The Confluence | November 14, 2022 | The November Edition

YOUR OFFICIAL COLLEGE MAGAZINE

November 14th 2022

11 KNOCK OUT INTEREST

A Sign of Hope and Change

16 28

ELECTION INTERVIEWS

Meet Our New Board of Governors and Education Council Students

A LACK OF HOPE

An International Student's Perspective; Fairness for International Students

30 KNOW YOUR REPRESENTATIVE

Getting to Know Gulshan Singh

GARRY SINGH

EDITOR -IN-CHIEF HAPPY TO BE HERE

"So, how has this all changed your life?" I asked my friends, while we were sitting in the gathering place, acknowledging the cold winds outside and how we all had our winter jackets on. “More Procrastination and Depression” said one of my friends in an attempt to make the group laugh, and we did.

Many things have changed as Prince George transitioned into its first wave of winter, but I wonder if it was winter that inspired this change or the feeling of being away from home? Honestly, I think most of the students were just excited to see their first snow of the season, or of their life – specific to some if not most international students, which would be true for me as well. Albeit the statement by my friend was made without much thought, the things we say in the most lighthearted manner are, sometimes, the truest. I've noticed a change in the way that people respond to things; conversations veer more towards importance of family and friends, and how they miss things back home.

I’ve found myself focusing on these little footnotes in the conversations ever since I became the Editor-in-Chief for The Confluence. Finding things to write about and receiving content to publish, it feels amazing – the later more exciting than the former.

The Editorial Committee

Garry Singh

Madhavi Sharma

Vacant

Vacant

Editor-in-Chief

Journalist

Production Assistant

Photographer

Darian Meesto

Vacant

Vacant

Vacant

Columnist

Web & Graphics Supervisor

YouTube & Social Media Management Assistant

Columnist

THECONFLUENCE 02

Your Students' Union

Clarence Bo

Gulshan Singh

Anmol Gondara

Darian Meesto

Health and Science Representative

CCE Representative

University Studies Representative

Indigenous Students' Representative

Jasvir Singh

Anuroop Kaur

Chantel Tom

Leila Abubakar

Business Students' Representative

Women Students' Representative

Upgrading and Access Representative

Executive Director

Guntas Thapar

Damon Robinson

Carman Hill

Hana Hoang

Organizer

03 THECONFLUENCE

Membership Outreach Office and Services Coordinator - Quesnel Coordinator

Office and Services Coordinator - PG

Trip to Quesnel Campus

To Understand and Appreciate Garry Singh

Editor-in-chief, CNC Students' Union

October 28th, Friday: The three of us: Anuroop Kaur, our Women Students' Representative; Anmol Singh, our University Transfers' Representative, and myself, your Editor-inChief, went to the beautiful city of Quesnel to spend some time at the College of New Caledonia and University of Northern British Columbia Campus there; convenient to access, both of those institutions operate in the same building.

represented as much as the Prince George campus. Many discussions prospered as Carman walked us through the campus; Our women students' representative informed the instructors about the women committee's vision and how she needs members from Quesnel campus on the committee, to understand the issues and make necessary amends in order to be of help women on campus.

The purpose of the trip was to understand the campus community better and have them be

Moreover, conversations focused around cultural diversity and on campus events took

THECONFLUENCE 04

place, where our university transfers' representative, Anmol Singh, listened to the requests of the campus faculties about organizing event collaborations and demands of the students. Clubs and media presence was also discussed in line with the previous elements of the conversation.

The team had the opportunity to interact with Lori Dunphy, the aboriginal advisor at CNC Quesnel campus, who informed us about the aboriginal resource centers(also known as Aboriginal spaces) existing across all campuses of College of New Caledonia and the presence of aboriginal advisors on each campus.

Focusing more into that, I could do so much but not compare the spaces dedicated to aboriginal community among the two campuses; I noticed that the Prince George campus has a lot more 'welcome' appeal than the one at Quesnel, having the bare minimum.

It is apparent why there is a struggle for first nations students at Quesnel campus.

The community at Quesnel campus consists largely of students pursuing carpentry, electrical, and millwright students.

Furthermore, another detail that was mentioned to us which was of specific interest to our women students' representative, was that the Quesnel campus is mostly dominated by female students in terms of the demographic present on campus.

05 THECONFLUENCE

Carman, our office and services coordinator at Quesnel campus, attested to that fact - "Yes, it's mostly women on campus; we do have male students but they're focused on one department than the other; It's true for both CNC and UNBC". The community there seems to be far closer as compared to Prince George, but that might be due to the size of the campus. I noticed everyone interacting with everyone; a sight not so common at the Prince George campus.

The reason why I went down to Quesnel campus was to recruit a member for the editorial committee from the Quesnel campus.

Having seen the beautiful place that Quesnel is and how much there is to the city's culture, I want to make sure that the campus is represented as much as it can be as a part of the College of New Caledonia community.

To my surprise, there was one thing I fell in love with at the Quesnel campus - the architecture. After recent renovations and expansions on that campus, the visual appeal of the campus has to be complimented. Plus, the bear statue around the staircase to the entrance has earned the reputation of a mascot in my eyes; if you ever are in the Quesnel campus, take a group picture and email The.Confluence.Mag@gmail.com We would be more than happy to have those pictures showcased in the magazine and across the social media platforms.

Editor-in-Chief, CNC Students' Union

Garry Singh

The Diwali Celebration

What Happened and How It Went?

Who said that the realm of events is limited to the campus alone? Nobody; the College of New Caledonia Students’ Union organized a Diwali celebration on the October 21st, 2022 at the Prince George Civic Centre, welcoming current students, and alumni students to experience a one of a lifetime event which is much more than a party. There was a lot that happened that night; if you missed it, we got you covered!

Jasvir Singh

Business Students' Representative Students' Union had been organizing Diwali event since 2019, and this year it was our pleasure to organize the 4th Annual Diwali party. Having sold more than 250 tickets just in 3 days, everyone was way more excited to attend the Diwali party. In the event we had some games, dance and singing performances and, of course, INDIAN DINNER. We also had a open DJ at last, which was the most demanded part.

It also helped create a sense of belonging for the international students at the campus.

Moreover, apart from that, it was an opportunity for international and domestic students to built a positive relationship, for the silent purpose of the event was to promote diversity and give people an opportunity to know about a culture they usually aren't exposed to.

THECONFLUENCE 06

We had a huge success in organizing the event and we received some good feedback. Students seemed really excited and wished for more events like this. Students' Union is always looking forward to organize such events in future.

Diwali for me, as I mentioned on the stage that day as well, has always been about candles, lights, and fireworks as well; however, this time it was a bit different - I mean who can blame me for having opinions? We legit did the honoring with electric bulbs and I found it to be the funniest thing throughout the night.

Apart from the jokes and how fun things were on stage for Guntas, the CNCSU Organizer, and I, I really enjoyed the after event dance session; everyone blew the roof away, in the most literal sense. It was the first actual party that many first semester students attended.

Therefore, it had a lot of sentimental value as well.

Being able to dance with everyone that night without having a second thought in my mind and having a sense of belonging among other Indian students helped me detach from not just homesickness but a lot of things.

07 THECONFLUENCE

First Diwali Here

Memories and Magic Garry Singh

Editor-in-Chief, CNC Students' Union

Furthermore, it was my first Diwali with the Stidents' Union team - the new kid in the crew.

Although it did not seem like it, technically the union members were working on that day. I personally feel that it helped me grow closer to my team and exposed me to a new side of them as I saw them having the time of their life - not something I see in the office everyday.

What was the moment of the night for me?

There were many 'solid' performances, and a dance performance by the Bhangra club is always a treat; however, my personal favorite was the little heads or tails game session. One by one, each round, people got eliminated, with me joining that list very early.

It is a night which I will remember for a long time. It's thanks to everyone who attended, for it wouldn't have been possible without them.

If you missed the night, the event coverage video has been uploaded to the College of New Caledonia Students' Union's YouTube channel.

The QR Code on this page will take you to the video itself; tell us in the comments how you felt about the night and what was the best part for you.

Want your event reviews published here? We encourage students to write them; it allows others students to have an understanding of what is truly happening around campus, which is the purpose of The Confluence.

Send your submissions at The.Confluence.Mag@gmail.com

THECONFLUENCE 08

We are looking for

Volunteers Want to jump in and help improve CNC? We are always looking for students to help us at events, advocate beside us during campaigns, and join us on official committees.

Sign-up right now by scanning this link!

Or you can go to: cncsu.ca/opportunities

We KO'ed Interest

A Sign of Hope and Change

Damon Robinson

Membership Outreach Coordinator, CNC Students' Union

In 2016, I started my first diploma at the College of New Caledonia. My first day was a stormy day - it was a downpour. After stumbling through the puddles, crazy drivers, and first-day anxieties, I arrived at CNC for my orientation. It was packed; hundreds of people were flooding the halls, awkwardly walking into the wrong classroom and nervously approaching orientation tables. Little did I know, this would be the environment I would live in for the next six years.

My first exposure to my union’s campaign catalog was the Knock Out Interest campaign.

At the time, we were living in a world where Donald Trump had just won the American elections, prices of grapes were skyrocketing, and overall the global climate for hope was diminishing. As I looked at the campaign materials in front of me, I thought, “what change will this bring, actually?”. I look back at it now as a funny thing, considering the amount of work I have put in at the union fighting for just that: change.

Hope is a resource that is disappearing. In a world that is painted as a chaotic mess of distress, doom and disappointment it makes sense why our first thought would be, “does

11 THECONFLUENCE

this matter?”. It’s something I try to keep in mind when I tell our members that things can happen, things can change, and things can get better. The cool thing about knocking out federal interest isn’t just that college is a bit cheaper (While I do admit that’s dope). It’s that it’s a victory at a time when a lot of people feel hopeless.

Seeing the announcement last week, our office erupted into a roar of cheers - which was funny because it interrupted a rather serious conversation. Even though none of us were there when the campaign first started, we took it as a victory and a sign of hope. This win came from the efforts of thousands of students over many years. While this all sounds melodramatic, we need to recognize that this is a win for everyone, and we should all take a second to acknowledge that we all did this as a student movement.

This victory is a sign that things can change, that our voices matter, and that we should all be a little more hopeful. As we plan for our upcoming celebrations with you all because of this victory. I can’t help but think about what’s next. All I know about the future is that our team will fight for you with a renewed spirit, and who knows? Maybe you will be there fighting for change with us.

The Deceptive Knight - Kael Standeven Thou art standing upon a pedestal, Empty and void, as the knight that thou art.

Encompass the world as Nótt embraces The sky. As the emptiness of midnight, Thou spread thine dark raiment before the sun.

Don thine pale armour, ‘my lord’, and Become something new.

Shine in the sun like a blazing town And forget for the time what thou art.

Draw thine darkling sword Which matches in shade and moral thine own soul.

Bring it down upon the heads of innocents And rejoice in the love they lavish upon thee regardless; Deceived have they been, for they know not What evil hides behind thine shining armour.

For only a brighter shade is it than thine heart; A lie raised for a time from the shadow.

What is silver but the depth of thine heart made Bright?

Taken and held above, while the masses proclaim Their praise: “Joyous day! The pale knight has come to rescue Us and bring about a brighter age!”

Foolish peasants. They believe what they will, But I will join them not. Armour may protect and hide What they see, but it cannot change the darkness Of thine spirit.

Have any poetry you want to submit? Send it to editor@cncsu.ca All published work gets you $20!

12 THECONFLUENCE

NEW TO CAMPUS? Join the official CNCSU Discord!!

Hang out with the students and Students' Union members

Scan the QR Code, or visit this website to join

cncsu.ca/discord

Around Prince George

Some exciting things went down Garry Singh

Editor-in-Chief, CNC Students' Union

On Friday, October 28, 2022, the Prince George Spruce Kings went toe to toe against Wenatchee Wild in a match of Ice Hockey. The final results called in favor of the home team, however it was a intense match which had the audience at the edge of their seat.

One could feel the intensity in the rink as the visit team gave the Spruce Kings a hard time in the first two out of three periods of the game, remaining in the lead and dominating the home team to a fine extent. However in the final period, things changed; with every passing minute, the energy on the rink got increasingly exciting and intense. Nonetheless, with the crown taken by The Prince George Spruce Kings at the end, cheers of relief and

celebrations filled the whole rink. The final score was 4 to 3, with shots on goal being 26 to 25; it was a great recovery from 1 to 2 on board, with shots on goal being only 6 to 12 in the first period of the game.

On a more personal note, this was the first time I got to attend the national anthem in Canada. I think that is something more invoking for international students, as every new day brings us new experiences. The city of Prince George has a lot to offer to students in terms of recreation and entertainment. I would definitely recommend you to explore the city more, attend Ice hockey games, go Ice skiing as it's already winter, and be more involved in the events on and off campus. For, that is what the college experience is.

Changing Clocks

A little but significant change

Whether it be an extra hour of sleep, or calling schedules in effect for those which have families oversees, British Columbians have set their clocks back one hour starting from November 6 in regards to Daylight Savings Time(DST) coming to an end. There still is no concrete stand from the government about their plans to permanently be using the current time zone.

THECONFLUENCE 14

Remembrance Day

Honoring The Ones Who Fought

November 10th, 2022, Thursday, as students were walking into and out of the campus, a sitting was observed in the Gathering place.

Surely, not a lot of people had to check their calendars to know what was going on. The day after was the Remembrance day after all.

One after another, people went on the stage and shared their thoughts and experienced in regards to what remembrance day means to them and what veterans mean to them.

It surely was a time to honour Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal veterans. Speaker Nellie Prince shared the experiences of her late husband and World War II veteran, Ray Prince, on stage.

Alongside her, there were many who joined the stage to share what was on their heart.

The event was concluded with the members of Aboriginal Resource Centre going through with a drumming session. The history that we share, the experiences that we still get to live due to that history, it should all be seen as an opportunity to come together rather than grow apart.

Many veterans would support that statement;

15 THECONFLUENCE

whether they exist on this side of the horizon or the other, the goal truly is peace. Let's remember to remember and honor them, alongside the battles which they fought for countless lives they didn't even know personally, but still regarded as family - a family worth protecting.

Lest we forget.

Get to Know Devant

All about student success Editor-in-chief, Garry Singh

Editor-in-chief, CNC Students' Union

Devant is a platform meant for students, allowing them access to a professional space in regard to the opportunities students get; it helps them create resumes and cover letters, and provides them with master classes focused around skill and career assessment.

Specifically for international students, the Canadian Workplace Etiquette certificate is there to help bump up the trajectory of their

career. Students can log into their Devant portals through their CNC credentials - same as the ones used to access Moodle and CNC Connect.

Access the webpage directly through the QR Code, moreover the Facebook community is there if anyone needs that extra assistance with the understanding of the portal or access the help tab aligned to the side of the window.

Your Elected Students

An interview with our new Board of Governors and Education Council Students Your Own Student Newspaper

The Editorial Committee

After the hectic election process and their introductions to the system, it was time for the editorial committee to test the waters with the new Board of Governors and Education Council members. The intent with this interview was bringing truth to the students, for being on the Board of Governors and Education Council is a big role with some even bigger responsibilities.

The truth lies in accordance with the reader's interpretation of the provided answers. After analyzing the answers for yourself, reach out to the Editorial Committee with more questions for these students if you have any.

Do Whatever must be done in favor of the students!!

Were the candidates politically as well integrally correct with their answers? Did their intent seem conflicted? or Did the answer sound fabricated, miss the mark and seemed provided without any practical logic?

THECONFLUENCE 16

Question: What are your responsibilities, what do you understand about the foundation of Education Council itself?

It's about academic re-evaluation. Eligibility of students regarding various courses; if I can want to make a change in those matters, I can put my agenda in the meeting and it would have to be approved by the council; we have to go over the consequences and conflicting views. But, it ultimately depends on the votes.

Question: How do you deal with disagreements?

I can only reason on behalf of how it is important for students, especially for the international students. There's an issue with the prerequisites in many courses; I've first hand faced that problem with that and waivers not being signed by either the instructor or any help from the Dean; my main agenda is to bring that issue into the light.

Question: Was your standing in the election process for more personal benefit?

I can only reason on behalf of how it is important for students, especially for the international students. There's an issue with the prerequisites in many courses; I've first hand faced that problem with that and waivers not being signed by either the instructor or any help from the Dean; my main agenda is to bring that issue into the light.

Question: What are some issues regarding courses or campus that you have noticed?

After electing, I noticed that students do not have opportunity to represent themselves.

Second, students aren't aware of their rights like access to students' union and student services. Coming back to the waiver thing, the main focus has to be study, but involvement in co curriculum is also important. Lastly, some courses do not create much opportunities for the students. For example, in science ward, there is a lot of pre requisites and students

17 THECONFLUENCE

have to pay a lot of fees, and they take longer to complete their course.

Question: Is Education Council only related to international students?

No, they represent the whole community, including domestic students and students from various cultures and ethics. The agenda is not only for a particular person or the international community; I think that it would be unfair for domestic students and I will make sure that, in the coming meetings, I consider the needs of domestic students as well.

Question: What is your vision beyond Education Council?

I want to increase student participation.

Sometimes students feel bad about just being present, whether among groups or in campaigns similar to election setting, they lack confidence. I want them to stand in elections with comfort; if they want to, I will support them.

Question: Do you think it is an easy job?

It does not take a lot of work. I have to maintain sound communication with the Students' Union and Board of Governors, and I have to inform students about what are the duties of Education Council are and how to participate, so that they can develop their interest.

Question: How welcoming are you of diversity and understanding that there are different demographics existing on the campus indigenous students, queer students, and women students as well?

An interview with Aman @EducationCouncil The Editorial Committee

I respect all the students, religions, and communities; I personally love to be in a diverse group. Because it gives an opportunity for people to meet and learn about different kind of cultures and views. Also, it (this approach of hanging out with a diverse group) develops unity among students. If two people have different ideas, definitely there might be different views, but they all study under the same roof in this college. They have to respect all the students, from different backgrounds and cultures.

Question: What are your expectations with the confluence magazine and how could we support the education council?

I would be ready for any interview or article whatever the confluence wants. If I find something interesting in the meeting, I would be writing an article for the magazine, so that students and other members can know about it, even if I am limited to only writing a general overview of things and not go in depth.

The Editorial Committee Question: Define your purpose and your position?

Question: What are some issues regarding courses or courses that you have noticed?

Basically, it was firstly a personal reason. One of my friends wanted to apply for Post Diploma in Information Technology, but this semester the college discontinued that program. So, I thought maybe if I was in the education council, I could make a change in that and also because there is no program that caters to the students of IT field here; that was the only program that was there. There are no options for people in IT field who want to continue their education here in this college.

I personally feel that the first thing is the irregularity in the courses being offered, for some courses are offered for a particular semester and then, next year those same courses are not offered for some reason.

There are some courses I have access to in this semester, being in my second semester, however there are students in their third or forth semester who do not get access to those same classes in the same session. That's why it sometimes gets trickly for me as well, wondering how I'll plan all of that. For, some of my courses are only being offered exclusively in one particular semester. For example, Accounting 252 is exclusively offered in January, currently the next semester; someone who shows up in January would not

Question: So, what do you know about your position as a member of the education council?

I am one of the four representatives in the council; there are things which student representatives on the council are supposed to do, which includes, mainly, putting the agenda forward -everything related to education. It could be about discussing new programs, adding or eliminating new course options; all related to education only.

18 THECONFLUENCE

An interview with Harkishan @EducationCouncil The Editorial Committee

be able to take that course because there is a prerequisite of Accounting 251, so those sort of things happen. Secondly, another issue would be the length of the classes; I personally feel that they are too long, some even more than 2 or 3 hours, I don't think a student would be able to focus more than 40-50 minutes, I could make recommendations about 5 minute breaks in between, but we've just started; it hasn't been a month since I got selected for the position. I am exploring the things, about what might be in my control and what others issues are there.

Question: There seemingly exists a boundary between domestic and international students, and you are an international student. How would you approach domestic students?

Question: How would you react to pressure and being in a space full of people?

Question: do you think international students get enough representation? or, is there a need for more visiblity?

People say that I fall slightly in the spectrum of introverts, but I disagree. I feel that wherever and whenever I need to speak, I am able to. I am also working with a bank, with my job focusing on customer service. I get to meet a lot of people on daily basis; I think that situation helps my case as it helps in improving confidence and ability to put my voice forward.

Question: How would you deal with disagreements?

Obviously, different people would have different opinions. We need to be very open with the disagreements, because we need to listen to the other person's perspective, have discussions about pros and cons of everything, and ultimately we can reach a conclusion. On the contrary, if I am getting a hard no, there is a chance that I might be disappointed, but I believe I am mature enough to handle rejection. This goes back to the first question; initially I started for a personal reason, for my friend. But, later, I realized that a lot of people are feeling the same thing; that's when I realized it not being only about me but also other people's friends, family, brothers, and sisters. So, I have to look beyond those disagreement.

19 THECONFLUENCE

Most of my friends across classes actually happen to be international students; for some reason, I enjoy interacting with people of different cultures. At the same time, the locals as well, the new people I've met in the city.

There, definitely, are a lot of things which are coming to my mind at this point which can be done to improve my communication and interaction with other students.

I can not complain about that, because I know one other person who is on education council who is also an international student, and both of us are from India. Both of us got elected as students' representatives on education council. Acknowledging the fact that there are only four seats, I wouldn't like to use this word but we have the majority there. What more could I ask for? There are two more seats available, I don't want everyone from my community or my country to be on that position; So, I want other individuals, especially domestic students to be there. It would be great to have domestic students come forward and get elected.

Question: What are your expectations with the confluence magazine and how could we support the education council?

Earlier I had not thought about it; now that you've asked, I'm thinking about the agenda of

An interview with Harkishan @EducationCouncil The Editorial Committee

every meeting and if it could be published in the magazine. Hence, students would at least get to know what us as students' representatives are doing for them. Due to the non disclosure agreement, it can't specifically

be about the agenda of the meeting itself, but in general a topic could be put forward - an overview, which is brief.

The Editorial Committee Question: Introduce your purpose and your position?

My friends call me Fay, but, here in Canada, I'm Ophelia. This is my third time coming back to school. I did my Bachelors in Nursing in the Philippines; I'm a registered nurse there, after that I've worked with Pharma industry in marketing, while being in Business Administration. Now, it's my third time coming back, now pursuing Human Resource Management. I like it here as the passing grade is only 68%; back in Philippines, it is 75%.

Question: Focusing on the election process, how was it winning and how was the campaigning process for you?

I'll start with the campaigning process; it is very political. Why do I say this? My posters got removed, on the very next day from when it was posted - they were gone. I'm the only Filipina that run in the election. There was an investigation and CCTV cameras were checked, at the same time of it being reported to the Student Services. Knowing that person, well not the exact candidate but them being connected to him, it's quite unfortunate that they think that way. When you're running for elections, all you want to do is represent the students in general, irrespective of the culture or who your friends are. There's one thing which is glaring to me - the students' union, we board of governors, well not just us, but everyone is trying to unite not just

20 THECONFLUENCE

international students but also domestic students. However we see a lot of division in cultures: Indian to Indian, and Filipinos to Filipinos; unfortunately that happens here in an international setting.

Question: How do you react to pressure and being in a setting with a lot of people, now that you're on a position in power?

I wouldn't say I'm on a position in power. Yes, we would be voting about certain decisions made on campus, but I see it as being an employee of the students. You have to know what are the needs and rights of all the students - international as well as domestic.

Basically, this will sound cliché, but I have to really be the voice of the students in the board meeting. That's why I go and talk to people, I have to know what are the thoughts of others before going in that room, because if I go there, I will get bullied for sure; they're all more intelligent and experienced than me. It's my first time on a board, but I have to know about the issues, the budget, or the priority of the students, and the game. That's why I talk to students, and the students' union, because I know you guys can help with that.

An interview with Ophelia @BoardOfGovernors The Editorial Committee

Question: How do you deal with disagreements or non favorable outcomes?

You have to fight a battle, as much as you could, but if you lose, don't be a sore loser. You have to think the way they think, think from their perspective. Else, there would be no growth. If you keep pushing your perspective, assuming you're right, what if you're not? you'll be stuck and frustrated.

Question: What are some concerns you've noticed on campus with your now position as the Board of Governors?

The first is communication; students have their own concerns but they won't communicate. How would the board of governors, or even the management, know if they don't speak. There always is an avenue to communicate; we have women-to-women, ask away, or other avenues.

Secondly, all the international students have this issue - the tuition fee. We are killing ourselves working two or three jobs just to make ends meet. Only some are lucky, on the safe side, whose parents are paying their tuitions, but the others are not. The expenses here are too much as compared to our old countries. Even a little help from the government or the management would be a big help for us.

Third, we always push for diversity, but it's diversity but not unity; we have diversity but are we really united? They're not really looking at us because we're not united.

There's domestics, indians, nigerians, filipinos, but as students we're not united. We need leaders.

Question: With regards to you mentioning diversity, there also exists indigenous students. How would you approach them?

21 THECONFLUENCE

As we can see, they have a barrier; they are very protective of themselves and their culture; however, it has to be a two way thing.

For us to know them, they have to lower their barriers as well. What we can do and control is to learn their values, learn about their culture, and be engaging. When did you last go to ARK? For me, I signed up for the coffee even though I don't enjoy it; I just go there to know the culture. We are not in our countries anymore; we are here and have to know their values.

Question: Given your authority, you can not influence this matter much; however, what is your opinion about security on campus?

I do see it as an issue, not as glaring as the other issues I mentioned. We do have cameras, security, students' union, student services - they can protect the students in terms of their harassment issues. I will say that I do not have a first hand issue; however, last term my friend faced an issue, about a comment which is very offensive for a girl to hear. I delt with it on my own, had a friend get involved. The person who did it was connected to another guy; we warned him that if they did it again, there will a complaint. However, if there are any more complaints, they should share with me or the women students' representative.

Question: What are your expectations with the confluence magazine and how could we support the Board of Governors?

Create a noise, we need that! As of now, the final budget's deadline would be March or April, so if you can create a noise starting from now. We can not really focus on all of the

An interview with Ophelia @BoardOfGovernors The Editorial Committee

problems, we have to choose; just choosing two would be good to start and bombard on, so that they can hear it. Meanwhile, as a students' representative on board, I will for sure do my part, and bring attention to it.

I'll be here for a podcast if that is what you want; I'll be honest. I'll take the magazine up and tell them that this is what students want

The Editorial Committee Question: Introduce your purpose and your position?

My name is Mohammed Maneer, and I come from Punjab. I belong to Mohali; it's in Punjab.

I came here last December. Surviving!

Question: So far, How has Board of Governors been?

It's been good so far. I have just been in one meeting; my position accounts for talking about funds, and how students are paying more. For example, there are so many things with the international students, as we all belong to middle class families - 40 or 50 dollars mean a lot to me; we were only allowed to work 20 hours. Now, it is changing and we can work more now.

Question: What are your responsibilities toward domestic students?

My responsibilities toward every student are that I will listen to them. Whenever I come to college, I meet so many students; they tell me their problems and how I can represent their problems in front of board. If, to say, they are charged 100 dollars more, we can say that this is not compulsory; teachers can work half an hour less to decrease that amount. We are told to pay for subscriptions which are not compulsory just for 5% marks in a course. I don't think it is okay, if a teacher can alter half an hour of work, it could be deducted from the course.

22 THECONFLUENCE

Question: Do you have any general plans which you want to implement, which are not related to finances?

I will go with what the students tell me; I will implement that.

Question: How would you implement that knowing that it's a voting process and you only get to put so much on the table?

Our work is to represent our body, our board, it is up to the board. Our work is to present our feelings in front of them and how the students feel, and how they can bid their customers because we are customers of the college.

Question: How much do you understand about your role as a Board of Governors?

My role is that I have to sit for the meetings, to represent my feelings; my feelings are feelings of every student, because I meet the students and they tell us their problems. I'll represent everything in front of the college and the board members.

Question: How do you deal with disagreements or non favorable outcomes?

If it is compulsory for the students, and they

An interview with Mohammed @BoardOfGovernors The Editorial Committee

want that, I can tell that. Maybe they can change their policy; they will or they will not. I will talk to them in a friendly way, which is the main thing.

Question: An issue which isn't related to finances would be, per say, safety on campus; what are your views on that?

Question: Even when going through with that, you would have to show some facts and figure, where would those figures come from?

Yeah, I would have to mention all of my concerns; I'd have to stand for students. The analysis would come from each and every student who knows me.

Question: Does that the poll, for you, would be limited to people who interact with you?

No, it's not like that. It would be everyone as they know me. I won the position for that; every student can come to me and I will go to them to ask what are their problems. Every student voted for us.

Question: What are some concerns you've noticed on campus with your now position as the Board of Governors?

Most of the students, as I told you earlier, say that they don't want to pay, but they have to.

There are a lot of websites, for example, in my law course or my commerce course, which aren't compulsory. We have to pay $120 (CAD) for each thing, and I think you're both new here but I've been here for a year; I know what we face and what we pay more. There are the things we can decrease.

Question: That is one of few, yes, what would be the other concerns that you've noticed; what is Board of Governors beyond finances?

The people who don't have cars have to pay for parking, the parking maintenance. That is not fair. Opposite to that, the students who have cars - I have a car - they have to take the student passes for the buses, which isn't compulsory; it's worth $50 and I don't even need that, because I use my own car.

23 THECONFLUENCE

I have not seen any issues myself; you can give me information about what are the issues.

Question: How do you deal with pressure?

I never feel the pressure. If I ever felt the pressure, I wouldn't be speaking anything. A leader should be free-minded; he should speak everything in the meeting in front of the board members. This is the second thing, It's my second time meeting you (referencing to interviewers), and my first meeting you (referencing to interviewers); a leader should have confidence, and if they don't, they'd lose.

Question: What are your expectations with the confluence magazine and how could we support the Board of Governors?

I have to collaborate with you. As you are new students, you would face a lot of problems; I don't have any problem if you call me 12 at night. How ever you want to be in contact with me, you can be. If anyone has a problem, they should come to me, I'm there for them.

An interview with Mohammed @BoardOfGovernors The Editorial Committee

Chapter 1: Being Late Harpreet Singh

A Tale Too Practical

Ticking of the alarm woke him up - he would have been dead if his mom saw him sleeping, because he was already 15 minutes late. He packed his backpack, skipped both shower and breakfast, rushing towards his school bus.

Back then, he was in second grade and had a bad sleeping habit; when he finally got on the bus, his friends started clapped, for he was late again. It seemed like a daily occurrence at this point. He felt embarrassed but what could he do but apologize, alas he was among his friends - "Come on, it happens to everyone" that was an encouraging phrase for him. As they went ahead singing their favorite song in the bus, suddenly the bus stopped at The Wall Ino town which was next to his village.

A brown girl, with cheeks of marshmallow tone, entered their bus; time appeared to have stopped for him at that moment. He said while gazing at her "she was like an angel from the heavens" while she came towards the next seat to him. But, he had to be a gentleman in front of the girl; he stood up and said to his friends "Yo We have to do some studies man, and not waste time on singing songs". The girl laughed at his speech of honor. His friends: Jashan, Sunny, Rana, Prabh and Raja, who were younger than him, had no idea of what he was talking about. It took them a while to understand what was happening, but what did they do when they understood it? Clapped for him in front of Rian. Later they reached our school - DIPS; the slogan among students was "Dips on everybody's lips". The authorities had been disappointed so much and were trying to find the creator of this weird slogan.

Blessings, he was in a different branch of DIPS, named GB - was quite a good name according to reputation. His friends were in a different class due to the age difference. He had to enter to his own class, Grade 2, and his aura changed completely, for he knew he was not going to survive in this school. A victim of a negative self image at a young age, wonder why? When he entered the class, another kid named Jashan, different from the friend he mentioned earlier, made fun of him. He wanted to cry; he was about to cry. But to his surprise the same girl, Rian, entered their class and his heart skips a beat. Suddenly all thoughts escaped, a child's mind, it veers into different thoughts so easily - reacting to this story from his childhood playing in his head.

He remembers asking to himself "Is she in the same class as me?” She came and sat down next to him. The bell rang for the first lecture, and his favorite teachers, Iqbal and Seema, introduced a new face.

Without realizing what he was doing, he introduced himself to Rian in front of the whole class in the same fashion she had done.

Rian smiled, while everyone else giggled. He remembered packing his bag and trying to rush out of class, but then Rian's and his head collided with each other in the rush.

Embarrassed, he said sorry several times front of her; she said it's ok, but he was in a deep worry that he hurt her. The next morning, he bought her chocolate as an apology. But she didn't take it and his friends got a chance to eat it and they all rushed towards him. The great thing was that he wasn't late to class, thanks to her whose dreams woke him up.

THECONFLUENCE 25

As dumb as it sounds now, he thought to himself back then that she is the one destined for her; it was destiny that that he met her. For a total of 4 years at GB, he waited - waited to say the words that he like her. How much would it take for someone to bring that courage forward? Just when he finally felt ready, he heard that Rian was transferring to DIPS. He was in a real shock, similar to when he first saw her; however, the emotion he was feeling at that time was entirely different from that day 4 years ago. Just like that, the heroine of our story went to DIPS. A couple months of devastation passed by for our hero. She was a senior at DIBS now.

A child's mind yet again, now, he was thinking it will be impossible to be with her. He started being late to school everyday, feeling heartless and falling into his old routine; he tried to go out with other girls but no luck. At this point of narration, he was in 6th grade. Many of friends already had left the school, however he still had some by his side: Gaurav, Jashan, Love and Ranjeet - his power crew. However, with time, they also went away. He had so little but school to focus on now; to even his surprise, he found himself studying much more and scoring better and better. One thing, however, that he didn't know was that a surprise was waiting for him.

Short Form Content Reine Yurkowski

A Trojan To Idiocracy

Many consider SFC (Short Form Content) to be the opus of modern content. Many think the content offered in SFC is “more digestible” and is easier to consume compared to longer content, getting the idea across just as effectively as long form content (LFC). Most people also consider the content one watches to have no impact on one outside of experience itself.

To understand what SFC is, we need to begin with what “content” even is. SFC is generally content under 1000 words, a video less than about 60 seconds, a “radio edit” of a song (the song being edited down to about 2:30-3:30 in length), or lastly, an album of less than 12 songs, often considered to be an EP (extended play). There’s a common trend where people will not put as much effort into something

26 THECONFLUENCE

small, as comparing to something “big”. Being confined to a small footprint, it’s an inherent restriction with the format. And with less information being included, how can you either explore an idea thoroughly to the user, or connect larger ideas together within said content without overburdening previous content? With this in mind, we should consciously connect the content of any SFC to be closer to an abstract instead of the content in aforementioned abstract. With said content being unable to be as informationally dense, it’s nearly impossible to cite your sources in a video without linking to something external, which is often never done; And because there’s a lower expectation or precedent to cite sources, there is less emphasis on making sure your content is accurate or reliable, meaning a larger opportunity for misinformation or even

fraudulent claims to be made. Because this content is so diluted under the ‘guise of entertainment, said SFC can’t be used past referencing a concept, let alone an idea. But the content being short making it much easier for you to consume bad content, because it’s much easier for the content to be disregarded if it is wrong.

Because the SFC can be consumed so quickly in comparison to a longer piece of content, in effectively forms a natural “skinner box” of content cycling, where each content that either validates your internal logic without substantiating the claims made. This is terrible issue for the perpetuation of invalid or wrong ideas, and the creator of said ideas. Look at many modern things people consider to be gospel when it’s completely wrong, because people have not bothered to qualify said claims. Some of which can be easily invalidated by considering them for just a few moments. A common claim being perpetuated by sudo intellectuals which is that humans “only use 10% of their brain”. This idea likely comes from the idea point of humans generally only use 10% of their brain at a time, instead of just 10% overall. But the issue is that once you understand that the brain is much more then just conscious thinking, such as reflexes, memories, motor function, pattern recognition, and so many other effectively automated processes, it becomes laughable to think that only 10% of ones brain is ever used at any one time. But because this content comes and goes in a flash, it causes an almost temporary aphasia due to the content not being able to be digested or questioned before said idea is thrown away, and another one is quickly dragged in, effectively making you unable to properly respond or argue the content you’re presented with.

Even if one were to make the argument that somehow SFC in video or written form can be

just as dense as longer form content, you have to consider the idea of sonic exploration. A popular musician “deadmau5” who made the album “while(1<2)”, a 2 disc 27 song electronic symphony of what many consider to be deadmau5’s magnum opus. In the first song (1.1) of the album “Avaritia” at 1:00-1:28, there’s a melody played that is extremely iconic to the album, to the point many consider it to be the “soul” of the album. It’s used multiple times in not just Avaritia, but in song 1.10 “Gula” at 3:23 more or less copy paste. With iterations of it appearing through the album, such as the main droning tone of the melody being both the intro and outro of 2.14 “Coolacanth II” and others. This type of contextual melodic exploration would not be possible on an EP. As the limiting number of songs makes it nearly impossible to revisit ideas and not be a commercial flop, Nor can the short playtime of a radio edit. If you were to take the 4 best songs of the album out of context and force them into an EP, the identity and context of the songs would be lost, and would from an emotional, and explorative point of view be objectively worse to even a deaf chimp.

Despite these reasons, and many more not listed, SFC is somehow considered just as valid and informative to longer content, despite lacking the content to support anything except the simplest of ideas. Which will eventually lead to the perpetuation of a society that doesn’t question what they’re presented with, perpetuates wrong ideas, and leads to decisions made with ones pathos or perceived ethos, over ones logos. Making the SFC a Trojan to idiocracy.

References are available on request for this or any piece of work submitted to and published through The Confluence.

THECONFLUENCE 27

The students with an off-campus work authorization on their study permit, now, are allowed to work beyond the limit of 20 hours which have been in effect since years. Would this be a step that helps the students or an action which leads to the authorities finding reasons to increase the tuition?

An International Student's Perspective Lack of Hope Most if not all

The Voice of Students, An Anonymous Blog

I am an international student; it is a reality that I'm exposed to every time I have to look at my bank account, being well aware of the fact that paying a lot more than domestic students is part of our job as a student; however, it's beyond 1300 CAD per course at present, with expectations of it being unexpectedly increased at any given point in time.

Even though I am allowed to work more than 20 hours, do they actually expect me to do that? I still have to study, to manage my tuition each semester, and to remain emotionally sane in a place away from home.

There have been weeks where I've seen people not even work for an hour just due to the sheer amount of stress international students go through and the college turning a blind eye to it.

The campaign which took place in the gathering place - Fairness for International Students - informed me about another piece in this puzzle which I wish to forget about every single day: the college has a 2% cap on tuition increases for domestic students, while there is none in practice for international students. Just tell me what I should do with tuition being increased each year? It is a feeling which keeps surfacing alongside pain.

28 THECONFLUENCE

For International Fairness Students

"Inflated and predatory tuition fees" is how BC Federation of Students would phrase the situation. In BC and most of Canada, international tuition fees are unregulated and can increase at any time, with no notice.

Domestic student tuition fee increases are capped at 2% annually under the BC government’s Tuition Fee Limit Policy.

Meanwhile, tuition fees for international students in BC are not covered in this policy and have increased by 64% since 2006 and by 594% since 1991.

Students are encouraged to sign the petition for a tuition fee cap for international students and support the international students. It's time for Fairness for International Students.

Follow Our Instagram

CNC Pride Club's Pride Scavenger Hunt Look for the knowledge caches around campus starting 21st November Grab a copy of the Scavenger Hunt Form starting the same date at the CNC Students' Union office.

Your early leads to victory?

Go around campus and look for very specific posters.

Stay tuned in for the Pride Casual Conversations event.

Can you find the treasure?

Know Your Representative To Understand Them Better Garry Singh

Editor-in-Chief, CNC Students' Union

If there is one thing I've noticed in my time at the Students' Union office, it is that the representatives are as human as we all are. In the ordeal of going through college and conquering life with big dreams, the fun bits of their story end up surprising many.

Scene. I was in the office, having a conversation with my supervisor, Damon Robinson, about being new to the team and understanding my purpose. His response was one which most people wouldn't be surprised by - "Just be yourself, we all are similar in this room; too empathetic and kind, we go out of our way for others".

Unsure of how conversation ended up at Gulshan however it did. From that conversation about him, and my time with him in the office after that, I've gotten to understand one thing - funny enough, first impressions can be wrong. I expected Gulshan to be the serious and always level headed kind, however his funny and caring side is the one which most people overlook, for his appeal is mostly justified by his dedication towards work. Yet again, a combination ideal for the ones standing as role models for the students.

Gulshan Singh CCE Representative, CNC Students' Union

My name is Gulshan Singh, I am representing the students who are in the Community and Continuing Education at CNCSU. My high school experience, or one could say schooling experience in general, was limited to one of the local schools; it never bothered me much up until that point in time. My first taste of the city life was when I got into college to complete my graduation.

It was a great experience - I learnt a lot, hanged out with my friends, and was satisfied with whatever was going on in my life. Then, I started wanting change and decided to make things difficult for myself; a plan to pursue higher education in Canada started.

I landed in Prince George in December 2021. The first things which caught me off guard was how people were surviving here in that cold weather.

THECONFLUENCE 30

I kept thinking that the low temperature would result in my bones freezing up, but, thankfully, I am still alive and doing my best.

I would classify myself as a victim of the Covid19 era, because it ruined my orientation at the college. Well, technically I did get a chance to attend an online orientation, which was nothing more than a YouTube video.

Furthermore, the college did not welcome us properly due to all the precautions and security measures in effect at that time; a lovely start.

One of the first few people who I had a welcoming experience with was Damon; we met when I went to the Union's office to get my U-pass from him, which was also my first interaction with the Students' Union.

Who knew that I would become part of this organization one day? You might have heard the quote “you become like the people you hand around”. These words have so much meaning to me, for it reminds me of my friends here at the College of New Caledonia and how they always are there to support me. I believe that it is because of them that I won the election for the representative position.

Being a part of the student union, I always try to encourage students to have fun and be excited about life; I believe that life is an opportunity itself - a golden one on top of that.

I've organized some movie nights in the past, and students enjoyed it. Moreover, I sit on the student complaint resolution committee and also am the secretary-treasurer for the CNCSU. That is all I have in mind right now, but I will be very happy to answer any questions you have; just come and talk to me if you see me in the office or around.

31 THECONFLUENCE

A Column For Ask Darian!!

Your Questions Darian Meesto

Editorial Committee, Indigenous Students' Representative CNC Students' Union

Question: I am having issues with my course load - it's a lot of pressure. How should I manage this stress?

Reset your priorities. Be brutally honest about what is distracting you from your studies.

Write down a list of things you know will help you succeed in your studies. And then, attack the list.

Question: I am close friends with someone and I want to ask them out on a date, but the thing is that I am pretty scared to do so. How can I get the courage to take that leap?

We're adults; you can be mature about it and tell them "you know, I feel attracted to you because I like how we can vibe together". Tell them that. People like Confidence and honesty Question: What's something new to try in PG? I want to do something exciting but also on the safer side.

Go to the ancient rain forest, purden lake, or if you don't have a vehicle; go to the cut banks walk up the hill take a selfie, then run down.

Lol Question: I'm an international student and communicating with people has been hard; moreover, I'm missing my friends back home.

How do I deal with this?

Join little groups, like a club or something, or form a study group. You will have to create your own family and friends. There's no option. If you have people you get along with in class form a group chat and get together for some studying and food.

Ask Darian any questions, sarcastic or serious, by sending them to Indigenous@cncsu.ca

AGM

Annual General Meeting

November 29th, 2022 11:30am-1:30pm CNC Prince George Campus 1-306 (Lecture Theatre) Refreshments and Food Provided

TOPICS: Yearly Representative Reports Financial Report ALL CNCSU MEMBERS INVITED