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SPRING CLEANING!

Our team is doing some spring cleaning starting with user accounts. Login using your CAS credentials for instructions. We appreciate your speedy action so we can move onto other new and exciting initiatives over the summer.

Welcome to the

OLC!

BY STUDENTS, FOR STUDENTS

Join the community using your SFU CAS account.

Join the community using your SFU CAS account. Then, complete your registration by clicking on your name located in the top right corner of the page.

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CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Share Your SFU Story 

Have a story to share about your time at SFU? Add your voice to the ever-expanding gallery of community stories on our SFU Stories page! Take about 15 minutes to reflect on your experiences at SFU, including, but not limited to, involvement in clubs, student unions, peer mentorship, and work opportunities. Share your story to educate, inspire, and connect the SFU community. Submissions are welcome year-round, from all years and faculties.

Everyone has a story! What's yours?

SUBMIT

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Multilingual SFU

SFU students (graduate and undergraduate,) staff and faculty share their multilingual experience and welcome you to multilingual week at SFU. Do you have a multilingual story to share? Add it to the OLC.

Watch

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Share Your SFU Story 

Have a story to share about your time at SFU? Add your voice to the ever-expanding gallery of community stories on our SFU Stories page! Take about 15 minutes to reflect on your experiences at SFU, including, but not limited to, involvement in clubs, student unions, peer mentorship, and work opportunities. Share your story to educate, inspire, and connect the SFU community. Submissions are welcome year-round, from all years and faculties.

Everyone has a story! What's yours?

SUBMIT

Changing Times: Stories to Inspire Hope and Resilience

 

Image of Priyanka Das
Blog
Discover Your True Self: 7 Tips to Develop Unwavering Self-Belief and Authenticity
Digital Resource Assistant

Take chances as you never know what opportunities may arise. Meet Priyanka Das, a Beedie Co-op student who’s working with SFU’s Communication and Marketing department as a Digital Resource Assistant. Learn more about how she landed her current co-op and other opportunities such as the CEOx1Day finalist by being authentic and believing in their abilities.

VOLUNTEER STORIES

 

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Join our team

The OLC is looking for volunteers for various positions that have a range of time commitments including content creators, editors, UI/UX developers, and website testers. Positions are open for all students hoping to gain valuable experience in writing, website development and management, task and time management, collaboration, communication, and more. There is no deadline to apply as we recruit year-round!

APPLY

FEATURED

Chinmayee's Picks

Chinmayee's Picks

OLC has things to help students go pro. Having been part of the OLC's technical team and coming from a tech background myself, I tend to skim through tech-related articles first, diving deeper into the ones that pique my interest. I've compiled a list of my favourite finds from the OLC website, considering them valuable assets for fellow students.

Jared's Picks

Jared's Picks

Working as an editor for the OLC has been such a positive learning experience and has help me connect with so many unique and engaging stories. I would like to share some of my favourite pieces that I had the pleasure of working on. Yes, their grammar and spelling is great and their writing voice is very personal but each of these had something special.

Serena's Picks

Serena's Picks

It's been an amazing four months as a Copy Editor here at the OLC. I've had the chance to work on a variety of content, and it's been quite a journey. The OLC is a unique space where students can explore and contribute to a wide range of topics. Choosing my top picks was tough with so much good stuff, but here are three pieces that really stood out to me.

FEATURED

Hustle Culture

Hustle Culture

When should you stop and take a break? How much work is too much work? In this episode of Diving Into the Everyday, join us as we explore what is hustle culture, looking at its rise in exposure, and why a person may feel this pressure to participate.

Experiencing A New Culture In Mexico

Experiencing A New Culture In Mexico

I learned a lot more about myself – new interests, being more adaptable, future ambitions, etc. It was one of the most unique and remarkable experiences in my lifetime.

7 Ways to Have a Successful Meeting With Your Supervisor or Team

7 Ways to Have a Successful Meeting With Your Supervisor or Team

If you are struggling to facilitate or actively participate in meetings, you are not alone, as many students share the same struggle in school projects, student clubs and the workplace.

person laughing

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Job Search in a Pandemic

New episodes of Career Conversations from SFU Career and Volunteer Services are released every Tuesday on the OLC. Tune in see your most burning questions about the world of work, volunteering, and career exploration answered by guests from diverse professional backgrounds and organizations across Canada.

Episode 3 features Kristina Lee, Director of the IT Division at Impact Recruitment. You don't want to miss her expert tips for job searching during the pandemic and how you can best show off your soft skills to employers.

Watch
person laughing

NEW VIDEO SERIES

Job Search in a Pandemic

New episodes of Career Conversations from SFU Career and Volunteer Services are released every Tuesday on the OLC. Tune in see your most burning questions about the world of work, volunteering, and career exploration answered by guests from diverse professional backgrounds and organizations across Canada.

Episode 3 features Kristina Lee, Director of the IT Division at Impact Recruitment. You don't want to miss her expert tips for job searching during the pandemic and how you can best show off your soft skills to employers.

Watch

NEW POST

Activism Burnout: An Interview with Registered Clinical Counsellors

In light of the increased visibility of injustices around the world, taking a stand and contributing to social justice is becoming more prominent in our everyday lives. As you learn and advocate about different injustices, you may experience activism burnout with added stressors such as balancing work, personal life, school, and extracurricular activities. SFU Health Peers interview Counsellors at Health and Counselling Services for advice.

Read

NEW POST

Why You Should Consider Submitting an SFU Story to the OLC

SFU Stories on the OLC are short-form, Instagram-style, narrative stories that help to build a welcoming SFU community. No matter how big or small, every story has something to offer. Share your story today!

Read

NEW POST

I’m Starting a Minor Late Into My Degree... Now What?

One of our OLC team members, Brianna Tsang, shares her experience of deciding her minor in her 3rd year at SFU. "The knowledge and genuine connections made throughout this process has been an amazing experience and opportunity to have."

Read

NEW POST

Social Media Addiction & Screen Fatigue: A Survival Guide for Jobs in Social Media

When it comes to social media and digital marketing positions, it’s easy to be blinded by the positives. After all, many Communication majors are fascinated by digital marketing and algorithms— and if you’re a digital native, creating social media content might already be second nature to you. Whether you manage social media for your organization or create external content, there are a few bonuses to consider.

Read

NEW STUDENT PODCAST

On the Spot with the OLC

The OLC team is extremely excited to introduce a brand new podcast titled On the Spot with the OLC. Your hosts, Mehtaab and Terae, discuss important topics revolving around community, engagement, education and overall life advice! Within these 12 episodes, your hosts aim to bring a well rounded perspective to a variety of topics as they believe they can provide insightful knowledge about what it's like to be an SFU student. Please make sure to have a listen!

Listen to Episode 1: Creating Community at SFU

NEW PODCAST ON THE OLC

StudioBytes

Welcome to Studio Bytes! A podcast inspired by the energy of the SIAT Studios and the memories students make in those spaces. This podcast invites Alumni back into the studio and we get to learn about their experiences at SIAT and their lives after. In Episode 2 meet SFU Alumni Marie Cheung who shares her experience at SFU, her life post SFU and her time in Europe

Listen to Episode 2: What is Service Design?

Login to Provide your Feedback!

Did you know that each landing page on the site has a feedback section for logged in users? We use this information to discover and fix issues, consider site improvements and addition of new features. Our tech team is focused on feature improvements this summer, so share your input to direct changes to the OLC.

LOGIN

ABOUT

Our Learning Community

SFU's Our Learning Community has an incredible range of content created by and for the SFU community. This includes diverse and authentic stories, which show a range of inspirational knowledge sharing happening between students, as well as handy tools that help with learning anywhere and everywhere you are.
 
Discover how you can contribute to our ever-expanding learning community.

 

CONTRIBUTE
11360
Members Joined

 

2227
231
Projects Created

 

92
Series Compiled

 

EXPLORE

Recognizing that our SFU community members are versatile storytellers, the new OLC has expanded how you can tell your story. Come take a look by exploring into this brand new range of content curated by our editors; this includes Blogs, SFU Stories, Videos, and Podcasts. And remember, no matter where you are in your learning journey at SFU, we want to hear your story! Learn more on how you can contribute to the OLC.

 

 

EXPLORE
a phone screen showcasing Amazon stocks rising
Blog
Get Your Side Hustle On: A Student's Guide to Part-Time Work

As she puts it, grad student Srijani Datta has been a student for most of her life. To support her love of academia she has worked as a reporter, tutor, translator, transcriber, and content writer. Develop your own side-hustle with her tips. 

A woman standing with a cardboard box on her head
Blog
How to Navigate Student Mindset Traps

When students enter their first or second Co-op work term, there can be a risk of falling into student mindset traps. These are the habits we pick up as students that are detrimental to our professional performance and development. Read on to learn more about how Bowen learned to avoid student mindset traps after four Co-op semesters working for three different companies.

READ

LEARN

SHARE

CONTRIBUTE

Videos

Read

Learn

Share

Contribute

There is so much to explore on the new OLC!

So, browse around and have fun with the new learning and storytelling tools. Found something not working?

EXPLORE

Recognizing that our SFU community members are versatile storytellers, the new OLC has expanded how you can tell your story. Come take a look by exploring this wider range of content including Blogs, SFU Stories, Videos, Experiential Learning Experiences, and Podcasts. And remember, no matter where you are in your learning journey at SFU, we want to hear your story! Learn more on how you can contribute to the OLC.

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THE LATEST

Catch up on the latest and freshest content from the SFU OLC. You're bound to find a fresh new perspective, the most current advice, and recently published stories that are sure to inspire you.

 

 

THE LATEST
interviewers interviewing a candidate
Blog
Interviewee to Interviewer

Natalie faces a new experience in her role as SFU Food Bank Coordinator: Conducting interviews. After only a few short months, she's on the other side of the table, find out how it went.

a birds eye view of a text saying "Passion Led Us Here" on the sidewalk
Blog
How I Put My Blogging Passion to Work

Natalie's been writing OLC blogs for awhile now, so she was excited to be able to bring her blogging skills to her new Co-op job. Now she's launched the SFU Food Bank Blog.

Lauren
Blog
Lauren's Summer at Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Science City

Lauren turned to international Co-op as a way to continue gaining work experience while exploring the world. Read about her experience working for a high end international hotel chain in China.

Construction workers
Blog
Diversify Yourself While You Can

For most engineering students, three semesters of Co-op work is a requirement for graduation. Follow Scott on his Co-op journey as he gradually discovers his passions by taking on multiple Co-op opportunities. 

Aboriginal Human Resource Council Banner
Blog
Aboriginal Inclusion Network Luncheon

The CEO & President of the Aboriginal Human Resource Council, Kelly J Lendsay will be speaking to Indigenous students about how the Aboriginal Inclusion network can help you find the right job, the right employer and build a career path that feeds your passion and emphasizes your talent.

Teradici employees at an Expo
Blog
Working at Teradici

Hard work pays off. Read about how Pevisha's dedication to applying to multiple co-op positions finally paid off when Teradici reached out to her! 

a tablet and a phone screen displaying cover letter and linkedin
Blog
Using Online Tools (And Social Media) For Your Job Search

Finding a job these days isn’t an easy task. You’ve got lots of cover letters to write, you have to tailor your resume for each position, you have interviews to prepare for, and that’s only covering the ‘mandatory’ steps. But what can you do to set yourself apart from other candidates?

a student working on her laptop and drinking coffee
Blog
How Can You Stand Out in the Job Market with a Digital Resume?

Want to learn more about portfolios and having a professional image online? Check out this blog on building a digital resume and increasing your competitiveness in the job market!

Two women crossing their arms and facing each other.
Blog
10 Must-Have Clothing Items for Work

Putting together a wardrobe of work-friendly options can be intimidating, especially if your a student or recent grad with a limited budget. Elizabeth provides 10 must-have items to transform your closet without going broke.

Person in a sweater shrugging
Blog
What Not To Wear: Office Edition

As almost anyone whose spent time in an office can attest, some people just do not know how to dress approporately for their workplace or a job interview. We asked SFU students, staff and alumni to share some of their real-life examples of what not to wear.

Mountains
Blog
Walk the Talk

"The earth does not need us as we need her. I am grateful for this life and that I have the opportunity to stand with my brothers and sisters." Christina found 50 ways to help the planet for future generations.

A person writing in a folder
Blog
My First Visit: Why Office Hours Matter

The E-Word Blog is a series that features a student perspective on SFU’s various engagement opportunities. Follow our blogger Christina as she tries all that SFU has to offer in her effort to become “truly engaged”.

a guy browsing linkedin feed on his ipad
Blog
Making Meaningful Online Connections With Employers

Discover how to best utilize your online presence to grow your career and network!

Two friends talking
Blog
The Art of Conversation

Interacting with others happens on a daily basis, whether it is at a business meeting, presentation, or an informal conversation with a friend or co-worker.  Mastering this skill can lead to better relationships between co-workers, friends and clients.

Alissa smiling
Blog
Indigenous Student Success Story: Alissa Derrick

Alissa Derrick is from the Wet’suwet’en Nation located in Moircetown, British Columbia. She is currently in her last year here at SFU, working towards a double minor in Criminology and First Nation Studies.

UA Local 170 Members
Blog
Aboriginal Advancement with UA Local 170

As an Indigenous Student Ambassador Christina was asked to show two potential donors around campus. Joe Shayler representing UA Local 170 and John Mutton, President and CEO of Municipal Solutions were interested in supporting SFU's Indigenous students.

FNSA logo
Blog
Student Association 2012-2013: A Year in Review

Have you ever asked yourself "Who are the FNSA and what exactly do they do here on campus?" Here is a year in review to enable you to gain a better understanding of this student run organization and what they do here at SFU.

a individual presenting in front of their team
Blog
From Volunteer to Manager

Natalie has lots of experience volunteering, but now she's managing volunteers for the first time. Read how she applied lessons she learned from former managers to make the transition with the SFU Food Bank.

SFU Burnaby Campus
Blog
My First day on the Job at TFCSE in SFU

After blogging her way through the interview process, Natalie found another Co-op position, this time right on campus in Maggie Benson Centre, and she's back to share her first days at TFCSE.

Video
Hunter Alacano
Members of Hi Five
Blog
Mental Health and Wellness

On campus, Health and Counseling Services is introducing the Hi F.I.V.E. campaign to eliminate the stigma and prejudice around mental health by: Friendship, Invite conversation, Value everyone’s gift, and Eliminate stigma. 

Empowered Mindset banner
Blog
Empowerment Mindset: Motivating Indigenous Self-reliance

The First Nations Student Association is hosting an evening with best-selling author Calvin Helin on October 24th at Harbour Center. Attendance is free and open to the public.

Luke
Blog
Confidence Through Co-op
Software Engineering Co-op student Alex Moore writes about his final Co-op experience before graduation, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Canada Flag
Blog
To Vote Or Not To Vote: Three Debates

I love thoughtful and passionate debate. Especially about things that are important to me and those around me. I consider myself a Canadian citizen and because of that, I practice my right to vote. I posed the question of the Indigenous vote and was met with several interesting and thought-provoking debates regarding the subject.

Career fair
Blog
Career Exploration: A Lifelong Journey

A career is never set in stone. Read more to find out about career exploration, and how you can use your role as a student to your advantage. It is never too early to start searching...

Road sign saying "Big Chance Just Ahead"
Blog
Happenstance: Exploring Your Career Options

Are you worried about your career path or worried that it is not following your big plan? Plans are not set in stone and can always change course. Read about happenstance and explore your vast career options!     

Top view of the march
Blog
A Walk to Remember

I admit I had some misgivings about the Truth and Reconciliation events happening in Vancouver this week. There are so many layers to unravel and so many systems involved that I couldn’t decide where I belong. I took some time to reflect on what the purposes of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission are, as well as who I am, in order to make a decision on whether or not to participate.

SFU students interacting and networking during the fair
Blog
Three Reasons You Should Attend A Career Fair

You may have heard of the recent BC Job Fairs or attended one, but did you know that SFU has its own career fairs on two campuses? Our school holds an annual BIG Fair in September and a Mini BIG Fair in the Spring semester. 

Picture of boats and buildings
Blog
What Did You Do This Summer?

Welcome back everyone…how was your summer?

Students posing for a picture
Blog
Aboriginal Student for a Day Event

The RSTC Aboriginal Student for a Day event will strive to match secondary students with SFU students that they can “shadow” for a half day of studies. Volunteers and “shadows” will be matched based upon their academic and vocational interests and aspirations.

Exoskeleton
Blog
Shocking Developments with Exoskeletons

Read about Brian's very cool experience at MENVRA designing and building an exoskeleton arm! 

People at a work party
Blog
Manufacturing with a Huge Multicultural “Family” Company

Read about Brandon's experience working in a large manufacturing company and the lessons he learned while working in a big team. 

Alex's coworkers
Blog
A Wonderful Experience at Broadcom
Senior Co-op student, Alex Lung shares his experience at Broadcom, where he spent two work terms in QA Test Platform Development.
person writing in a journal
Blog
Finding Your own Opportunities: Writing a Letter of Introduction

Do you have a dream job, or even a dream company to work for, but you don't know how to approach it? Co-op advisor, Victoria Cottell shares how to write an awesome letter of reccomendation that is relevant to any job seeker.

A graph illustrating a demand curve and a supply curve.
Blog
Does "Not In Demand" = Immoral?

I recently came across an interesting argument. It went something like this: It's immoral to study something that is not in demand according to labour market needs and projections. Here's why I don't think that's true.

Cody Caruso with daughter
Blog
Cody Caruso First Nations Health Authority

Have you considered a career in Health Sciences? Here is some advice from recent graduate Cody Caruso on his journey to employment in the First Nations Health Authority. 

Picture of Cody Caruso with a baby on his back
Blog
Cody Caruso First Nations Health Authority

Have you considered a career in Health Sciences? Here is some advice from recent graduate Cody Caruso on his journey to employment in the First Nations Health Authority. 

IBM Canada Head Office
Blog
How Co-op Adds Value to Any Degree

Read about how Parminder fulfils his passions for computing science as he travels from Punjab to Vancouver and attends SFU as an international student. In this blog, he shares with us his experience as co-op student and how that has helped him achieve his career goals!

A woman standing in front of a Blackberry poster
Blog
Taste of BlackBerry Fruitful for Co-op Students

Read about how SFU students who took part in Co-op work terms at BlackBerry (formerly Research In Motion) – one of the SFU program’s biggest employers – are getting more than a hands-on experience. Many are landing plum positions.

Ji Hoon
Blog
Reflecting on a Co-op Journey with Ji Hoon Choi

After completing five co-op semesters, Ji Hoon Choi looks back at the choices that led him to where he is today: working, studying, and traveling all at once.

Broadcom headquarters
Blog
Mike's Integrated Circuit Development with Broadcom
Michael Leung shares his experience of spending eight months as a co-op student for Broadcom Corporation.