Exec Corner: Get involved and have fun at Fanshawe!

So the semester is winding down but it's never too late to get involved, especially if you're returning in January. Getting involved at Fanshawe will not only make your time here more enjoyable but it will make it more worthwhile. I speak from experience, as I have sat on Student Council for about a year and a half now. It really has taken my college experience to an entirely different level. I'm going to tell you about a few things I have been involved in and really have enjoyed.

Work on campus — The best thing of all for me has been working on campus. Mainly because of where I work; I work for you at the Student Union. Working with fellow students on a daily basis has not only been uplifting but a lot of fun. There are hundreds of part-time jobs available on campus for students. The best way to view the jobs available is to visit www.fanshawec.ca/careers/default. Here you will find a listing of all the jobs available at Fanshawe. Most of the employment offered is through the work/study program. If you need help filling out your work/study application you can call me and I'll be glad to help.

Athletics — This is an area I've had the chance to be involved myself. I was on the extramural Rugby Team last year and this year I'm fitting some intramural volleyball in when I can. This is a great chance to get your class members together outside of class, and if you don't have enough members to start your own team you can be put on an existing team. If you are interested in seeing what sports are still available and what will be starting next semester just visit the athletics desk in J building.

Student host — I have also participated in this program and I have loved it. You will be paired up with an international student to be their conversation partner. You hang out with your partner once or twice a week, obviously depending on your schedules. This can be super fun to get to know a person from across the world. It gives you a chance to see a different culture, gain experience for your resume and if you ever decide to travel to that country you have a wonderful international connection.

Well, I haven't had a chance to experience everything first hand, but believe, me I try. Here are some more great ways to enhance your time here.

Peer tutoring — It is the perfect time to become a peer tutor, as exams will approach quickly. If you excel in a certain subject, are motivated and are interested in helping other students this is a great way to help others. And the kicker is, you get paid!

Class rep — Approach your program co-coordinator to see if a class representative has been chosen. There are still many classes who do not have a representative. As a class rep you would be responsible for attending a divisional meeting once a month to voice your class's opinions to your division rep that will in turn bring it to SAC (Student Administrative Council). This is a great way to get involved as you get an opportunity to meet a lot of people through helping make there time here easier. It also often opens up to other opportunities such as possibly being a divisional rep next fall.

Clubs — This is a chance to get involved in your very own idea. Create a club and invite your friends. The FSU offers meeting space and storage in the Student Centre. This is your chance to use some of those wonderful leadership skills you've been developing! If you're interested come up to SC2001 or call 519.452.4109 x.6305.

FAB (Fanshawe Activities Board) — This will give to a chance to have a say in the events and activities that go on here. You will be involved in creating ideas and possibly helping with the events themselves. FAB meets every other Monday (next meeting-Nov.28) in the Alumni Lounge located on the second floor of the student centre. If you have any questions in regards to FAB call 519.452.4109 ext.6303.

Volunteer at the sharing shop — The sharing shop is a student-operated food/clothing bank. It is open to students in need of assistance with food, clothing and household supplies. Volunteers are needed and this is a nice way to give back to the community right here at Fanshawe. Go to F2010 or call 452-4282 if you are interested in being a volunteer.

There are many more ways to be a real part of Fanshawe. Keep your eyes peeled for something that sounds right for you. Make the most of your time at Fanshawe, and get involved!