October 2018

FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS ™

Alberta School of Business

OCTOBER 18’ FALL INTO SUCCESS

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Victoria CURRAH

T H O U G H T V S T H O U G H T >>

E X T E R N A L R E L AT I O N S >>

M I S C E L L A N E O U S >>

AI prevalence in our society and the business world: beneficial or harmful & scary?

Meet Alex Hryciw, a Communications Advisor for Mayor Don Iveson.

Lazy Faire explores the most haunted buildings on campus.

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Last year across Canada we hired 100 new business grads. Find out why a Xerox Agency is the right next step after graduation.

Findyourxfactor.ca ©2014 Xerox Corporation. All rights reserved. Xerox®, Xerox and Design®, and Ready For Real Business are trademarks of Xerox Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Xerox Canada Ltd. is the licensee of all the trademarks.

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Table of Contents

CONTENTS

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FASHION Highlights of New York Fashion Week

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FYI Information on MBA, CFA, CPA Designations

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THOUGHT VS. THOUGHT AI Prevalence in our Society & Business World - Beneficial vs. Harmful & Scary?

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Victoria Currah

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EXTERNAL RELATIONS Alex Hryciw

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EVENTS THIS MONTH Design Workshop

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CLUBS CORNER E-club

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EVENTS THIS MONTH RMBS

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GUEST ARTICLE Cannabis Company: (BRNT)

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LAZY CHAT Trish Stringer

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SOCIAL STUDIES BC Fires

MOST HAUNTED BUILDINGS ON CAMPUS

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FACING FEARS

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HOW THANKSGIVING DIFFERS IN DIFFERENT CULTURES & COUNTRIES

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Editor’s Note

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f you didn’t notice by looking around, it’s October now. The falling leaves, the light snow, and everyone stressing out with midterms coming up. Near the end of the month it will be fall. During this season, we’re long into the school year, and the beginning of the year coasting has worn off weeks ago. So, with this month’s theme, we hope we can all FALL INTO SUCCESS! This issue presents articles highlighting topics such as designations, successful business started by ASOB students, and an insight into the job of an assistant to Edmonton’s most famous politician. We also share features relevant to current events and a couple of holidays for this month (if

you count Halloween a holiday). We hope this issue inspires you to try new things, pursue your passions and leave all your hesitations in the past!

Rodvie Barnachea

RODVIE BARNACHEA Editor-in-Chief

Haya Masri HAYA MASRI Editor-in-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS

VALERIE LEOW VP Editorial

DYLAN WEE Photographer

DENISE NGUYEN Writer

JOANNA FADDOUL VP Art & Design

KATIE FITZGERALD VP Editorial

AUSTIN YEE Photographer

TYLER KEFFER Writer

SHANNON WONG Designer

ELIZABETH JUN VP Marketing

DIANE JEON Photographer & Writer

CLEO WILLIAMS Writer

MELANIA ANTOSZKO Designer

ERICA WEE Social Media Director ALEX HO Suits LF Director & Photographer

BETTY VO Designer

FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

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HAYA MASRI Co-Editor-in-Chief

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1. Describe yourself in five words.

Ambitious, organized, creative, honest, collaborative 2. What’s your favourite hobby?

One of my favourite hobbies is writing short stories. As much as I enjoy reading a good book, theres nothing quiet like getting to put my own creative thoughts into words for others to read and enjoy…after all theres only so much talking that I can do.

3. Best study spot on campus?

Business library, main floor by the window.

4. What’s your favourite movie quote?

“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem. Do you understand?” – Jack Sparrow 5. Why did you join Lazy Faire?

Initially I joined Lazy Faire because I was fascinated with the idea of a student run magazine. Writing has always been a passion of mine but seeing it applied into the business world made it all the more interesting!

When I learned more about Lazy Faire, I soon realized that it was more than just articles being published in a magazine each month, it was a source through which to connect students to various businesses, well accomplished individuals, and overall to be a voice for business students. This made the whole organization even more appealing to join!

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DYLAN WEE Photographer

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1. Describe yourself in five words.

I sleep at 10:00 PM 2. What’s your favourite hobby?

Photography 3. Best study spot on campus?

Winspear 4. What’s your favourite movie quote?

“I’m Gatsby” 5. Why did you join Lazy Faire?

To use my photography skills and grow them

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Meet the Team

ELIZABETH JUN VP Marketing

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1. Describe yourself in five words.

I am curious, honest, creative. I am a problem-solver and a-work-inprogress.

2. What’s your favourite hobby?

I loveeeee to be active.... Whether it’s recreational or meant to destress, and whether its working out or playing some volleyball, whatever gets my heart pumping and endorphins releasing, especially if I can do it with friends!

3. Best study spot on campus?

It really depends on what I need to do, and my mood at the time, but the Harry Potter library is a solid quiet spot. When I want to casually people watch, though, any of the lounges in HUB make do.

4. What’s your favourite movie quote?

I don’t know if this counts- in pitch perfect, there’s a part of a number where fat Amy sings “excuse me” and it’s become a lol-worthy addition to a lot of my conversations!

5. Why did you join Lazy Faire?

I hadn’t had a chance to write anything (I don’t count lab reports from my science undergrad years) for years, and I missed having a creative outlet.... Thankfully, I came across Lazy Faire in aBUS 201 seminar announcement and I jumped at the opportunity. I went in excited to write, and I came out with some amazing experiences and truly decent friends.

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Social Studies

BRITISH COLUMBIA WILDFIRES On August 15, 2018, for the second year in a row now, a province-wide state of emergency was declared in British Columbia due to the concerning spread of wildfires. The state of emergency was enacted to support centralization and co-ordination of federal, provincial, and local efforts to manage the fires and protect the communities affected.

Although the province-wide state of emergency due to wildfires last year was in effect for 10 weeks, this year’s only lasted a little over 20 days (originally declared to be in effect for 14 days, but was extended once).

Despite the shorter duration of the province-wide state of emergency, as compared to last year’s, this year’s wildfire season has been the worst yet in terms of total hectares burned from April to early September. British Columbia’s Wildfire Service estimates that around 1,250,383 hectares have burned all across the province, surpassing the record total last year’s wildfires set at 1,216,053 hectares. The total cost of suppressing the wildfires this year is expected to exceed $300 million, marking it as one of the most expensive years on record. However, even though more land was burned this year than last, most of the fires have occurred in remote locations, thus contributing to less property damage and evacuations of affected citizens.

Additionally, while there were 600 or so more fires in 2018 compared to 2017, the unexpected increase in rainfall in June prompted some flooding across most of the southern parts of the province, thus aiding the firefighters’ efforts.

As the smoke from the British Columbia wildfires drifted east into Alberta, the weather forecast for the month of August was sunny skies, high temperatures, and… a lingering layer of smoke and haze that covered every region of the province. A number of high-profile events were forced to either be cancelled, rescheduled, or modified – such as the Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer and the Servus Edmonton Marathon – due to health and safety concerns, as the Environment Canada Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) soared to a 10+ pollution rating at least once in both Edmonton and Calgary. The drifting smoke carried eastward from British Columbia into Alberta was even visible at one point to NASA satellites 1.5 million kilometres away from Earth.

While the increased air pollution was definitely felt throughout Alberta, it was certainly more evident in Vancouver which had near-suffocating smoke hanging over the city and held the AQHI ratings at above average levels.

Only as of early September has the Metro Vancouver regional district lifted its air quality advisory for the area.

Environment Canada is expecting that it would require several more days before a noticeable improvement in air quality would be seen.

With the main bulk of the wildfire crisis over, fire bans have either being rescinded, or at least partially rescinded, in most of the affected regions. The incoming of fall is also forecasted to further improve the air quality, due to the cooler temperatures, higher amounts of precipitation, and bouts of wind blowing the built-up wildfire smoke out of the region.

Written by Valerie Leow

Designed by Shannon Wong

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Fashion

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HIGHLIGHTS OF NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty line debuted its FW 2018 Collection to close off the week, boasting a diverse range of lingerie sizes. Featuring models from the Hadid sisters to pregnant Slick Woods (who reportedly went into labour shortly after her appearance on the Fashion veterans including Kate Moss, Heidi Klum, and runway), the women held hands in solidarity at the end Naomi Campbell were all in attendance to watch today’s of their show to demonstrate their support for the body most famous models, including the runway debut of acceptance movement Fenty stands for. Joining in with Madonna’s daughter Lourdes Leon. The front row star- the movement was Claudia Li’s exclusively Asian linestudded with fashion’s A-listers, but celebrities across up, and Pyer Moss’ all-black casting, to make a point to underrepresentation. the entertainment scene - from rapper Offset to former TV personality Paris Hilton - also had some spotlight as they had a chance to strut down the runway this year as Paying tribute to Kate Spade, whose passing during the models. However, the hot seats were given to rappers summer was felt by fans all over the world, attendees Cardi B and Nicki Minaj, when their long-standing found notes on their seats that read a play on a famous tension became physical as both women were filmed in Kate Spade quote: “She left a little sparkle everywhere she went.” an altercation.

Proving that the art of fashion isn’t stopping for anyone anytime soon, New York Fashion Week 2018 was another unforgettable success this year. Whether it was on or off the runway, here are some of this year’s highlights.

A theme that was prominent, according to Glamour magazine, was the call for citizens to vote. Encouragement for action was blatant, just in time for election season in New York: “Vote for Cynthia” was written on the pieces created by designer Christian Siriano in support for Cynthia Nixon’s Governor candidacy. Of course, there was also buzz about the American senate scandal. "Tell Your Senator No on Kavanaugh," read designer Jeremy Scott’s shirt.

Bold and bright looks were plentiful this year in more than a handful of collections, with neon palettes doing what they do best: stand out. Even off the runway, offduty models and other VIP guests weren’t afraid of the rainy September weather.

Written by Denise Ngyuen

Designed by Fatima Mohamed

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FYI

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MBA, CPA, CFA etc.

by Cleo Williams

After spending 4+ years working towards an undergraduate degree and planning your career, jumping into additional education doesn’t always seem like the obvious choice. However, furthering your education after graduation is a great way to expand your knowledge. Additionally, it’s common to pursue upper-level education after spending a few years in the workforce, so there’s no need to hop right into more classes after graduation. Listed below are some of the most popular internationally-recognized programs and certifications to get after completing a bachelor’s degree.

Master’s in Business Administration (MBA):

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA):

Becoming a CPA is a popular decision among graduates and can open The MBA is the most popular pro- the door to great career growth. The steps to getting this certification infessional degree and helps indi- clude taking CPA preparatory classes that provide the required learning viduals hone their business skills. to be admitted to the CPA Professional Education Program. In Canada, the Professional Education Program contains 2 core classes, 2 electives Most MBA programs, including and 2 capstones which are followed by a final exam. In order to enter the one offered at the ASoB, takes the program a certain amount of accounting experience is required.

2 years but there are many flexible options that allow part-time or fast-tracked MBA studies. The proChartered Financial Analyst gram focuses on a number of core (CFA): classes, while giving students the In order to earn a CFA charter, candidates opportunity to specialize in their must follow an assigned curriculum and personal areas of interest. Many complete three levels of exams. The first MBA programs also contain an level is offered bi-annually in December element of real-world experience, and June, while the other two exams are only offered once a year in June. The exams letting students learn first-hand cover topics such as money management, from business situations.

Project Management Professional (PMP):

To earn this certification you must become a member of the Project Management Institute and complete a 200 multiple—choice question exam. To be eligible for this certificate after graduation, one must have 4,500 hours of directing projects and 35 hours of project management education. Since the course in online, the time to finish varies per person. The average time required to complete the course is approximately 2 months.

ethics, economics, and accounting. The aim of the program is to assess the capabilities and expertise of financial analysis.

To be an eligible candidate, one must have completed 4 years of work experience, have a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of their bachelor’s degree, or a total of 4 years doing a combination of school and work experience.

Written by Cleo Williams

Designed by Shannon Wong

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Thought vs. Thought

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AI Prevalence in Our Society HARMFUL

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can recall a time when I was a young child, one of my family members said, “by the time you’re an adult, there will be killer robots roaming the streets.” Although we are not at that level of prevalence in our society just yet, modern technology has been improving consistently that AI (not killer robots) can be found in our everyday lives.

Such technology can be found in something as simple as a smartphone. A number of phones, like the new Galaxy Note 9, come equipped with AI technology that will enhance your picture taking abilities by being able to “see” what you are looking at and adjust the settings accordingly.

While there certainly are benefits to this technology, it will increasingly take over tasks that humans can just as easily do themselves. It takes away the “human touch” and adds a “robotic touch.” That may be all fine and dandy for something as simple as a picture, but where is the line drawn? Beyond pictures, this technology can be much more far-reaching and have lasting effects.

It has been increasingly discussed that AI will take over jobs typically assigned to humans. While automation has been becoming more and more prominent since even before I was born, it’s likely only going to get worse when they will be able to complete more complex tasks. This has led to proposals for “universal basic income,” as it’s expected for AI to continue to push humans out of the work force and into early retirement, all the while not having the money to provide for basic Written by Tyler Keffer necessities.

Written by Tyler Keffer

Beyond jobs, it’s already been proven that AI can make mistakes. If we refer to Facebook’s newsfeed algorithms that interfered with elections, it can have a lasting effect on our society as a whole. Furthermore, what about the ethics behind it? Who is to

claim responsibility in the event of an accident of a self-driving vehicle? Are we going to pluck the robotics out of the situation and throw them in a cell, or do we blame the passengers? The list of questions regarding not only this specific example, but many more, can lead to heated debate about what is right and what is wrong.

As artificial intelligence continues to become more present in our everyday life, it is more crucial now than ever before that these questions are answered and that we have proper guidelines in place to prepare for such types of outcomes. Whatever the future may hold, whether that be crazy killer robots, job-replacing robots, or something as simple as AI in our electronic devices, it is best to be prepared for any potential consequences that may follow.

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BENEFICIAL

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T

he growing prevalence of Artificial Intelligence in our society is hard for an antsy, old-fashioned human like me to digest.

However, I can even see that AI has the potential to benefit a vast range of industries.

When I thought of AI being integrated into the working world, e-commerce was the first industry that came to mind. A common example is “Amazon recommendations,” where its algorithms determines your next potential purchase through demographic profile, purchasing history, and viewing history. This personalized merchandising greatly increases the conversions from interest to purchase.

The speed, ease and relevance also circle back to the customer, providing an almost magical shopping experience.

A Guess store in Hong Kong takes this AI-boosted retail even further. A Digiday article written by Hilary Milnes details how tech giant Alibaba opened a concept clothing store where machine learning algorithms personalize a customer’s physical shopping experience. Shoppers begin by scanning a code with Alibaba’s Taobao mobile app upon entry to check into the store. When customers touch or pick up a product, the sensor inlaid in its RFID tag notifies a nearby “smart mirror,” and the product’s information is pulled up. This “mirror” is similar to a large touch screen on a kiosk. Here, customers can swipe to view similar options not available in stores, add items to their shopping cart, and receive personalized mix-and-match styling suggestions.

Check-out is done by the mobile app again.

Retail isn’t the only market reaping benefits. Netflix has largely transformed the media and entertainment industry with its consumer science. By tracking viewing habits of its subscriber base, Netflix has created thousands of clusters, or “taste communities,” which are dynamic market segments. These play an instrumental role in Netflix’s recommendation algorithms. The tracked viewing patterns also Written by Diane Jeon

Designed by Melania Antoszko

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Thought vs. Thought

Thought VS Thought

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provide the basis for contextual criteria, where different recommendations are produced for the user depending on the day of the week, the time of day, and the device being used.

For example, Netflix could recommend Stranger Things on your laptop when you’re procrastinating studies on a Thursday night, or Animal Rescue on your phone one Sunday afternoon for when you’re distracting the kids you babysit weekly.

Beyond consumerism, AI is also finding its way into the healthcare industry. A Digitalist Magazine article written by Branwell Moffat says that AI is already used to mine and analyze billions of data records to spot subtle patterns in the progression, diagnosis and treatment of many medical conditions. A recent BBC article detailed how AI developed at the John Radcliffe Hospital in the UK can diagnose scans for heart disease and lung cancer much faster and more accurately than current professionals. The cost savings estimations from the six different trials suggested that the AI system could save more than 300 million pounds in unnecessary operations and treatment of people who had heart attacks following a misdiagnosed all-clear scan. AI, then, could not only save countless dollars, but also countless lives.

Naturally, AI strikes fear in the hearts of many, simply because of its potential to abuse the information available. I would be lying if I said I didn’t envision the 2004 film I, Robot when AI first boomed. However, what was lacking in Will Smith’s and Sonny’s world was a entity that sought to ensure AI is used for good. There was a partnership created amongst Google, Facebook, Amazon, IBM and Microsoft to study and formulate best practices on AI technologies, provide thought leadership, and advance the public’s understanding of AI. Overarchingly, AI would be studied and harnessed to ensure AI systems are fair, explainable and accountable, and the benefits are shared by all. If we’re using AI to promote public good, raise quality of life and find innovative solutions to address global challenges, the potential positives of AI could outweigh the negatives... right?

Designed by Betty Vo Written by Denise Nguyen

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Victoria CURRAH

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Victoria Currah is a 5th year Bachelor of Commerce student with a major in accounting. She is a globetrotting fashionista, where her creativity comes to life through her fashion blog. She has completed a semester abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, as well as been involved in the co-op program through the Alberta School of Business. This month, we chatted with Victoria about the benefits of going on exchange, staying organized in school, and following her passion.

Student Spotlight

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looking for a creative outlet. Accounting isn’t the most creative profession, and I found that I really needed somewhere to express my creativity outside of school.

4. What was your exchange semester in Copenhagen, Denmark like?

I would probably say my exchange was my favorite experience in university, for sure. When people say that it changes your life, it 100% does. You can learn a lot about yourself and about the world.

My exchange was amazing. The exchange coordinator tells you, before you go, that you will come back a different person, which I didn’t really believe at first — but it was true! I learned so much about myself because I was forced into so many situations that I wouldn’t have otherwise been in. Being thrusted into a new culture, city, and language was so scary, but so rewarding. I think coming back was the hardest part of my whole exchange because I had to get used to life here again.

2. If you could give advice to your first-year self, what would that be?

5. What has been your biggest learning experience in life?

My advice to my first-year self would be that you don’t have to do everything that everyone around you is doing. When I first got into university, it seemed like people were encouraging me to be on every single club and get straight A’s, which stressed me out a lot. I think we go into business school with all of these expectations from other people of what we have to do and who we have to be. I think it wasn’t until my second year that I realized that I can’t do everything, which led me to pick activities to be involved in that I thought were most important to me.

I think university has been my biggest learning experience throughout my life. My first year of university, I didn’t really enjoy school. Then when I got into business, it was a lot more directed to what I wanted to do. Having the blog as my creative outlet, as well as going on the exchange, sort of molded together who I thought I was, and who I wanted to be, into who I am today.

1. What has been your favorite experience in the Alberta School of Business?

3. What inspired you to start your own fashion blog?

I have loved fashion for a long time. The blog was something I was always hesitant to start because a lot of people didn’t accept it as a real passion or a real hobby. Once I got into business at the University of Alberta, I realized the potential my blog could have, and the opinions of other people didn’t matter as much anymore.

I adored everything about fashion blogging, and I spent so much time on it that I thought: why not make something of this? A lot of people start fashion blogs, seeing it as something to make money from, but I was

Written by Katie Fitzgerald

6. How do you find balance in your life?

I am a pretty big scheduler and I actually schedule in time to do nothing. When I first started university, I didn’t take time for myself and do things that I enjoyed.

I found that being at school all of the time made me go a bit crazy. So, I started scheduling time to see my friends or even watch TV. By doing this, it has helped me to forcxfe myself to find balance in my life. I realized that if I am not happy, then I won’t do well in school.

I have a bullet journal that I made myself to help me schedule my life better. I couldn’t find a journal that had a weekly to do list or daily reminders, so I just started making my own. It actually worked out really well for my co-op term, and now I am using it to organize my life at school.

Designed by Joanna Faddoul

Photograph by Alex Ho

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Written by Cleo Williams

Designed by Joanna Faddoul

External Relations

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Photograph by Austin Yee

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External Relations

External ALEX relations Hryciw 1. Can you explain a bit about what you do for the Mayor of Edmonton?

I am a Communications Advisor for Mayor Don Iveson. My primary job entails developing and executing on communications strategies that support the vision and policies of the Mayor. This includes blogs, social media advice, media relations, and more. Everyday, it's challenging and different, but it's a role that contributes to making our city a better place to visit, stay, and thrive.

2. What is your favourite part about your job?

Actually making a difference.

In 2017, the Mayor put forward a vision for a greater Edmonton in his re-election campaign. A city that thinks, plans, and builds for a million people. One that accelerates leadership on energy transition and climate change.

A family-friendly city and a new economic future for Alberta's capital. It's a vision that pushes our city forward, and I love being a part of that work. I have a great love for this city and it's potential; every day I get to contribute to making it better.

3. What has been your biggest learning experience throughout your career?

My biggest learning experience has been that you have to fail to succeed. I am a perfectionist, and it's always been very difficult to accept or admit failure. However, over the years, I've come to realize that some of the greatest learning moments have come out of those failures. They've made me stronger, smarter, and they've given me the confidence to face the next big challenge. It's difficult to have this perspective when you're in the middle of a catastrophe, but that's part of lifelong learning. I try to always take a moment during those hectic times and remind myself that this isn't a life or death situation, and there is usually a way to fix it. This, along with an unhealthy dependence on going for a run to clear my head, helps me to survive the tough days.

4. What would be your number one piece of advice for business students in regards to career development?

Come from a place of “yes.” It's not always easy; school can be exhausting, and the last thing you may want to do at the end of the night is attend a networking event or sit in a board meeting, but accepting opportunity when someone is holding the door open for you is incredibly important.

5. What is your favourite part about YEG? The people.

A lot of people ask me this question; especially when I travel to other cities, people say, "look how beautiful this place is, how can Edmonton still have your whole heart?,” and my answer is always the people. From my experience, everyone here in this city wants to know what you're doing and how they can help.

There's a pulse here that I haven't experienced in other places, and it's what I love most about Edmonton.

6. What do you enjoy doing outside of your work?

I don't get a lot of free time, so when I have it, I capitalize on it. I love a long run in the river valley (it brings me a lot of peace). I also give a lot of my time to IABC Edmonton as the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications. When you work for the City, your work follows you no matter where you are, so to truly escape, I have to leave. I love heading to the mountains for a hike. Forcing myself to be in areas without cell service, where I can actually disconnect, clears my mind and rejuvenates me. I'm lucky I live in a province where weekend trips like that are an option!

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Events this Month

Events this month

2018 DESIGN WORKSHOP Lazy Faire is proud to bring back an event like no other! We are giving students from all faculties the chance to learn more about expressing their creative side through our Design Workshop.

With the added importance of being well rounded in today’s changing employment environment, it is important for students to learn how to channel their creativity and be able to create something tangible and appealing to help set them apart. That’s exactly what the Design Workshop is here to help students do.

Our step-by-step workshop will allow you to learn the basics with these programs, give you the tools to be able to build on what you learn in the workshop, and the confidence to use these skills in your future projects and creative endeavours!

All materials and programs will be provided, in addition to refreshments and food...oh and some invaluable knowledge and skills that are sure to be the highlight of the event!

The Design Workshop will be taking place on Tuesday, October 16 at 5:00pm in room ED L-110 in Coutts Library in the Education Building.

Ticket sales will be happening outside the BSA and will be $15 per ticket. Spaces are limited so make sure to reserve your spot early! Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more information!

Written by Haya Masri

Designed by Joanna Faddoul

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ECLUB Lazy Faire met with eCLUB president, Trixia Maximo, to find out more about their commitment to entrepreneurship, how they are getting students involved to learn more about how to start a business, and provide individuals with a place where they can go to ask questions and find out more information.

Can you tell us what eCLUB is all about? eCLUB is an interdisciplinary group open to University of Alberta students from all disciplines. Our purpose is to promote entrepreneurship and innovation, facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration, and inspire students to pursue their entrepreneurial drive.

What does eCLUB provide for those getting involved with them? eCLUB focuses on providing student entrepreneurs with resources to further grow or start their own business venture, as well as showcase to students that starting a business or working within a start-up after graduation is a viable career path. Through our relationships with eHUB (on-campus incubator) and other incubators across Edmonton, we can distribute resources to student entrepreneurs, resources such as: funding, mentorships, space to work in, etc. While mentoring other students we also host events monthly. We strive to create events that educates students on technical skills, such as: prototyping, as well as events that allows students to network with industry professionals, and lastly events that allow students to showcase their business ideas to companies like Telus.

Clubs Corner

asasas

CLUBS CORNER

Is there a specific group of people that eCLUB is targeting or is this a club that anyone and everyone could see themselves involved with?

Since we are an interdisciplinary group, we are open to having any student from any faculty take part in our club. Whether that be running for an executive position or becoming a general member!

I see you have one event planned on Wednesday, September 19th. What’s important to eCLUB when planning an event?

We believe the most important aspect of planning any event for eCLUB is focusing on what students want to see and experience. We want to see our general members and other students succeed in their business ventures, so in some of our events we provide them with industry guests they can connect with or competitions that can further improve their technical skills (e.g., programming).

Our event on September the 19th is with Kyle Gagnon of VR Inception Inc. He is a local Edmontonian, from NAIT, who started his own VR company. VR is a technology that is guaranteed to grow in the upcoming years, so showcasing companies like VR Inception to students provides them with the knowledge of current technology and the potential to further innovate and grow that industry.

Do you have any other events planned that students can get involved with?

Yes! We will have an official announcement soon, but we are hosting a huge hackathon with Telus and the Telus World of Science next month more information to come!. As well as a speaker panel called whYEG later in November. We have many more events

planned and if you’d like to know more information, check out our website or follow us on social media!

Is there any sort of challenges the club faces either daily or during the year?

Our biggest challenge day-to-day is keeping track of everything the executives are doing. Since we have such a widespread team, with students from various faculties such as Immunology, or Fine Arts, we rely on many different applications to constantly communicate!

What makes eCLUB different from the other clubs?

We don’t have one main focus, we base ourselves on the concept of entrepreneurship, which is very much an open topic. Basically, the team gets to work with several companies all from different industries. We’ve had the chance to work with a company from the Artificial Intelligence industry, and a company from the Beauty industry.

So we never know what’s coming next, which is the best part about it. We learn different things from different companies every day, we love it.

Where can people go for more information?

Everyone can check out our website or our social media for more updates on which companies were working with and upcoming events or email us for any inquires!

Website: eclubedmonton.com Facebook: eclub.ualberta Instagram: eclub_edmonton Email: eclub@ualberta.ca

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R O C K Y MOUNTAIN BUSINESS SEMINAR

Events this Month

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The Rocky Mountain Business Seminar (RMBS) is Canada’s longest-running and most prestigious student-organized business conference. RMBS allows for an educational experience that one would not necessarily receive inside a classroom — giving students the chance to learn, not only from today’s experienced business leaders, but also through networking with peers from all across North America. For its upcoming 54th year, the theme for RMBS 2019 is “Momentum.”

Through this theme, we hope that RMBS will open doors for our delegates and leave them feeling inspired by their peers and professionals from various industries. Whether you’re in your first year of business or your last, build the “Momentum” that pushes you in the right direction in both your personal and professional lives at RMBS. Mark your calendars for RMBS 2019, which will take place during the Winter Reading Week from February 18-22, 2019 in the beautiful Canadian Rockies at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

Delegates will enjoy seminar and keynote speakers, a mini-case competition, interactive workshops, fantastic nightly events, and three gourmet meals daily. It will be the reading week experience you will remember for years to come.

This month, RMBS will be hosting an Information Session on October 23, 2018 at 5PM for all those interested. Join us to hear what RMBS has to offer, meet the faces behind the planning committee, and learn how you can earn a spot at RMBS. Another important date to keep in mind is for Sign Ups on November 9, 2018 at 5PM. If you have any questions, please feel free to email our VP of Public Relations, Jessica Klimko (klimko@ualberta.ca), or check out our website at rmbs.ca.

We hope to see you at RMBS 2019!

Written by RMBS

Designed by Shannon Wong

FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

Guest Article

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BRNT is an up-and-coming name you might recognize: founded by several University of Alberta students, BRNT has made several headlines with their creative approach to the cannabis lifestyle. We sat down with Simon Grigenas and Rahman Amlani of BRNT to talk about their journey of entrepreneurship and success.

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Tell us the background story of how you founded BRNT. S: The main idea behind BRNT was me being a medical user of cannabis, so I had a lot of experience with the different product offerings. I felt restricted, especially with the negative stigmas associated with cannabis. When people hear “bong” or “pipe,” they have negative associations. They don’t think of products that are well-designed, or aesthetically pleasing — just products that can get someone high. That was a big factor in driving products behind BRNT — creating products that weren’t for the old-school stoners. Our driver behind it was creating a product that blends art and design with the world of cannabis.

R: At the end of last year, we launched our crowdfunding campaign with the Hexagon, which was our initial offering to the market. We did our seed funding round in March, where we raised about $500,000. We’ve launched more products since then.

How did the BRNT members all get together as a team?

R: We’ve all known each other for a while outside of the business faculty, and we’re really close. Being able to call someone out for not doing their work, being able to motivate someone — that’s definitely helped us.

S: Leveraging those pros to bring the best out of each other was the biggest factor in scaling up as much as we have. Making quick decisions, and having solid relationships is something weVoset out as Written byand Katieemployees, Fitzgerald Designed

by Betty our number one priority.

Written by Denise Nguyen

Designed by Melania Antoszko

BRNT

Any challenges faced when you started BRNT? R: I think the biggest challenges were facing the industries outside of cannabis that we work with. When we were first starting, they were less open to working with cannabis companies. A main example of that was something as simple as processing payments, which gave us a big headache.

S: Even after October 17th, there will still be companies that don’t want to relate themselves to cannabis. We need to find partners outside of the cannabis industry to implement lifestyle components. In searching for those partnerships, you’re looking for open-minded companies that are willing to work with cannabis — that shouldn’t be the case. You should instead be looking for a company that’s well-suited in terms of, not just profit, but also a solid relationship. It shouldn’t matter what specific industry they’re in, especially if it’s a legal one.

Photograph by Diane Jeon

Do you have any tips or daily rituals that you follow that you’d like to tell young entrepreneurs such as yourselves?

R: My biggest tip is to just get out there. Attend events that you’re passionate about, go out, meet people, and make connections.

S: Outside [the Faculty] of Business, you have to be looking at things that are relevant to where you want to go. You’re never going to learn how to run a startup from business school alone. The books that I read on a nightly basis — on product design, motivation, and leadership — those assets are critical. There’s a lot of things I’ve learned from these educational resources. Another tip I have is that if you want to be an entrepreneur, you just have to do it and take the risk. As students, we didn’t have these financials, so when we first started, we left everything else behind and took on the debt to do it. We had to just dive in. Or, you’ll have to live with the thought that you never did it, and that it could’ve been something. That’s something I’m really proud of with our team.

FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

Lazy Faire Visits Haunted Buildings

On September 13th (ooh spooky — but don’t worry, this was a Thursday), the bravest souls of Lazy Faire ventured on a quest in search of the supernatural.

For some background, it took awhile to organize this event. Campus Security was contacted to let them know that we weren’t robbers on campus late at night. The Facilities and Operations Department of the University of Alberta was also made aware to allow us to enter these buildings in the first place. Unfortunately, video recording was prohibited, so our dreams of being “Mystery Hunters” was a nonstarter. Facilities and Operations were, however, “fascinated” enough by our request that they even sent a list of buildings that we should visit. From these suggestions, we picked Pembina Hall, Athabasca Hall, and Convocation Hall. Why? Because they had the scariest stories.

Pembina Hall was built in 1914 as a residence for nursing students. It served as a temporary hospital in 1918 when the influenza pandemic heightened. Apparently, a young nurse died in the aftermath of the epidemic, and her spirit was reported to have been zipping around the building in search of her boyfriend ever since. So, we went on a hunt in search of the “girlfriend.” The building, completely empty, now has most of its rooms converted into offices. We soon discovered that the Faculty of Native Studies resides in Pem, making sense of the tipi outside. After ten minutes of the “you go first” attitude whilst walking through the building, we weren’t able to find — or feel — anything.

Maybe the “girlfriend” runs too fast.

Athabasca, built in 1911, is the oldest building on campus. One night, during its construction, a young boy went missing while his parents were part of a work camp in charge of building Athabasca. His body was found frozen in the North Saskatchewan River the next morning. The ghost of a shivering, sobbing, little boy has apparently been seen wandering Athabasca. It is said that every year, at the end of autumn, the boy appears near Pembina, before disappearing into the river valley. So, being the bravest souls of Lazy Faire, we went into Athabasca — for you, our reader. When we arrived at the front door, we noticed something tragic. The door was locked. However, we found a convenient side door that sneaked us in. The interior of Athabasca looks exactly like Pembina. Offices. After eight minutes of touring the seemingly empty building, something quickly became apparent. There was someone in an office — it was a real person, relax. I asked him if he’s ever noticed anything scary at night. He replied, “No, but if you walk down the hall, there’s a scary room on the right.” So we did. It was the furnace room. To be fair, he was right.

Leading up to the room was a short hallway devoid of light, unlike all of the other hallways in the building. Could it be scary because the frozen boy wants to be by the heat? Okay, bad joke. If someone who works there hasn’t had any unnerving experiences, then we probably wouldn’t either.

One of the main uses of Convocation Hall is to refine the skills of music students who are preparing for pivotal performances. Allegedly, an organ player has been using the hall for practice, as well. Practicing since the late 1930’s, in fact. The organ would be heard playing with no one seen on some nights. So, we tried to sneak in for a personal concert. Now, I can lie to you and say that we walked in and searched for several minutes before leaving (and probably finding nothing), but the building was locked. We tried other entrances, but to no avail. Maybe the organ player is simply on tour right now?

Personally, I believe in ghosts. During the buildup of the few days before we went on our search, I prepared myself for the thought that I’d see something — even wanting to catch a glimpse of anything. Truthfully, I think I’d freeze if I did. Be careful what you wish for.

Written by Rodvie Barnachea

Designed by Joanna Faddoul

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FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

FACING THE FEAR OF FAILURE Indisputably, among all of the creepy crawlies and haunting ghoulies out there, the scariest part about October has got to be the first onslaught of midterms. Pencil scribbles potentially manifesting in a numerical value hovering menacingly below the class curve creates a painful amount of anxiety for some. This exam anxiety is an inherent aspect of the fear of failure.

The fear of failure has a clinical term: atychiphobia. On one end of the spectrum, the fear of failure can completely paralyze you, making it difficult to carry on with daily tasks at home, work and school. The other end of the spectrum may result in excessive anticipation of fear-inducing situations and avoidance of such situations and objects.

Its remedies are as exhaustive as the spectrum itself. The danger in choosing a remedy lies in its depth.

The potential solution of “just do it”, resonating in Nike slogans and overused Shia Labeouf memes, make facing the fear of failure sound so damn easy.

Similarly, many Goalcast videos, Ted Talks, and inspirational stories, though heartwarming, are potential fodder for the negative voice in your head that compares your low points to others’ highlights. In the same vein, LinkedIn posts and Pinterest quotes from the

Written by Diane Jeon

Designed by Betty Vo

movers, shakers, and poets of this world are largely superficial in their empowerment. Altogether, these passive forms of encouragement in facing your fears are like reflections of light on water – visible, but intangible.

ultimate form of stability. Getting to this point involves learning from your previous houses – developing your selfconfidence, considering contingency plans, and reflecting on the process rather than being nit-picky with the result.

I don’t have a fix-all solution for facing your fears, either. However, an important starting point is constructing a foundation of emotional intelligence and a framework of vulnerability.

So, take note when you’re feeling anxious – literally. Write them down on a piece of paper and try to dissect its root and remedy. Take time to think through recent undertakings and identify what you did well – write these down too and see how you can improve these skills further. Balance this introspection with sharing these thoughts with someone who cares for you and will actively listen to you. Remember how the third little pig opened the doors for his brothers once their houses got blown down? This, too, is applicable, in that opening your door and speaking with others and sharing your pain, fear, or learnings bolsters your house even further. Your close ones are the greatest building blocks in your success story.

Think of it this way: If the Big Bad Wolf embodied a form of atychiphobia and comes to blow your mental house down, how easily would your house get swept away? If you’re prone to self-sabotage – i.e. non-action, extreme insecurity, and the overwhelming need to escape – you’ve likely built that house out of straw.

If you generally follow through with your personal goals but procrastinate or tend to be a perfectionist, your house is going to be that mid-range strength of sticks.

You’ll notice that these houses follow the Three Little Pigs fairytale, upgrading in sturdiness as the story progresses.

Ironically, the third and strongest house, composed of bricks in this analogy, is the most flexible house. This house builds upon the idea of vulnerability and self-awareness, as allowing yourself to be open to the possibility of failure and acknowledging how you feel is the

I emphasize that this analogy is just a framework and starting point. The ultimate how-to guide in overcoming your fears is constructed as you face each risk in life. Among all the folklore and fantastical tales out there, your navigation of vulnerability will become your most mystical story. Make it a good one!

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FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

GERMANY

Erntedankfest Protestant and Catholic churches run the show for this festival, with Erntedankfest (or: “Harvest Festival”) being a religious holiday that falls on the first Sunday of October. Beginning with a sermon, followed by a thanksgiving procession where the “queen” wears harvest crown made from grain, flowers, and fruit, the day ends with music, dancing, food, and a laternenumzüge (lantern parade) for the children in the evenings.

KOREA

Chuseok Chuseok (or “Autumn Eve”) is a three-day holiday celebrated in both North Korea and South Korea on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month on the full moon (around September to October). While this festival shares similarities with other harvest festivals around the world by taking place around the autumn equinox and involving feasts with family and friends, it differs in that it is more centered on honouring family ancestors. Families visit their ancestral hometowns and hold memorials at the ancestral graves as a celebration of the year’s good harvest.

ISRAEL

INDIA

CHINA

Sukkot A biblical Jewish holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the month of Tishrei (around late September to late October), Sukkot (or “Feast of Tabernacles”) both marks the end of the harvest season and agriculture year, and also commemorates the relationship between the People of Israel and God. The celebration lasts seven days, with the week packed full of festivals, special prayer services, and holiday meals.

Pongal A four-day long harvest festival, Pongal is held every 1st day of the 10th month (“Thai”) of the Tamil calendar, which translates to around mid-January. The first day (“Bhogi”) is dedicated to Lord Indra, the ruler of clouds who provides rain water for crops. On the second day (“Thai Pongal”), rice is boiled in milk and symbolically offered to the Sun God. The third day (“Maatu Pongal”) is for appreciating the cattle, which are regarded as sources of wealth for providing dairy products, fertilizer, and labour. The fourth and final day is a time for family reunions and visiting friends, where gifts of food, clothes, and money are exchanged.

Mid-Autumn Festival This festival takes place on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month (sometime in between September to October), when the moon is said to be the brightest and roundest. While traditional celebrations previously involved couples exchanging poems or verses of song, and praying for a spouse or children, modern celebrations now mainly consist of outdoor reunions among relatives and friends. With the moon as a symbol of unity and harmony, it is a time to reflect on the importance of togetherness, “appreciate the moon,” eat mooncakes, and light lanterns.

Written by Valerie Leow

Designed by Melania Antoszko

ALL AROUND THE WORLD: THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving – at least, in North America – often brings to mind images of pilgrims, family gatherings, and the stuffing of our faces with turkey dinners, pumpkin pie, and the like. However, the concept of gathering with our loved ones to give thanks for what we have transcends both cultures and countries, as variants of this day exist all around the world. While the dates, origins, and customs might differ, all five of the following thanksgiving and harvest festivals revolve around appreciating nature’s plentiful bounty, reuniting with family and friends, and reflecting on all we are thankful for.

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FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS™

Lazy Chat

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As a professor for first-year accounting, and many other accounting courses, Trish Stringer is a well-known face on campus. However, it’s not just because of her large classes that people recognize her, but due to her teaching skills. This month, Lazy Faire sat down with Trish to talk about her career as a professor and the advice she’d give to current students.

What first inspired you to become a professor?

It’s not my inspiration for life — it wasn’t — because in university, I was a crap student so [becoming a professor] was not my plan. What happened is: I was working as a controller at a company; not a large company — there were four staff that reported to me. One of the staff came up to me and said, “You should teach. I’ve been in classes at school and I never understand what I’m supposed to be doing, but you just have a way such that I understand.” And I’m like, “Well that’s nice.” So, from there, I ended up teaching with the [Edmonton] Mennonite Centre for Newcomers. I was teaching a payroll course, and I taught them a Microsoft Office course.

Then CMA Alberta approached me because they were looking to do a session with the Mennonite Centre for Newcomers for the CMA program, which was an 18-week course, one day a week for 8 hours. It would teach accounting that, if you had a university degree but not all the programs you needed, could still get you into the CMA program. I taught for three years between that and also the main course they were teaching in Edmonton on Saturdays. I really liked it, so I looked on the U of A website and found out who was in charge of the accounting department and mailed them my resume and said, “Hey I’d love to teach!” I think about six months later, they contacted me and said, “Someone is going on maternity leave, would you like to come teach?” And it moved on from there.

Through your years as a professor, are there any in-class experiences that really stand out for you?

LAZYCHAT: Trish Stringer

I’ll say in my first couple of years, students tended to ask me questions that I hadn’t contemplated. So I found it really challenging, like, “Oh! I hadn’t thought of it that way.” And even just the other day in tutorials, someone asked me, “It says this is the shareholder’s interest in the company, what does that mean?” And I’m like, “That’s a good question!” So, [I’ve enjoyed coming] up with the way people are interpreting things when they’re asking a question, and [coming] up with answers and [being] able to explain such that people understand. I’ve had fun with the other things outside teaching.

My thing is: I’m always surprised day-to-day with what students do and how much they have to balance in their lives. And in my course, I make them do a lot of work, so I’m usually the one to blame (laughs).

What advice would you have to students who are just entering the business school, or on their way out?

Coming in to business school, it would be, to a certain extent: don’t overthink stuff, but put away the time that’s needed for your classes. I would also say get involved in stuff, because it may get a lot more fun if you’ve got friends to study with. Not just party with, but study with as well. When it comes to further in your career, a lot of times, at university, people tend to get really stressed about stuff. Yes, you want to have really good grades, and you definitely want to pass courses; and to get into the CPA, you have to have a certain grade, but you don’t have to have an A+. So, sometimes, stressing about a course too much actually causes more upset in your life than you need. Do the work, but chill a little bit.

Outside of class, what do you think is the greatest lesson students will learn in their university career?

I think: balance. A little bit of a juggling act, to a certain extent — being able to juggle school life, and I think it’s important that people have a personal life. So, you need to find that balance between the two.

Written by Cleo Williams

Designed by Betty Vo

Photograph by Dylan Wee

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