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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

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
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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
9200
Members Joined

 

2199
230
Projects Created

 

88
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 person flexing
Blog
Just Like Bunko: Learning Strengths

Everyone has weaknesses. But its focusing on your strengths that grant you success in life.

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.

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Podcast
Building Community

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
Ronald Yeung at his workstation
Blog
Safeguarding Canadians

Ronald spent his co-op working at the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and describes the importance and benefits of working in the public sector. 

Elinor McNamee-Annett at her workstation
Blog
It’s All Related

Elinor worked in the External Relations Department of Parks Canada and explains how this was the right choice for her as an International Studies student.

Picture of Science World and its reflection on False Creek
Blog
How Do Snakes Poop? And Other Curious Questions a Science Facilitator Co-op Student Could Ask You

For her first co-op, SFU Biology and English student Kristina Charania headed to the heart of Vancouver to work as a Science Facilitator at Science World for four months. Read all about her co-op adventures and challenges under the dome!

Picture of a poster on the wall
Blog
The Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia

The Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia (NCCABC) provides culturally appropriate services to aboriginal people and communities consistent with their needs. 

A clip art image of three faceless people standing next to each other. A person in the middle has a grey face and orange body, while the remaining people have an orange face and grey body.
Blog
Becoming the Leader You Want to Be

Whether in the workplace or at school, we’ve all come across difficult personality types. Read on to find out how you can turn those interactions into positive experiences.

a computer screen showcasing a man holding binoculars with Facebook icons as the lens
Blog
Interview with a Recruiter

Ever wondered what it would be like to be interviewed by Facebook?  Bradley Sutherland, a recent graduate from SFU’s Interactive Arts and Technology and a specialist in interactive design, was selected to be interviewed by the social media giant.  Bradley shared this 3 part interview experience with the OLC.

Emily
Blog
Think Co-op Isn't For You? 4 Excuses You Need to Burn Right Now

As Emily Taylor, a senior Communication Co-op student says, "Reality check: a degree doesn’t guarantee a job. Vancouver communications, marketing and writing jobs aren’t waiting for you in the stands at Convocation. You’ve got to hunt for them, and Co-op is your open door. " Read on for compelling evidence of how Co-op can benefit you - regardless of what you've been led to believe!

Equality vs Justice
Blog
Sensitive Topics: White Privilege

Acknowledging that white privilege exists is the first step to equality and justice for all.

Natalie, author, smiling
Blog
Making the Most of the End of Term Project

Co-op students are required to do either a project or presentation to complete their co-op requirements at the end of their work term.  As a communications student, Natalie did not know what to expect the first time she presented her PowerPoint presentation for her project.  Read on so you can have an idea of what to expect for yours!   

Kettlebells at Kiki's Gym
Blog
My Co-op Experience with Performance Institute

"What do you want to do with your degree?” It’s not a simple question, but the place you find your answer can surprise you. Read as Kiki goes through her co-op experience to find out more.

Tauseef
Blog
Stepping in the Power Industry: Co-op with Hydro One

Tauseef Alwaris recently changed his major from “Electronics Engineering” to “high voltage Electrical Engineering” because of his various co-ops, speaking to different people, and his educational experiences.  He reflects and shares both how and why he decided to make this change and how Hydro One helped his decision.

Engineer Designing Equipment
Blog
Engineering My Co-op Journey

In this article, Mehul shares his Co-op journey with us and let's us in on the secrets of getting a Co-op! 

Two people are holding hands.
Blog
Why Volunteering is Sometimes Better Than Working for Pay

Why work for free? Kim shares her thoughts on why volunteering can sometimes be better than working a paid job when it comes to career exploration! 

Two students are entering the office of SFU Career and Volunteer Services.
Blog
Reflecting on My Experience as a Career Peer Educator

Ever wonder what it’s like to be a Career Peer Educator? Find out what you can gain both personally and professionally! 

A woman is arranging sticky notes on a whiteboard, while other people are working on their desks and looking at the whiteboard.
Blog
Top 5 Tips to Enhance Your Summer Break

Wondering what activities are available this summer to keep your brain busy while giving you a much needed break from school? Read on to learn the Top 5 Tips to enhance your summer break! 

The image shows text that states, “Student Services Presents: Passport to Leadership."
Blog
Passport to Leadership – Starting Your Leadership Journey

Delivered over five different workshops (one every two weeks), Passport to Leadership aims to introduce students to basic leadership skills and show them the various ways to get involved around campus.

A woman getting a business card from employer
Blog
Top 5 Post Interview Tips to Land You the Job

Wonder how you can stand out against other candidates to land your perfect summer job? Check out the 5 post interview tips and tricks to help you leave a lasting impression with the hiring manager.

A student looking at camera with a computer
Blog
4 Tips For Engaging With People

Engaging with your community means first effectively communicating with those around you. Kenny shares some tips on how to do this!

A Key to team sucess
Blog
Working on a Team: Five Keys to Success

You’ve got to that new stage in your life as a new employee. But as a new hire, you may feel somewhat out of place on what may be an established team. So, read on to find out five ways to successfully blend in.

Team Success
Blog
Working on a Team: Five Keys to Success

You’ve got to that new stage in your life as a new employee. But as a new hire, you may feel somewhat out of place on what may be an established team. So, read on to find out five ways to successfully blend in.

Portrait of Christina
Blog
How to Make the Best of Your Co-op Work Term

After the exciting and terrifying process of applying to jobs, landing interviews, and finally accepting a job offer, I started to settle in to my new job in the Communication department of the Canadian Mental Health Association. With a solid goal in mind, each day became a new challenge for me to rise and make myself known. Here are the tips I followed that made my placement meaningful to both my employer and I.

Picture of kenny yang working at a computer
Blog
4 Tips For Engaging With People

Engaging with your community means first effectively communicating with those around you. Kenny shares some tips on how to do this!

A picture of two person looking away
Blog
Six Tips To Find The Perfect Volunteer Opportunity For You

Emily shares her tips for what you should consider when looking for a volunteer opportunity.

Man and woman staring at something
Blog
Six Tips To Find The Perfect Volunteer Opportunity For You

Emily shares her tips for what you should consider when looking for a volunteer opportunity.

A photo of a interviewer and interviewee
Blog
“Do You Have Any Questions?”

Interviews are a two-way street. They allow employers to find out more about their candidates, and candidates to find out more about the employer. Find out what kind of questions you can ask to maximize your interview. 

Picture of an interview
Blog
“Do You Have Any Questions?”

Interviews are a two-way street. They allow employers to find out more about their candidates, and candidates to find out more about the employer. Find out what kind of questions you can ask to maximize your interview. 

UNYA Banner
Blog
From Athlete To Coach

Tysun shares his story of progressing from Student to Teacher, or more specifically, from Athlete to Coach and shares some advice for those looking to get involved with their community.

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Blog
What Goes On When Your References Are Checked

You did it. You successfully finished the interview, hopefully feeling satisfied. But what about those references you gave to the interviewer – what happens to those now that your interview’s done? Read on to find out!

SFU
Blog
My Experience as a Learning & Writing Peer Educator

Rianne shares what she gained from being a Learning & Writing Peer Educator. Interested in having similar experiences? Apply to the Peer Education Program by April 7th.

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Blog
Backpack to Briefcase 2014

Missed Backpack to Briefcase this year? Find out the advice given by SFU alumni.

A photo of career fair
Blog
Tips to Succeed at a Career Fair From an Employer's Perspective

Ever wondered what organizations look for from students and recent graduates at a career fair? Check out what tips Scotia Bank, Clio, Sun Life Financial, City of Richmond, MyPlanet and Public Outreach have for students to succeed at a career fair.  

Glance at the career fair
Blog
Tips to Succeed at a Career Fair From an Employer's Perspective

Ever wondered what organizations look for from students and recent graduates at a career fair? Check out what tips Scotia Bank, Clio, Sun Life Financial, City of Richmond, MyPlanet and Public Outreach have for students to succeed at a career fair.  

A photo of the author smiling
Blog
Should You Stay or Should You Go? 8 Gifs to Help You Decide!

Having trouble deciding to whether stay local or move abroad for your co-op placement? Read through SFU Communication Co-op student Samantha's tips on how to make an educated decision when it comes to going abroad for co-op!

Picture of Career Fair
Blog
Six Key Tips for Creating Connections at Career Fairs

Career fairs are no doubt stressful experiences for a range of people, but there are ways to ease the stress. If you want to create meaningful connections with organizations at the fair (with less stress), keep on reading to discover some useful tips.                           

Christiane smiling
Blog
Spring: Those Little Places

In the winter of 2013, SFU Geography student Christiane Pulluau trekked to La Paz, Bolivia to work with a CED (Community Economic Development) group. In her final instalment she shares some of her favourite places.

christiane with co-workers
Blog
March: Arts and Culture

In the winter of 2013, SFU Geography student Christiane Pulluau trekked to La Paz, Bolivia to work with a CED (Community Economic Development) group. She shared her diary entries with us, and we present the third insallment: Arts and Culture in March.

Person writing in a folder
Blog
How To Be A G.R.E.A.T. Volunteer!

Kim shares five attributes that all volunteers should have in order to be considered G.R.E.A.T.! Make sure to implement these next time you get involved!

Group of elderly Bolivians
Blog
February: A Little Bird Told Me

In the winder of 2013, SFU Geography student Christiane Pulluau trekked to La Paz, Bolivia to work with a CED (Community Economic Development) group. She shared her diary entries with us, this is part two of her adventure.

Image of beach; Copacabana
Blog
February: Arrivals and Carnaval Times

In the winter of 2013, SFU Geography student Christiane Pulluau trekked to La Paz, Bolivia to work with a CED (Community Economic Development) group. She shared her diary entries with us, and part one is featured here.

Yuka smiling over a tank of sharks she is taking care of
Blog
Student Profile: Biology Student Yuka Obayashi

Biology Co-op student Yuka Obayashi returned from her self-directed International Co-op at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in the Kunigami District of Okinawa, Japan with a new-found appreciation for marine wildlife.

Multiple guys in suits jumping in unison
Blog
Top 3 Tips to Create Your Own Luck for the Workplace

Are you finding that getting your dream job is unattainable and is only for the “lucky ones?” Create your own opportunities and luck when it comes to the workplace and discover how to land a job fresh out of university.