

Living abroad will provide countless opportunities for sightseeing and adventurous explorations. Remember, studying in a foreign land isn’t just about studying. In fact, you can learn a great deal about a new place and its people by exploring famous sights and landmarks. Of course, during your time abroad, you’ll have plenty of time to explore both the famous sights as well as those off the beaten path.

Taking tours and engaging in various adventures might also help broaden your horizons. Pushing your limits could help you conquer fears, learn something new about yourself or others, or create memorable experiences. These are lessons you can bring back home with you, and could even be applied to an experience as simple as embracing Ottawa student housing opportunities with new roommates.

 The Beauty of Being Flexible

Flexibility, or ‘going with the flow,’ is tremendously advantageous throughout life’s many unexpected twists and turns. For example, it can:

• Help reduce or prevent anxiety or stress
• Improve your ability to find solutions to complex problems
• Make you more socially adept
• Increase confidence

When you’re in an unfamiliar environment, you’re forced to become more flexible, since your typical routine is disrupted. Ultimately, this helps you cope and adapt better, allowing you to learn more in your new environment. Being flexible can also help you implement a new language faster while studying abroad. Back home, it can help you navigate challenging or unforeseen circumstances as they arise without losing sight of your goals.

How to Make New Friends

No matter where you go or how long you’ll stay, making friends is always a valuable way to spend your time. Developing new friendships will enhance your social and cultural experiences. Friends who are native to the country can also make your stay easier and more interesting by educating you on the local culture and language. They can also help you become comfortable with your new surroundings, introducing you to various:

• Historical sights and cultural landmarks
• Local restaurants and retail shops
• Nightclubs and bars
• Parks and other recreational areas
• Local transportation
• Movie theatres and other entertainment venues
• Banks

If you become friends with other students, they could give you the low down on your new university and share some useful tips. Of course, becoming friends with other students who are also studying abroad can provide a support system, too. Either way, making new friends may seem intimidating at first, but after your first experience, you’ll soon find how easy it is to bond with like-minded students. This lesson can be carried with you through the rest of your educational experiences, career, and beyond.

Tips For Move-In Day

Move-in day can be stressful, especially if you’re coming from out of town. Yet, with some strategic planning, many of your worries can be alleviated. This list of helpful tips will guide you through moving into your new temporary home without any hassle.

Move-In Before Moving Day

If the option is available, try to move into your Ottawa student housing prior to move-in day. Some student rentals offer alternative move-in days for those coming from out of town, or for students who would simply prefer to move in sooner to avoid the rush. By moving in a day or so early, you can avoid long lines and crowded parking lots. Plus, while everyone else is moving in, you’ll already be at home relaxing with your feet up.

Arrive Early

If you can't move in on an alternate date, arrive at your student housing rental as early as you can. This way, you’ll avoid most of the traffic and parking around the building. Of course, be sure to follow instructions as provided by the staff and never leave your car or personal items unattended.

Bring Tools

For the utmost convenience, prepare a box with the essential items that you'll need while unpacking, such as scissors, duct tape, markers, and basic tools. Be sure to bring paper towels and spray to wipe down the room before unpacking. Basic tools such as screwdrivers will also come in handy if you plan on putting any furniture together upon moving in.

Dress for Move-In Day

Wear casual clothing that's comfortable and allows you to move around. Make sure you're also wearing comfortable shoes because you may have to go up and down lots of stairs. You'll be lugging boxes, bags, and other items up and down and back and forth, so make sure you've worn the appropriate clothing.

Prop Your Door Open

Depending on the building’s security rules, you may not be allowed to prop open any of the building’s main entry doors. Yet, you can prop open your apartment door with a doorstop or heavy item. For the protection of your valuables, you won’t want to do this for too long. Yet, for a brief period of time, it will be a huge help when you're bringing items inside.

With an open door, you may also make some friends on your first day in your new home, as neighbours might want to stop in and introduce themselves.

Meet Your Roommates

If you will have roommates, it's important to introduce yourself as soon as possible so that they know you're friendly. This will make the living situation much more comfortable, as you’ll be able to break the ice quickly with your new roommate and get any initial awkwardness out of the way.

Plan to Go Shopping

After you unpack, you may need to go shopping for a few last-minute items. You might also want to make a stop at the grocery store to fill your refrigerator with lots of treats and wholesome snacks so that you don't have to worry about feeding yourself through the first week of classes.

RELAXING WAYS TO DE-STRESS IN UNIVERSITY

Stress is an unfortunate but common part of university life. In fact, every university student experiences stress at some point, in some form. This stress could be related to academics, social struggles, relationships, homesickness, a housing dilemma, or a new environment. Whatever the source, stress can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. It can also cause physical and mental health problems. Unfortunately, stress and its related health problems can be worse for some students than others, and in some cases, it can be overwhelming. Relaxation is one of the most effective ways to de-stress – check out a few relaxation techniques below.

Practice Meditation and Deep Breathing

Meditation is designed to be relaxing. It also improves focus, mental agility, critical thinking, and mental clarity – all things you will need as a university student – and it’s beneficial to mental and physical health. Improved mental health and performance can help improve your academic performance, and you can practice on your own, seek guidance, or use guided meditations. Guided meditations are the best options, as they’re readily available and can easily be downloaded to or accessed on your computer or mobile device. They’re also the best introduction to meditative practices. There are even some guided meditations designed for deep relaxation and stress relief. Deep breathing exercises offer similar benefits to meditation and can also be found in guided forms online or on mobile apps, as well.

Use Essential Oils

Pure essential oils like lavender, bergamot, chamomile, ylang ylang, vetiver, and rose are perfect for relaxation and stress relief. There are also essential oil mixes specifically designed for reducing stress. For stress relief, these oils can be applied topically, inhaled, added to a bath, or diffused. Within minutes, the smell of one or a combination of oils can provide a calming effect. For the greatest effects, add your selected oil(s) to a diffuser or a bath or apply it topically. If you're applying an oil topically, be sure to combine it with a carrier oil, like coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond to prevent skin irritation. On the other hand, a nice relaxing bath with calming essential oils is a great way to unwind after a busy day.

Listen to Music

Music can be inspirational and relaxing. It allows your mind to wonder, removing stressful thoughts, worries, and other unpleasantries. There’s even music and musical sounds specifically designed for stress relief, such as certain binaural beats. Of course, some music genres are inherently relaxing, like jazz and classical, which can be even more de-stressing, and some other genres can also help improve mental clarity and focus. No matter the type of music you prefer, listening to any music for at least five minutes can help to reduce stress, simply because of the general pleasurable effects that listening to music can offer.

There are many ways to relax and each person will have their own version of what it is that they find relaxing, but don't forget that a comfortable, safe environment is also key to relaxation and de-stressing. Our Ottawa student housing provides comfortable suites with private bedrooms, as well as a yoga studio that's perfectly equipped to help you unwind. To book a tour or for more information, please contact us: (613) 912-9800.

Affordable Date Ideas For University Students

Dating in university can be fun, exciting, and full of firsts. For many university students, however, it can also seem expensive. Don't let the fear of hefty restaurant bills and show tickets stop you from dating. There are plenty of ways to date affordably, and affordable or cheap dates can be just as, if not more, romantic than expensive dates.

Small romantic gestures can go a long way, especially if they’re creative. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Share a Romantic Dinner in Your Dorm or Apartment

Daily meal preparation might not always seem fun or easy, but a cool date can make the effort totally worthwhile. Make it more romantic by adding a theme, such as something that represents how you met, where you met, or something special that the two of you share. A dinner of chili, gingerbread cookies, and warm drinks could represent warmth and meeting in the winter or a shared love of the winter. Maybe your date loves to travel and a meal that includes foods from their favourite place will win you major brownie points. If you really want to make an impression, decorate your suite or university residence to go with the theme.

Binge Watch Their Favourite Movies or TV Shows

For a student on a budget, even going to the movies can be expensive. Luckily, streaming services, like Netflix, have plenty of films and TV shows to binge on. Find out which ones are your date’s favourite and invite them over for a binge-a-thon. Make your space cozy and don’t forget the snacks!

Plan a Romantic Picnic

It’s winter in Canada, so a picnic in the park is out of the question, but it doesn’t mean that picnics in general are out of the question. No matter the time of year or general setting, a picnic date is always a romantic idea. Since it’s cold outside, you could set your picnic up inside. In fact, you could have a picnic in either of your apartments, suites or dorm, where the weather is nice and you don’t mind the cold, you and your date could have a 'freeze out' picnic outdoors. Remember to dress for the weather with warm clothing and make sure your picnic basket includes warm, comforting food and drink. There’s nothing sweeter than sharing a warm thermos of hot chocolate and a blanket!

Attend a School Event

Most universities have school events happening year round. Plays, sporting events, school-sponsored concerts, etc. are great settings for dates. An exciting event with a fun atmosphere is also a great place to break the ice and ward off date-related nervousness. There’s also the added benefit of super cheap or free event tickets.

Use Your Student Discounts

If you’re determined to show your date a good time outside of campus, make sure to use your student discounts. These discounts will allow you to take your date to a movie, dinner, or out for a drink at cheaper prices. If you live at 1Eleven, take advantage of your resident discount card and save at several local businesses, as well. To make the date even more interesting and fun, visit multiple places, taking advantage of many discounts, and turning your date into several cool mini dates.